Amsco 400 Series User manual

OPERATOR MANUAL
AMSCO®400 Series Medium Steam Sterilizers
26"x 37.5" (660 x 953 mm) • Prevacuum
Rev. AC 129394068

i
Introduction Operator Manual P129394-068
A WORD FROM STERIS CORPORATION
© 2019, STERIS Corporation. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
This manual contains important information on proper use of this
sterilizer. All operators and department heads must carefully
review and become familiar with the warnings, cautions and
instructions contained in this manual. These instructions are
important to the health and safety of personnel operating the
sterilizer and should be retained in a conveniently accessible area
for quick reference.
This sterilizer is specifically designed to process goods using only
the cycles as specified in this manual. If there is any doubt about a
specific material or product, contact the manufacturer of the product
for the recommended sterilization technique.
STERIS Corporation carries a complete line of accessories for this
unit to simplify, organize and assure sterility of the sterilization
process. Instrument trays, pouches and biological/chemical
monitoring systems are all available to fulfill your facility’s processing
needs. STERIS®will gladly review these with you.
Service Information A thorough preventive maintenance program is essential to safe and
proper sterilizer operation. You are encouraged to contact STERIS
concerning our Preventive Maintenance Agreement. Under terms of
this agreement, preventive maintenance, adjustments and
replacement of worn parts are done on a scheduled basis to assure
equipment performance at peak capability and help avoid untimely
or costly interruptions. STERIS maintains a worldwide staff of well-
equipped, factory-trained technicians to provide this service, as well
as expert repair services. Contact your STERIS representative for
details.
Indications for Use The AMSCO®400 Series Medium Steam Sterilizer is designed for
sterilization of heat- and moisture-stable materials used in healthcare
facilities.
The sterilizer is available in a prevacuum configuration designed for
sterilization of heat and moisture-stable materials. The Prevacuum
sterilizer is equipped with Prevacuum, Gravity, Leak Test and Dart
(Bowie-Dick) cycles.
(Continued on following page.)

ii
P129394-068 Operator Manual Introduction
26 x 37.5 (660 x 950 mm) Sterilizer Factory-Set Cycles and Cycle Values1
The AMSCO 400 Series Prevacuum Medium Steam Sterilizers 26 x 37.5" (660 x 953mm) are equipped with the
following factory programmed sterilization cycles and cycle values (Table 1).
Table 2. Test Cycles
1. Supervisor must enable access to optional cycles, such as the Gravity Cycle.
Table 1. Factory Default Cycles for AMSCO 400 Series 36 H, 48 H, 60 H, 36 SL, 48 SL and 60 SL Sterilizers
Cycles: Sterilize
Temp.
Sterilize
Time
Dry
Time Recommended Load*Validation
Standard
1. Prevac Cycle 270°F
(132°C) 4 Minutes 30 Minutes Double-wrapped instrument trays
containing multiple instruments,
porous and non-porous loads.
Maximum weight per tray: 25 lbs
(11.3 kg)
ST-8:2008
2. Prevac Cycle 275°F
(135°C) 3 Minutes 30 Minutes ST-8:2008
3. Prevac Cycle 270°F
(132°C) 4 Minutes 20 Minutes Fabric Packs. ST-8:2008
4. Prevac Cycle 270°F
(132°C) 4 minutes 5 Minutes Single Fabric Pack ST-8:2008
5. Gravity Cycle 250°F
(121°C) 30 Minutes 15 Minutes Fabric Packs ST-8:2008
6. Liquid 250°F
(121°C) 45 N/A
Refer to Table 3, LIQUID CYCLE ONLY:
NUMBER OF 1000 ML CONTAINERS FOR
FULL LOAD
ST-8:2008
*SeeTable 3 for recommended quantities.
Test Cycles Sterilize
Temp.
Sterilize
Time
Dry
Time Recommended Load Validation Standard
7. Leak Test*
* Not adjustable.
N/A N/A N/A None ST-8:2008
8. Dart Test* 270°F (132°C) 3-1/2
Minutes
1 Minute Dart or Bowie-Dick Test Pack ST-8:2008
9. Dart Warm-up* 270°F (132°C) 3 Minutes 1 Minute None N/A

