The Importance of the Autoclave Door Gasket
When it comes to the various parts that make up an autoclave, each one is equally important. Take the importance of the door gasket for example. And all autoclaves have one version or another. But the fact remains that every autoclave requires a door gasket. The door gasket has a very important function some people might not fully consider. Autoclaves are constantly under high and intense pressure. That pressure builds inside of this metal chamber to suit the requirements necessary for certain methods of sterilization. Whether it be steam, vacuum, gravity displacement, you name it. What do you think is keeping all of that pressure from pushing anything out and causing leaks and compromising the sterilization cycle?
Yes the door is heavy and stays locked and shut, but that door isn’t enough. You need something to space the door and the autoclave body out and create a seal. Like a door gasket. The purpose of this article is to help you understand the importance of the door gasket and how it works in your autoclave. And if you have any questions, you can call us at 704-966-1650, and hit option 3 for tech support. But let’s start with the basic question for those who are unaware or just need a refresher.
What Is the Door Gasket?
It’s a rubber seal that fits around the door frame and covers any gaps between the door and body. The purpose of this seal is to prevent air leaks and ensure a seal is formed to contain the contents inside the chamber. This can range from the steam that sterilizes the load or the water that flows through the chamber. An airtight and/or watertight seal is necessary for proper sterilization.
They come in different forms to suit the various autoclave types. Cassette autoclaves have rectangular door gaskets called cassette seals. Other door gaskets are round and come in various sizes depending on what autoclave they fit. Some round ones also house metal rings to maintain its shape as to not compromise the seal. And sometimes they’re paired with a dam gasket that fits on the bottom of the door.
Why Is It Important?
The One major thing they’re good for is preventing leaks. Any kind of leak is not good for your autoclave because they can cause corrosion inside your machine. This corrosion will affect its longevity and performance as well as shorten its lifespan drastically. So the seal that the door gasket creates keeps everything in.
On that same note, the door gasket also prevents things from getting INSIDE as well. Keeping things from getting out is one thing. But when the autoclave’s job is to create a completely sterile environment, anything harmful from the outside getting in compromises everything.
And the strong seal they create between the door and chamber also helps keep the vacuum. Some autoclaves in different classes have the ability to create vacuums as a method of sterilization. But if there’s no seal, there’s no way to create a solid vacuum to initiate the pre/post vac process.
Final Thoughts
The importance of the door gasket is not something to underestimate. These sterilization machines can be put under intense pressure to fully sterilize whatever can be put in it. But without that door gasket to seal it, the entire process is a wash. And not the good kind. Door gaskets, cassette seals and any part under this umbrella are a vital part of an autoclave. And we hope you’re aware of the importance of the door gasket if you weren’t already.
If you are looking for a door gasket for your autoclave, we have a variety of options available here at Sterilizer Autoclave Solutions. We can help you find the right solution for your needs, so contact us today and we will walk you through our selection of products and services!
As always if you have any questions about this process or anything else please feel free to contact us and take advantage of our “FREE TECH SUPPORT.”
We also offer FREE VIRTUAL TECH SUPPORT to “See and Talk” with a “Real Time Live Technician” for any problems you may be in need of help with.
You can also use our “FREE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM”. Take the guesswork and worrying about what unit is due for maintenance and which maintenance cycle it is time for. We will keep track of all your autoclaves and let you know when it’s time for anything.
Door Gaskets can be found on our website here.
As well as any cassette seals for autoclaves that require them can be found here.