YXQ-LS-50A Vertical Steam Autoclave

Overview

The YXQ-LS-50A Vertical Steam Autoclave is a fully automated, microprocessor-controlled laboratory sterilization system engineered for reliable, repeatable steam sterilization of heat-stable instruments, glassware, culture media, and biohazardous waste in academic, clinical, and industrial laboratories. It operates on the fundamental principle of saturated steam under elevated pressure—achieving microbial inactivation through thermal denaturation of proteins and nucleic acids. At 121 °C (0.11 MPa gauge) or 135 °C (0.22 MPa gauge), the unit delivers validated lethality (F₀ ≥ 12 min) compliant with ISO 17665-1:2019 and WHO TRS No. 992 Annex 2 requirements for moist heat sterilization. Its vertical configuration optimizes floor space without compromising chamber volume, making it suitable for medium-throughput environments where footprint efficiency and regulatory traceability are critical.

Key Features

• Integrated safety interlock system: Handwheel-operated quick-opening door with mechanical and electronic dual-locking mechanism—designed per Article 49 of the PRC Pressure Vessel Safety Technical Supervision Regulations.
• Corrosion-resistant construction: Entire chamber and outer casing fabricated from medical-grade SUS304 stainless steel (ASTM A240/A240M), ensuring long-term resistance to acidic, alkaline, and saline exposure during repeated sterilization cycles.
• Intelligent process control: Microcomputer-based controller with real-time monitoring of temperature, pressure, and time; supports three programmable sterilization profiles—standard exhaust, pulse exhaust (for porous loads), and no-exhaust (for liquid media).
• Automated safety safeguards: Overtemperature protection, low/high water level detection with auto-shutdown, automatic cold air purge via self-inflating silicone gasket, and pressure relief valve activation at ≥0.25 MPa design limit.
• Efficient steam management: Internal recirculating exhaust mode with integrated 3 L condensate collection bottle; post-cycle automatic chamber drainage and audible end-of-cycle alert.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The YXQ-LS-50A accommodates standard laboratory loads including wrapped surgical instruments, Petri dishes, Erlenmeyer flasks, autoclavable bags, and liquid media in borosilicate glass or polypropylene containers. Its chamber geometry (Ø300 × 680 mm) and triple-tier basket system (Ø280 × 210 mm × 3) support flexible load configurations while maintaining uniform steam penetration. The unit conforms to GB 8599–2008 (Chinese national standard for large steam sterilizers) and incorporates design elements aligned with EN 285:2015 (steam sterilizers – large sterilizers) for temperature uniformity and pressure integrity. While not pre-certified for FDA 510(k) or CE marking, its architecture supports validation protocols required under GLP, GMP, and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited quality systems.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller records cycle parameters—including setpoint temperature, actual chamber temperature, pressure profile, elapsed time, and fault codes—in non-volatile memory. Data export is supported via RS232 interface (optional USB adapter) for integration into laboratory information management systems (LIMS). Cycle logs include timestamps and operator ID fields (when configured with external authentication), enabling audit-ready documentation for internal QA reviews or regulatory inspections. The system supports manual parameter override only after password-protected access, satisfying basic ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate) for raw sterilization data.

Applications

• Sterilization of reusable labware (pipette tips, forceps, scissors) in university teaching and research labs.
• Preparation of microbiological growth media (e.g., nutrient agar, LB broth) without boil-over or excessive evaporation.
• Decontamination of biohazardous waste (e.g., spent cultures, contaminated PPE) prior to disposal in accordance with WHO Biosafety Manual guidelines.
• Validation support for routine sterilization processes in quality control departments of pharmaceutical and biotech facilities.
• Compliance-driven workflows requiring documented thermal lethality (F₀) calculation and cycle reproducibility across shifts.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable operating temperature and pressure?
The YXQ-LS-50A is rated for a maximum operating temperature of 135 °C and a maximum working pressure of 0.22 MPa (gauge), with a design pressure of 0.25 MPa.
Does this autoclave support validation for ISO 13485 or USP <1211>?
Yes—the unit’s stable temperature control, pressure repeatability, and data logging capability enable IQ/OQ/PQ protocol execution when paired with third-party calibrated sensors and qualified test loads.
Can liquid media be sterilized without boiling over?
Yes—by selecting the “no exhaust” mode, the controller maintains chamber pressure during cooling, minimizing turbulence and preventing container rupture or spillage.
Is external calibration service available?
Calibration of temperature and pressure transducers must be performed annually using NIST-traceable reference standards; certified service partners are available in major PRC metropolitan areas.
What maintenance is required between cycles?
Daily tasks include draining the condensate bottle, inspecting the door gasket for deformation or debris, and verifying water level before each run; quarterly inspection of safety valves and annual replacement of the silicone sealing ring are recommended.