Hot air sterilizer

Introduction

A hot air sterilizer is a sterilization equipment that uses the dry heat, in the form of the hot air, for the sterilization of the instruments and the other items, and it is used in the hospitals, the laboratories, the pharmaceutical, and the many other applications. The hot air sterilizer consists of an insulated chamber, the heating elements, a fan for the air circulation, a temperature control system, and the shelves, and it sterilizes the items by the exposure to the hot air at the high temperatures, such as 160 to 180 degrees Celsius, for the specified time, which denatures and oxidizes the proteins of the microorganisms, and it provides the dry and the sterile items; the hot air sterilizer is used for the sterilization of the glassware, the metal instruments, the powders, the oils, and the other items that are not suitable for the steam sterilization, for the sterilization of the laboratory equipment, for the depyrogenation, and for many other applications, and it provides features such as the digital temperature control, the programmable cycles, and the safety interlocks; the hot air sterilizer is available in various sizes, from the bench-top models to the large models, and it is an essential equipment for the dry heat sterilization. Hot air sterilizers are used in the hospitals, in the laboratories, in the pharmaceutical industry, in the research institutions, and for many other applications. With their dry heat, hot air sterilizers are essential for the sterilization of the heat-resistant items.

Hot Air Sterilizer LHAS-T2012

Hot Air Sterilizer features storage capacity of 252L for flexible applications. Durable stainless-steel interior featuring removable and easy-to-clean shelves. Supports adjustable temper...

Send Inquiry View more

Hot Air Sterilizer LHAS-T2011

Hot Air Sterilizer features stainless steel chamber with storage capacity of 138L. Forced air convection ensures consistent airflow and excellent temperature uniformity throughout the ch...

Send Inquiry View more

Hot Air Sterilizer LHAS-T2010

Hot Air Sterilizer operates within a temperature range of RT+10 to 250℃. Transparent window made of tempered glass allows easy observation without disturbing inner environment. Equipped...

Send Inquiry View more

Standards

IEC 61010-2-040:2020-Particular requirements for sterilizers and washer-disinfectors used to treat medical materials

ISO 17665-1:2006-Sterilization of health-care products-Moist heat-Part 1: Requirements for the development, validation and routine control of a sterilization process for medical devices

Complies with the above standards, but is not limited to them.

Features

1. Hot air sterilizer (dry heat oven) for sterilization of heat-stable items using hot dry air.

2. Precision temperature-controlled oven for dry heat sterilization at 160-180 degrees C.

3. Suitable for clinical, dental, veterinary, laboratory, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and industrial settings.

4. Includes heating chamber, temperature controller, timer, shelves, safety thermostat and operation manual.

5. Supports dry heat sterilization of glassware, instruments, metal tools, powders and heat-stable materials.

FAQ

Q1: What testing scenarios is this sterilizer mainly applied to?

A: The hot air sterilizer (dry heat sterilizing oven) is used in clinical laboratories, dental clinics, veterinary practices, hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturing, cosmetics, research laboratories, and industrial settings to sterilize heat-stable items using hot dry air at high temperatures (typically 160 degrees C for 120 minutes or 170-180 degrees C for 30-60 minutes), providing sterilization without moisture for items that cannot be autoclaved (moisture-sensitive, heat-stable items). It supports glassware sterilization (pipettes, Petri dishes, flasks, test tubes, bottles, glass beads - dry heat prevents water spots and is ideal for glassware), metal instruments (surgical instruments, dental tools, scissors, forceps, scalpels - dry heat does not cause rust/corrosion (unlike steam autoclaving which can corrode carbon steel instruments)), powders and oils (talcum powder, zinc oxide, petroleum jelly, oils, fats, waxes - these cannot be autoclaved (moisture causes degradation, oils are impermeable to steam); dry heat is the method of choice), heat-stable materials (glass, metal, ceramic, porcelain, certain plastics (PTFE, silicone - verify heat resistance)), and laboratory/hospital sterilization of moisture-sensitive items (where autoclave steam would damage the item or affect its properties).

Q2: What standards does the sterilizer comply with?

A: The hot air sterilizer follows relevant ISO, ASTM, EN and GB/T standards including ISO 17665 (sterilization of health care products by moist heat - related, not dry heat), ISO 20857 (sterilization of health care products - dry heat), ASTM E1008 (standard specification for laboratory ovens), EN 1528 (sterilizers for medical use - related), and GB/T standards for dry heat sterilizers (YY/T 0158, GB 15981 (disinfection and sterilization)). The hardware complies with IEC 61010 safety standards and applicable pressure vessel/electrical safety standards. For clinical/medical use, follow applicable medical device regulations (FDA, CE, NMPA). Sterilization efficacy should be verified with biological indicators (Bacillus atrophaeus spores - the standard biological indicator for dry heat sterilization; Geobacillus stearothermophilus is for steam autoclaves, NOT for dry heat). Calibration should use certified temperature sensors traceable to national standards.

