How Industrial Autoclaves Work
Industrial autoclaves facilitate high temperatures and pressures for various processes in many industries. The internal chambers of the autoclaves are designed to be cylindrical, as this type of design facilitates a more stable high-pressure environment. Autoclaves are frequently used for sterilizing infectious waste but can also be used to cure and strengthen composite parts that must withstand harsh environments and/or heavy use. Depending on the specific machine and application, autoclaves use either steam or electric heat. Wet steam is created by utilizing a boiler, while dry steam is generated with the use of a heat exchanger. Some autoclaves rely on electric heat rather than steam heat, and in these cases, the autoclave is heated using electric coils.