Bürkert Fluid Control Systems has developed a compact system solution, based upon an innovative multi-functional block design.

The concept integrates several Type 2000 INOX 2/2-way seat valves plus associated ancillaries, on a multi-functional block, with space saving and flexible internal gallery layout possibilities.

In the first process phase, air is removed from the chamber and also crucially within and around the objects to be sterilized: in this instance, items of a porous nature, typically surgical garments and dressings.

After checking to make sure the chamber door seal is air-tight, the Type 2000 INOX valves open to allow the connected vacuum pump to evacuate the air from the chamber.

Shortly afterwards they close, and steam is introduced by means of the top block and the pressure in the chamber returns to atmospheric pressures.

This "saw-tooth" process is repeated several times, with the pressure in the chamber typically pulsating between 250-300 mbar absolute and atmospheric pressures.

This facilitates the release of trapped air bubbles in the porous textile surfaces, between the items to be sterilized and from the far corners of the chamber.

The chamber or connected elements may not be completely free of leak potentials, and thus it is possible that air can be drawn into the chamber by the very phases designed to remove it.

The Type 2000 INOX valves on the block remain closed to keep the steam trapped inside the chamber.

The Type 2000 INOX valves remain closed and help maintain the temperature in the chamber for a period of three to four minutes.

During the drying phase a low-flow Type 2000 INOX valve opens and shortly afterwards is joined by a full-flow valve in parallel, for a first gradual and then faster evacuation of the chamber.

This is to evaporate off and hence dry the sterilized objects, by reducing the pressure in the chamber to below the vaporization point of any condensate present.

After completion of the drying process the valves on the block close to allow the pressure in the sterilization chamber to return to the normal level by the introduction of ambient air to the chamber.

The sterilization process is then complete and the chamber door can be opened.