Q3: What is the warranty period for the whole sterilizer and key components?

A: The whole hot air sterilizer is covered by a 12-month warranty. The heating chamber, heating elements, temperature controller, timer, shelves, safety thermostat and housing are covered, while shelves, door seals/gaskets, heating elements (wear parts), temperature sensors, and fuses are consumables or accessories. Damage from improper use, overheating, spillage (corrosive materials), heating element burnout, or unauthorized repair is excluded. Extended warranty may be available. Heating elements may have separate lifespan (typically 5000-10000 hours depending on usage and temperature).

Q4: Is this device difficult to operate? Is professional training required?

A: Operation is relatively simple for basic use (set temperature, set time, load items, start). No professional training is required for basic operation, but for sterilization efficacy and safety, users should understand sterilization principles (dry heat vs moist heat, time-temperature relationship, load preparation), proper loading, and safety procedures (high temperature burn hazard). We provide operation manuals and training. Proper load preparation (clean items first (sterilization does not clean - organic material (blood, tissue, debris) insulates microorganisms and prevents sterilization; clean and dry items thoroughly before sterilization; dry heat requires items to be dry (moisture causes temperature variations and can damage items)), wrap items (use heat-stable wrapping (paper, aluminum foil, glassine, muslin - do not use plastic (melts) or materials that cannot withstand 180 degrees C); wrap individually or in small packs; allow air circulation around items), loading (do not overload - leave space between items for hot air circulation (hot air sterilization relies on convection; blocked airflow causes cold spots and incomplete sterilization); do not block air vents/fans; place items on shelves (not on chamber floor); do not touch chamber walls), sterilization parameters (temperature: 160 degrees C for 120 minutes (standard), 170 degrees C for 60 minutes, 180 degrees C for 30 minutes (faster but higher temperature may damage some items; follow standard or validated cycle; time starts when chamber reaches set temperature (not when unit is turned on)), post-cycle handling (allow to cool before opening (chamber and items are very hot (160-180 degrees C); wait until temperature drops below 80 degrees C before opening; use heat-resistant gloves; do not remove hot items (can cause burns and thermal shock to glass (hot glass can break if exposed to cold air or cold surfaces)), quality control (biological indicator (Bacillus atrophaeus) per batch or per week (verify sterilization efficacy; place BI in most challenging location (center of load, wrapped item); if BI grows, sterilization failed - investigate and re-sterilize), chemical indicator (heat-sensitive tape/label - changes color when exposed to sterilization temperature (does NOT verify sterilization efficacy, only that the item was exposed to heat; use as process indicator)), temperature monitoring (record temperature and time per cycle for regulated use)), and safety (high temperature (160-180 degrees C - burn hazard; use PPE (heat-resistant gloves, safety glasses); do not touch chamber walls or items with bare hands; allow proper cooling; flammable materials (paper, plastic, volatile chemicals) can ignite at high temperatures - do not sterilize flammable or heat-sensitive items; do not overload; ensure door seal is intact; do not leave unattended during operation; emergency stop/off switch accessible) are important for safe, effective dry heat sterilization.

Q5: What is the typical lead-time for order delivery?

A: Standard models require 7-30 working days. In-stock units can ship within 3-7 working days. Custom configurations or large built-to-order systems may require additional time, and we confirm the exact schedule before order confirmation.

Q6: Is regular calibration required? What is the recommended calibration cycle?

A: Temperature calibration recommended every 6-12 months using certified RTD/thermocouple (verify at multiple points (120, 160, 180 degrees C); verify temperature uniformity across chamber (multiple locations - corners, center, shelves; hot spots/cold spots indicate airflow issues or heating element problems)). Timer accuracy verification every 6-12 months. Safety thermostat verification (over-temperature protection) every 6-12 months (verify it cuts power at set over-temperature limit). Routine temperature verification before each use or per day (for critical sterilization). Full sterilizer performance verification annually (temperature accuracy, uniformity, heat-up time, sterilization efficacy with biological indicator). For clinical/medical use, follow applicable quality management (CLIA, CAP, ISO 13485) calibration schedules and maintain records (sterilization logs, calibration certificates, biological indicator results).