iii
Introduction Operator Manual P129394-068
Table 3. Maximum Loads by Sterilizer Chamber Size1
:
Model Number Chamber Size
Wrapped
Instrument
Trays
Fabric
Packs
Liquid Cycle
Only: Number
of 1000 mL
Containers for
Full Load
36 H, 36 SL 26 x 37.5 x 36" (660 x 953 x 914 mm) 9 18 112
48 H, 48 SL 26 x 37.5 x 48" (660 x 953 x 1219 mm) 12 30 154
60 H, 60 SL 26 x 37.5 x 60" (660 x 953 x 1524 mm) 15 36 196
1Refer to Table 1 to determine cycle use guidelines.
Table 4. Sterilizer Chamber Volume
Sterilizer Model Number Sterilizer Chamber Size Volume
36 H, 36 SL 26 x 37.5 x 36" (660 x 953 x 914 mm) 35,100 in3/ 20.3 ft3
48 H, 48 SL 26 x 37.5 x 48" (660 x 953 x 1219 mm) 46,800 in3/ 27.1 ft3
60 H, 60 SL 26 x 37.5 x 60" (660 x 953 x 1524 mm) 58,500 in3/ 33.9 ft3
H = Hinged door model
SL = Sliding door model (horizontal or vertical)
Table 5. Sterilizer Hinged Door Configurations
26 x 37.5 x 36" (660 x 953 x 914 mm) Single Door, Prevacuum
26 x 37.5 x 48" (660 x 953 x 1219 mm) Single Door, Prevacuum
Double Door, Prevacuum
26 x 37.5 x 60" (660 x 953 x 1524 mm) Single Door, Prevacuum
Double Door, Prevacuum
Table 6. Sterilizer Horizontal-Sliding Door Configurations
26 x 37.5 x 36" (660 x 953 x 914 mm) Single Door, Prevacuum
26 x 37.5 x 48" (660 x 953 x 1219 mm) Single Door, Prevacuum
Double Door, Prevacuum
26 x 37.5 x 60" (660 x 953 x 1524 mm) Single Door, Prevacuum
Double Door, Prevacuum

iv
P129394-068 Operator Manual Introduction
Advisory This sterilizer is specifically designed to only process goods using the cycles
as specified in this manual. If there is any doubt about a specific material or
product, contact the manufacturer of that product for the recommended
sterilization technique.
A summary of the safety precautions to be observed when operating and
servicing this equipment can be found in SECTION 1 of this manual. Do not
operate or service the equipment until you have become familiar with this
information.
Any alteration of the sterilizer not authorized or performed by STERIS will void
the warranty. Alteration of the equipment which could adversely affect its
operation and sterilization efficacy may violate national, state and local laws
or regulations.
Manufactured by:
STERIS Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Avenida Avante 790
Parque Industrial Guadalupe
Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico C.P. 67190
Sales and Service:
STERIS Corporation
5960 Heisley Road
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-354-2600 • 800-444-9009
www.steris.com

