Understanding How Seals Work on Autoclaves

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In summary, the seal on a large resealable high pressure vessel such as an autoclave is typically achieved through a rotatable bayonet ring attached to the vessel, with a red o-ring face seal on the chamber and concentric rings for thermal insulation. The wedging of the bayonet ring is what provides the normal sealing force, and the ring is secured to the vessel while still being rotatable and strong enough to support the pressure on the flange during operation. As for lubricant for EPDM autoclave seals, further assistance may be needed.
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Andronicus1717
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How does the seal work on a large resealable high pressure vessel such as an autoclave?
example: http://gust.engin.umich.edu/autoclave2.jpg

If you look at the example above you always see the rotatable bayonet ring attached to the vessel. The red ring is probably the o-ring face seal on the chamber. The concentric rings on the end I assume are for thermal insulation of the red o-ring seal on the vessel.

Is it the wedging of the bayonet ring that provides the normal sealing force or is there something that I'm missing? And how is that ring secured to the vessel itself while being rotatable and stiff enough to support all the pressure on the flange while in operation? Or is the flange the rotatable part (that would make more sense)?
 
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On this subject can anyone help with a good lubricant for EPDM autoclave seals ?
 

1. How do seals work on autoclaves?

Seals on autoclaves work by creating an airtight barrier between the autoclave chamber and the outside environment. This prevents any air or moisture from entering or escaping the chamber during the sterilization process.

2. What materials are commonly used for autoclave seals?

The most common materials used for autoclave seals are silicone, rubber, and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). These materials are durable, heat-resistant, and can maintain an airtight seal under high pressure.

3. How do you know when an autoclave seal needs to be replaced?

Autoclave seals should be routinely checked for any signs of wear or damage. If there are cracks, tears, or any other visible damage, it is time to replace the seal. Additionally, if the autoclave is not reaching proper sterilization temperatures, it may be due to a faulty seal.

4. Can autoclave seals be reused?

It is not recommended to reuse autoclave seals. Over time, the high heat and pressure of the autoclave can cause wear and tear on the seal, compromising its effectiveness. It is best to replace the seal with each use to ensure proper sterilization.

5. What is the importance of properly maintaining autoclave seals?

Proper maintenance of autoclave seals is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of the sterilization process. A faulty seal can lead to air or moisture entering the chamber, which can compromise the sterilization of the instruments. This can also lead to contamination and potential health risks for patients.

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