Q7: Are supporting consumables universal?

A: Biological indicators (Bacillus atrophaeus spore strips or ampoules - for dry heat sterilization verification; NOT Geobacillus stearothermophilus (that is for steam autoclaves)), chemical indicators (heat-sensitive tape, labels, strips - process indicators), wrapping materials (sterilization paper, aluminum foil, glassine, muslin - heat-stable, breathable), shelves (additional/replacement), door seals/gaskets, heating elements (replacement), temperature sensors, cleaning supplies (mild detergent, stainless steel cleaner), and fuses are available from laboratory/medical suppliers, though some parts (heating elements, seals, sensors) may be sterilizer-specific. Long-term consumable cost includes biological indicators (per test - moderate cost), wrapping materials (per load - low cost), and occasional heating element replacement.

Q8: Can I customize parameters or supporting accessories?

A: Customization includes chamber capacity (small benchtop (10-50 L), medium (50-200 L), large (200-1000+ L) for industrial/hospital use), temperature range (ambient to 250/300 degrees C - standard sterilization at 160-180; higher temperature for specialized applications), temperature uniformity (+/- 2 to +/- 5 degrees C - better uniformity for critical sterilization), control type (analog (dial thermostat, timer), digital (PID controller, digital display, programmable cycles, data logging)), airflow (natural convection (gravity) or forced convection (fan - better temperature uniformity and faster heat-up; forced convection is preferred for sterilization)), safety features (over-temperature protection (safety thermostat), door interlock (optional), timer with auto-shutoff, audible alarm, emergency stop), construction (stainless steel chamber (304 or 316L), powder-coated steel exterior, insulated walls (reduces heat loss and exterior temperature), casters (for larger units), GMP-compliant (sanitary design, documentation, IQ/OQ), explosion-proof (for hazardous areas - rare for sterilizers)), language and accessories. Additional shelves, wrapping materials, biological indicators and accessories can be ordered separately.

Q9: Does the purchase include on-site installation and commissioning service?

A: Standard delivery includes the hot air sterilizer, shelves, power cord and instruction manual. On-site installation is not required for benchtop units (just place on stable surface, plug in). For large/floor-standing units, on-site installation and training are not included for standard orders but can be arranged at additional cost (recommended for GMP/regulated environments). Remote guidance is provided.

Q10: What types of items are compatible with this equipment?