v
Table of Contents Operator Manual P129394-068
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section
Number Description Page
1 Safety Precautions ........................................................................................................................ 1-1
2 Symbols and Labels...................................................................................................................... 2-1
3 Installation Verification ................................................................................................................. 3-1
3.1 Installation Checklist ............................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1.1 Service Clearance ................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.2 Plumbing Services................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.3 Electrical Service ..................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.1.4 Sterilizer Final Check .............................................................................................................. 3-2
3.1.5 Cycle Operation....................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.2 Technical Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 3-3
3.2.1 Overall Size ............................................................................................................................. 3-3
3.2.2 Weight (Fully Loaded) ............................................................................................................ 3-3
3.2.3 Utility Requirements ................................................................................................................ 3-4
3.2.4 Environmental Conditions ....................................................................................................... 3-4
4 Techniques of Sterilization........................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1 General ................................................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.2 Control Measures for Verifying Sterilization Process........................................................................... 4-2
4.2.1 Biological Monitors .................................................................................................................. 4-2
4.2.2 Testing for Prevacuum Efficiency ............................................................................................ 4-3
4.3 Bowie-Dick Test ................................................................................................................................... 4-3
4.4 Vacuum Leak Test ............................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.5 Recommendations for the Sterilization Process .................................................................................. 4-4
4.6 Techniques of Sterilization for Liquid Cycle ......................................................................................... 4-5
4.7 Recommendations for Sterilizing Liquids............................................................................................. 4-6
5 Component Identification ............................................................................................................. 5-1
5.1 General ................................................................................................................................................ 5-2
5.2 Main Sterilizer and Cycle Controls....................................................................................................... 5-2
5.3 Control Displays................................................................................................................................... 5-4
5.4 Alarm Displays ..................................................................................................................................... 5-5
5.5 Operating End and Non-Operating End Control Panels ...................................................................... 5-6
5.6 Cycle Selection Touch-screen Pads .................................................................................................... 5-7
5.6.1 Values Touch-Screen Pads..................................................................................................... 5-8
5.6.2 Abort Touch-Screen Pad......................................................................................................... 5-9
5.7 Printer ................................................................................................................................................ 5-10
5.8 Printouts............................................................................................................................................. 5-10
5.9 Horizontal-Sliding Door Operation ..................................................................................................... 5-12
5.10 Hinged-Door Operation...................................................................................................................... 5-12

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P129394-068 Operator Manual Table of Contents
Section
Number Description Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5.11 Emergency Door Opening Procedure................................................................................................ 5-13
5.12 Emergency Stop Switch..................................................................................................................... 5-15
5.12.1 Emergency Stop Key............................................................................................................. 5-16
5.12.2 Emergency Stop Guard......................................................................................................... 5-16
5.12.3 Emergency Stop Label .......................................................................................................... 5-16
6 Sterilizer Operation ....................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.1 Before Operating the Sterilizer............................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2 Preparing Loads for Sterilization Cycles .............................................................................................. 6-3
6.3 Guidelines for Placement of Various Loads......................................................................................... 6-3
6.4 Unloading the Sterilizer........................................................................................................................ 6-4
6.5 Loading Cart and Transfer Carriage Instructions: Loading .................................................................. 6-5
6.6 Loading Car Instructions: Unloading.................................................................................................... 6-6
6.7 Loading/Unloading Sterilizer: Rack and Shelves ................................................................................. 6-6
6.8 Prevacuum Sterilizer Cycles ................................................................................................................ 6-7
6.9 Prevac Cycles ...................................................................................................................................... 6-9
6.10 Gravity Cycles.................................................................................................................................... 6-13
6.11 Liquid Cycle ....................................................................................................................................... 6-17
6.12 Test Cycles ........................................................................................................................................ 6-20
6.12.1 Bowie-Dick Test Cycle........................................................................................................... 6-21
6.12.2 Vacuum Leak Test ................................................................................................................ 6-24
6.13 Aborting Cycles.................................................................................................................................. 6-26
6.14 Cycle Graphs ..................................................................................................................................... 6-27
7 Cycle and Control Value Programming....................................................................................... 7-1
7.1 Change Values .................................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.2 Change Cycle Values .......................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.2.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................. 7-2
7.2.2 Adjusting Cycle Sterilize Time and Dry Time .......................................................................... 7-2
7.2.3 Step-by-Step Flowchart ........................................................................................................... 7-5
7.3 Entering Custom Cycle Names............................................................................................................ 7-8
7.4 Change Time and Date........................................................................................................................ 7-9
7.5 Change Machine Setup ..................................................................................................................... 7-12
7.5.1 Access Code ......................................................................................................................... 7-13
7.5.2 Lockout.................................................................................................................................. 7-15
7.5.3 Utilities Control ...................................................................................................................... 7-17
7.5.4 Machine Number ................................................................................................................... 7-21
7.5.5 Time Format .......................................................................................................................... 7-21
7.5.6 Print Format........................................................................................................................... 7-22
7.5.7 Audible Signals...................................................................................................................... 7-25
7.5.8 Units ...................................................................................................................................... 7-26

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Table of Contents Operator Manual P129394-068
Section
Number Description Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
7.5.9 Date Format ......................................................................................................................... 7-26
7.5.10 Duplicate Print ....................................................................................................................... 7-27
7.6 Leaving Change Values..................................................................................................................... 7-28
8 Routine Maintenance..................................................................................................................... 8-1
8.1 Preventive Maintenance ...................................................................................................................... 8-1
8.2 Printer Maintenance............................................................................................................................. 8-2
8.2.1 Check Printer Paper Supply .................................................................................................... 8-2
8.2.2 Check Printer Ink Cartridge ..................................................................................................... 8-5
8.3 Routine Chamber Maintenance ........................................................................................................... 8-7
8.3.1 Clean Chamber Drain Strainer ................................................................................................ 8-7
8.3.2 Flush Chamber Drain .............................................................................................................. 8-8
8.3.3 Clean Chamber ....................................................................................................................... 8-9
9 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................ 9-1
9.1 General ................................................................................................................................................ 9-1
9.1.1 Typical Alarm Screen .............................................................................................................. 9-1
9.1.2 Typical Alarm Printout ............................................................................................................. 9-2
9.2 In-Cycle Alarms.................................................................................................................................... 9-2
9.2.1 Too Long In Charge ................................................................................................................ 9-2
9.2.2 Too Long In Exhaust ............................................................................................................... 9-3
9.2.3 Too Long In Evacuation .......................................................................................................... 9-3
9.2.4 Too Long In Air Break ............................................................................................................. 9-4
9.2.5 Under Sterilize Temperature ................................................................................................... 9-5
9.2.6 Over Sterilize Temperature ..................................................................................................... 9-6
9.2.7 Door Unsealed ........................................................................................................................ 9-7
9.2.8 Chamber Pressure/Temperature Failure................................................................................. 9-7
9.2.9 Exhaust Rate Too Fast............................................................................................................ 9-8
9.2.10 Exhaust Rate Too Slow ........................................................................................................... 9-9
9.2.11 Recorder Deviation Alarm ....................................................................................................... 9-9
9.3 Out-of-Cycle Alarms........................................................................................................................... 9-10
9.3.1 Too Long To Close Door ....................................................................................................... 9-10
9.3.2 Too Long To Open Door ....................................................................................................... 9-11
9.3.3 Pressure In Chamber ............................................................................................................ 9-11
9.3.4 Waste Temperature Probe Failure ........................................................................................ 9-12
9.3.5 Atmospheric Pressure Alarm.................................................................................................9-13
9.3.6 Input/Output Board #1 Communication Failure ..................................................................... 9-13
9.3.7 Relay #1 Failure .................................................................................................................... 9-14
9.3.8 ROM Failure .......................................................................................................................... 9-14
9.3.9 RAM Failure .......................................................................................................................... 9-15
9.3.10 ADC Failure........................................................................................................................... 9-15

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P129394-068 Operator Manual Table of Contents
Section
Number Description Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
9.4 Sensor Alarms ................................................................................................................................... 9-16
9.4.1 Water In Chamber ................................................................................................................. 9-16
9.4.2 Too Long In Jacket Charge ................................................................................................... 9-16
9.4.3 Too Long To Seal Door ......................................................................................................... 9-17
9.4.4 Too Long To Unseal Door ..................................................................................................... 9-18
9.4.5 Chamber Pressure Transducer Failure ................................................................................. 9-18
9.4.6 Chamber Temperature Probe Failure.................................................................................... 9-19
9.4.7 Jacket Temperature Probe Failure ........................................................................................ 9-20
9.4.8 Door Switch Failure ............................................................................................................... 9-20
9.4.9 Door Seal A Switch Malfunction ............................................................................................ 9-22
9.4.10 Board Overtemp Failure ........................................................................................................ 9-23
10 Service Procedures ..................................................................................................................... 10-1
10.1 General .............................................................................................................................................. 10-1
10.2 Air Filter Replacement ....................................................................................................................... 10-1
10.3 Clean Strainers .................................................................................................................................. 10-2
10.4 Door Seal Replacement Procedure ................................................................................................... 10-5
10.5 Steam Trap Replacement .................................................................................................................. 10-6
10.6 Clean or Replace Piping Check Valves ............................................................................................. 10-6
10.7 Rebuild Solenoid Valves .................................................................................................................... 10-6
10.8 Safety Valve Test............................................................................................................................... 10-7
10.9 Recommended Spare Parts............................................................................................................... 10-8
10.10 Waste Products Disposal................................................................................................................. 10-10