A: The hot air sterilizer sterilizes heat-stable, moisture-stable items including glassware (pipettes (can be sterilized in metal cans or wrapped in paper/stainless steel pipette cans), Petri dishes, flasks (Erlenmeyer, volumetric), test tubes, culture tubes, bottles, vials, glass beads, microscope slides (some), glass rods, spreaders - dry heat is ideal for glassware (no water spots, no corrosion, glass can withstand high temperatures; wrap or place in containers to prevent dust contamination after sterilization)), metal instruments (surgical instruments (scalpels, scissors, forceps, hemostats, retractors), dental instruments (drills, burs, mirrors, explorers, scalers), veterinary instruments, laboratory tools (scalpels, scissors, forceps, inoculating loops (though loops are usually flamed), metal spatulas, dissecting tools - dry heat does not cause rust or corrosion (unlike steam autoclaving which can corrode carbon steel instruments; stainless steel is fine in both, but carbon steel instruments should be dry heat sterilized or oiled before autoclaving; ensure instruments are clean and dry before sterilization; lubricate moving joints after sterilization (instrument milk/mineral oil) to maintain function)), powders and oils (talcum powder, zinc oxide powder, boric acid, sulfur powder, petroleum jelly, paraffin wax, mineral oil, vegetable oils, lanolin, glycerin (glycerol - can be sterilized by dry heat (160 degrees C for 1 hour); these items CANNOT be autoclaved (moisture causes degradation, hydrolysis, or contamination; oils and waxes are impermeable to steam (steam cannot penetrate oil, so autoclaving is ineffective); dry heat penetrates oils by conduction (requires longer time for large volumes; ensure oil depth is not too great (typically < 2-3 cm for adequate heat penetration); stir or use shallow containers for better heat transfer; note: some oils can oxidize at high temperatures (use validated cycle, avoid excessive temperature/time)), heat-stable materials (ceramic (porcelain, crucibles, dishes), porcelain (evaporating dishes, crucibles), metal (stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper - verify heat resistance), glass (borosilicate (Pyrex/Kimax - heat-resistant; soda-lime glass may break at high temperatures or thermal shock - use borosilicate), certain plastics (PTFE/Teflon (can withstand 260 degrees C), silicone (can withstand 200-250 degrees C), polyimide (Kapton - can withstand 300+ degrees C); MOST plastics CANNOT be dry heat sterilized (PE, PP, PS, PVC, PC, acrylic melt or degrade at 160-180 degrees C - verify plastic heat resistance before sterilizing; when in doubt, do not use dry heat for plastics)), and other items (glass syringes (all-glass, not plastic), metal syringes, reusable needles (stainless steel), rubber items (some rubber can withstand 160 degrees C (butyl rubber, silicone rubber; natural rubber, latex degrade at high temperatures - verify; rubber is generally better autoclaved), and heat-stable laboratory consumables). IMPORTANT: Dry heat sterilization vs autoclave (steam): (1) Dry heat uses hot air (no moisture), requires higher temperature (160-180 degrees C) and longer time (30-120 minutes) than autoclave (121 degrees C, 15-30 minutes) because dry heat is less efficient at killing microorganisms (protein denaturation requires higher temperature without moisture; microorganisms are more resistant to dry heat). (2) Dry heat is the method of choice for: moisture-sensitive items (powders, oils, fats, waxes - moisture degrades them), items that can rust/corrode (carbon steel instruments - steam causes rust), glassware (no water spots, dry immediately), items that must remain dry (anhydrous chemicals, dry powders). (3) Autoclave (steam) is preferred for: most laboratory media (agar, broth - steam is required for proper dissolution and sterilization), heat- and moisture-stable items (most surgical instruments (stainless steel), glassware, plastic (autoclavable PP/PC), rubber, textiles (lab coats, towels), biohazard waste (steam decontamination); steam is faster and more effective at killing microorganisms (including spores) at lower temperature. (4) NEVER use dry heat for: heat-sensitive items (most plastics, rubber (some), paper (can ignite at high temperatures if in direct contact with heating element or if overloaded - paper wrapping is OK as long as it does not touch chamber walls and temperature is controlled (160-180 degrees C is below paper ignition temperature (~233 degrees C), but direct contact with heating element can ignite paper), volatile/flammable chemicals (alcohol, ether, acetone, solvents - explosion/fire hazard), aqueous solutions (media, buffers - dry heat causes evaporation and concentration changes, not effective sterilization; use autoclave or filtration), items with residual organic material (must be clean before sterilization). Biological indicator for dry heat: Bacillus atrophaeus (formerly Bacillus subtilis var. niger) spores - these are the standard BI for dry heat sterilization (more resistant to dry heat than Geobacillus stearothermophilus (which is for steam); DO NOT use G. stearothermophilus for dry heat (it will be killed too easily and does not verify dry heat efficacy); use B. atrophaeus spore strips or ampoules, place in most challenging location (center of load, inside wrapped item), incubate after cycle per manufacturer instructions (typically 37 degrees C for 7 days, or use rapid readout BI (fluorescent) for faster results (1-24 hours)); if BI grows (turbidity), sterilization failed - investigate (temperature, time, loading, BI handling) and re-sterilize all items in that load; record BI results per quality system. Safety: Dry heat sterilizers operate at 160-180 degrees C (very hot - chamber walls, shelves, and items remain hot for 30-60 minutes after cycle ends; use heat-resistant gloves (oven mitts) when handling; allow to cool to < 80 degrees C before opening door (opening hot door releases hot air that can burn face/hands; also hot glass can break from thermal shock if exposed to cool room air suddenly); do not place flammable materials near the sterilizer; ensure proper ventilation (sterilizer dissipates heat into room - can warm small rooms significantly; ensure adequate HVAC or exhaust); do not leave sterilizer unattended during operation (especially for longer cycles); keep fire extinguisher accessible (for lab fires); children/unauthorized personnel should not operate. Regulatory: For clinical/medical use, the sterilizer and sterilization process should comply with applicable regulations (FDA 510(k) for Class II medical device (sterilizer), CE marking (MDR), NMPA registration; follow AAMI/ANSI ST standards (ST8 for dry heat sterilization? - ST8 is for steam; there are standards for dry heat (e.g., AAMI ST40 for chemical indicators, AAMI ST79 for steam (mentions dry heat); ISO 20857 for dry heat sterilization of health care products); maintain sterilization records (date, time, temperature, cycle, operator, load contents, BI/CI results) per regulatory requirements (typically 3-10 years depending on jurisdiction and application); for pharmaceutical use, follow GMP (IQ/OQ/PQ validation, cycle development, revalidation per schedule).