ix
Techniques of Sterilization Operator Manual P129394-068
LIST OF FIGURES
Descrption Page
Figure 4-1. Vented Closures ................................................................................................................................. 4-6
Figure 5-1. AMSCO 400 Series Medium Sterilizer Control Components.............................................................. 5-1
Figure 5-2. Location of Sterilizer Utility Controls ................................................................................................... 5-2
Figure 5-3. Utility Supply Valves and Standby Screen ......................................................................................... 5-3
Figure 5-4. Typical Out-Of-Cycle and In-Cycle Displays...................................................................................... 5-4
Figure 5-5. Typical Alarm Displays ....................................................................................................................... 5-5
Figure 5-6. Operating End and Non-Operating End Control Panels .................................................................... 5-6
Figure 5-7. Cycle Selection Touch Pads .............................................................................................................. 5-7
Figure 5-8. Values Touch Screen Pads ................................................................................................................ 5-8
Figure 5-9. Cycle Abort Touch-Screen Pad.......................................................................................................... 5-9
Figure 5-10. Typical Printout ............................................................................................................................... 5-11
Figure 5-11. Hinged Door Operation .................................................................................................................. 5-12
Figure 5-12. Chamber and Seal Emergency Exhaust Valves............................................................................. 5-13
Figure 5-13. Operate Lock Release Lever.......................................................................................................... 5-14
Figure 5-14. Emergency Stop Button, Key and Guard ....................................................................................... 5-15
Figure 5-15. Press Abort Button to End Cycles When Needed .......................................................................... 5-15
Figure 5-16. Emergency Stop Label................................................................................................................... 5-16
Figure 6-1. Utility Supply Valves and Basic Sterilizer Controls............................................................................. 6-2
Figure 6-2. Align Loading Car with Chamber Opening ........................................................................................ 6-5
Figure 6-3. Sterilizer Chamber Equipped with Rack and Shelves........................................................................ 6-7
Figure 6-4. Prevac Cycle In-Cycle Screens.......................................................................................................... 6-8
Figure 6-5. Typical Prevacuum Cycle Printouts.................................................................................................. 6-10
Figure 6-6. Gravity Cycle In-Cycle Screens........................................................................................................ 6-12
Figure 6-7. Typical Gravity Cycle Printout .......................................................................................................... 6-14
Figure 6-8. Liquid Cycle In-Cycle Screens......................................................................................................... 6-16
Figure 6-9. Typical Printout of a Liquid Cycle..................................................................................................... 6-18
Figure 6-10. Test Cycles Start-Cycle Screens .................................................................................................... 6-20
Figure 6-11. Dart (Bowie-Dick) Test Cycle Printout ............................................................................................ 6-23
Figure 6-12. Typical Printout of a Leak Test Cycle ............................................................................................. 6-25
Figure 6-13. Cycle Graph – 270°F or 275°F Prevacuum and Dart (Bowie-Dick) Cycles................................... 6-27
Figure 6-14. Cycle Graph – Gravity Cycle .......................................................................................................... 6-27
Figure 6-15. Cycle Graph – Leak Test ................................................................................................................ 6-28
Figure 6-16. Cycle Graph – Steam Flush Pressure Pulse (SFPP) Cycles........................................................... 6-28
Figure 6-17. Cycle Graph – Liquid Cycle ........................................................................................................... 6-29
Figure 7-1. Accessing Change Cycle Values, Part 1 of 3..................................................................................... 7-5
Figure 7-2. Change Cycle Values, Part 2 of 3 ...................................................................................................... 7-6
Figure 7-3. Change Cycle Values Procedure, Part 3 of 3..................................................................................... 7-7
Figure 7-4. Enter or Change Custom Cycle Names ............................................................................................. 7-8
Figure 7-5. Sample Full and Condensed Printouts ............................................................................................. 7-24
Figure 8-1. Open Printer Door .............................................................................................................................. 8-2
Figure 8-2. Printer Components (Printer Door Open) ........................................................................................... 8-2

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P129394-068 Operator Manual Techniques of Sterilization
LIST OF FIGURES
Descrption Page
Figure 8-3. Tear Printer Paper .............................................................................................................................. 8-3
Figure 8-4. Insert New Paper Roll......................................................................................................................... 8-3
Figure 8-5. Insert Paper Behind Printer Ink Cartridge .......................................................................................... 8-4
Figure 8-6. Press Paper Feed Button to Advance Paper...................................................................................... 8-4
Figure 8-7. Coil Paper onto Take-Up Spool.......................................................................................................... 8-4
Figure 8-8. Reinstall Take-Up Spool ..................................................................................................................... 8-5
Figure 8-9. Remove Ink Cartridge From Printer .................................................................................................... 8-5
Figure 8-10. Slip Cartridge Onto Printer Paper..................................................................................................... 8-6
Figure 8-11. Chamber Drain Strainer..................................................................................................................... 8-7
Figure 9-1. Typical Alarm Screen ......................................................................................................................... 9-1
Figure 9-2. Typical Alarm Printout ........................................................................................................................ 9-2
Figure 10-1. Serviceable Piping Components.................................................................................................... 10-3
Figure 10-2. Remove Door Seal.......................................................................................................................... 10-4
Figure 10-3. Location of Seal Lot Data and Reference indicators...................................................................... 10-4
Figure 10-4. Steam Trap ..................................................................................................................................... 10-6
Figure 10-5. Internal Pilot-Operated Solenoid Valve........................................................................................... 10-7
Figure 10-6. Piping Schematic – AMSCO 400 Series Medium Steam Sterilizer ............................................... 10-11

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Techniques of Sterilization Operator Manual P129394-068
LIST OF FIGURES
Descrption Page
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Factory Default Cycles.AMSCO 400 Series 36 H, 48 H, 60 H, 36 SL, 48 SL and 60 SL Sterilizers .. 0-ii
Table 2. Test Cycles........................................................................................................................................ 0-ii
Table 3. Maximum Loads by Sterilizer Chamber Size .................................................................................. 0-iii
Table 4. Sterilizer Chamber Volume............................................................................................................... 0-iii
Table 5. Sterilizer Hinged Door Configurations.............................................................................................. 0-iii
Table 6. Sterilizer Horizontal-Sliding Door Configurations ............................................................................. 0-iii
Table 2-1. Symbol Definitions.............................................................................................................................2-1
Table 2-2. Label Definitions................................................................................................................................2-2
Table 4-1. AMSCO 400 Prevacuum Medium Steam Sterilizer Cycles – 36H, 36SL, 48H, 48SL, 60H, 60SL......4-1
Table 4-2. Liquid Cycle Processing Guidelines ................................................................................................4-5
Table 6-1. Factory-Set Prevacuum Cycles .........................................................................................................6-8
Table 6-2. Factory-Set Gravity Cycles and Cycle Values.................................................................................6-12
Table 6-3. Factory-Set Optional Liquid Cycle and Cycle Values .....................................................................6-16
Table 6-4. Test Cycles......................................................................................................................................6-20
Table 7-1. Adjustment Ranges for Cycle Values ................................................................................................7-4
Table 7-2. Change Machine Setup...................................................................................................................7-12
Table 10-1. Replacement Parts AMSCO 400 Series Medium Steam Sterilizer ..................................................10-9

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P129394-068 Operator Manual Techniques of Sterilization
LIST OF FIGURES
Descrption Page

1-1
Safety Precautions Operator Manual P129394-068
1
The following Safety Precautions must be observed when operating or servicing this AMSCO®400 Series Medium
Steam Sterilizer. WARNING indicates the potential for personal injury and CAUTION indicates the potential for
damage to equipment. For emphasis, certain Safety Precautions are repeated throughout the manual. It is
important to review all Safety Precautions before operating or servicing the unit.
Strictly following these Safety Precautions enhances the Customer’s ability to safely and effectively utilize the unit
and helps avoid improper maintenance methods which may damage the unit or render it unsafe. It is important to
understand that these Safety Precautions are not exhaustive; Customers are encouraged to develop their own
safety policies and procedures to enhance and complement these Safety Precautions.
Important: Please read this Equipment Manual to get the best understanding and to help ensure best
performance of this equipment, which has been thoroughly inspected, tested and adjusted by factory-trained
personnel.
• Equipment maintenance other than described in the manual (unless by authorized representatives of the
STERIS Corporation), shall be at the risk of invalidating the equipment warranty.
• To obtain authorized service call:
STERIS Corporation
Healthcare: 1-800-548-4873
Life Sciences: 1-800-444-9009
WARNING – ELECTRIC SHOCK AND BURN HAZARD:
WARNING:
WARNING – PERSONAL INJURY HAZARD:
Disconnect all utilities to sterilizer before servicing. Do not service the sterilizer unless all utilities
have been properly locked out. Always follow OSHA Lockout-Tagout and electrical safety-related work
practice standards.
It is inappropriate for a healthcare facility to sterilize liquids for direct patient contact.
Avoid personal injury from bursting bottles. Liquid sterilization cycle must only be used for liquids in
borosilicate (Pyrex®a) flasks with vented closures.
a. PYREX®is a registered trademark of Corning Incorporated.
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 1

1-2
P129394-068 Operator Manual Safety Precautions
WARNING – EXPLOSION HAZARD:
WARNING – SLIPPING HAZARD:
WARNING – BURN HAZARD:
When sterilizing liquids, to prevent personal injury or property damage resulting from bursting bottles
and hot fluid, you must observe the following procedures:
•Use Liquid cycle only; no other cycle is safe for processing liquids.
•Use only vented closures; do not use screw caps or rubber stoppers with crimped seal.
•Use only Type I borosilicate glass bottles; do not use ordinary glass bottles or any container not designed for
sterilization.
•Do not allow hot bottles to be jolted; this can cause hot-bottle explosions. Do not move bottles if any boiling or
bubbling is present.
Sterilizer, rack/shelves and loading car will be hot after cycle is run. Always wear protective gloves
and apron when removing a processed load. Protective gloves and apron must be worn when reloading
sterilizer following the previous operation.
Do not attempt to open the sterilizer door if a WATER IN CHAMBER ALARM condition exists. Call a
qualified service technician before attempting to use sterilizer further.
After manual exhaust, steam may remain inside the chamber. Always wear protective gloves, apron,
and a face shield when following emergency procedure to unload sterilizer. Stay as far back from the
chamber opening as possible when opening the door.
Allow sterilizer to cool to room temperature before performing any cleaning or maintenance
procedures.
Failure to shut off the steam supply when cleaning or replacing strainers can result in serious injury.
Jacket pressure must be 0 psig before beginning work on the steam trap.
Proper testing of the safety valve requires the valve to be operated under pressure. Exhaust from
the safety valve is hot and can cause burns. Proper safety attire (gloves, eye protection, insulated overall)
as designated by OSHA, is required. Testing is to be performed by qualified service personnel only.
Steam may be released from the chamber when door is opened. Step back from the sterilizer each
time the door is opened to minimize contact with steam vapor.
This sterilizer is not designed to process flammable compounds.
To prevent falls, keep floors dry by immediately wiping up any spilled liquids or condensation in
sterilizer loading or unloading area.
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1-3
Safety Precautions Operator Manual P129394-068
WARNING – PERSONAL INJURY HAZARD AND/OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE HAZARD:
WARNING – STERILITY ASSURANCE HAZARD:
CAUTION – POSSIBLE EQUIPMENT DAMAGE:
Regularly scheduled preventive maintenance is required for safe and reliable operation of this equipment.
Contact your STERIS service representative to schedule preventive maintenance.
When closing the chamber door, keep hands and arms out of the door opening and make sure opening is
clear of obstructions.
Repairs and adjustments to this equipment must be made only by fully qualified service personnel.
Maintenance performed by inexperienced, unqualified persons or installation of unauthorized parts could
cause personal injury or result in costly equipment damage.
The performance of the sterilizer is validated as a system including components defined by STERIS in the
Operator Manual and Service Manual for the sterilizer. Substitution of unauthorized components can
potentially lead to personal injury, damage or premature failure of the product and result in a unit
configuration that is inconsistent with the validated product. STERIS warranty is void if components are
used that are not approved. DO NOT USE components that are not validated as part of this sterilizer.
Load sterility may be compromised if the biological indicator or air leak test indicates a potential problem.
If these indicators show a potential problem, refer the situation to a qualified service technician before
using the sterilizer further.
According to AAMI standards, a measured leak rate greater than 1 mm Hg/minute (1.3 mbar/min)
indicates a problem with the sterilizer. Refer the situation to a qualified service technician before using the
sterilizer further.
Gasket must be fully retracted prior to operating sterilizer door.
If 0 dry time is selected, sterilizer automatically initiates a vapor removal phase in place of drying. This
phase can still draw a vacuum to 5 inHg. Consult device manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure
devices being processed can withstand this depth of vacuum.
Lifting the chamber float switch when cleaning the chamber may cause the sterilizer control to initiate a
“Chamber Flooded” alarm. If this alarm condition occurs, the operator must turn the control power OFF
then ON to clear the alarm. The control power switch is located in the mechanical area at the side of the
sterilizer. Placing the sterilizer in standby does not clear this alarm.
Never use a wire brush, abrasives or steel wool on door and chamber assembly. Do not use cleaners
containing chloride on stainless-steel surfaces. Chloride-based cleaners will deteriorate stainless steel,
eventually leading to failure of the vessel.
Do not use cleaners containing chlorides on loading cars. Chloride-based cleaners will deteriorate the
loading car metal.
Sterilization of chloride-containing solutions (e.g., saline) can cause chamber corrosion and is not
recommended by the manufacturer. If, however, chloride-containing solutions must be processed, clean
the chamber after each use.
Allow thermostatic traps to cool down to room temperature before removing cover. Since there is nothing
to limit expansion, the bellows may rupture or fatigue if trap is opened while hot.
Actuation at less than 75% of rated pressure can allow debris to contaminate the seat and cause the
safety valve to leak. A leaking safety valve must be replaced.
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1-4
P129394-068 Operator Manual Safety Precautions
Insufficient service clearance will make repairs more difficult and time-consuming.
Piping sized too small may cause water hammer, resulting in damage to the sterilizer.
After installation, it is mandatory to brace piping at the drain funnel so that it will not move vertically.
Make sure door opening is clear of any obstruction before closing the door(s).
Do not attempt to open sterilizer door during manual operation unless chamber is at 0 psig.
During manual operation, gasket must be fully retracted prior to operating sterilizer door.
Immediately wipe up saline solution spills on loading car, to prevent damage to stainless steel.
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2-1
Symbol Definitions Operator Manual P129394-068
The following symbols appear on AMSCO®400 Series Medium Steam Sterilizers and are provided here for
reference.
Table 2-1. Symbol Definitions
Symbol Definition Symbol Definition
Transfer of heat,
hot surface
Serial number of unit
(located on sterilizer’s data
plate)
Protective earth
(i.e., ground) V Voltage rating of unit
Electrostatic sensitive
device ~ Alternating current
Locked cycle or machine set
up option A Amperage rating of unit
Unlocked cycle or machine
set up option Hz Frequency rating of unit
Attention, consult manual for
further instructions Ø Phase of the unit
Crushing Hazard, Hand Crushing Hazard, Foot or
Toe
SN
SYMBOLS AND LABELS 2

2-2
P129394-068 Operator Manual Symbol Definitions
Electric Shock Hazard, High
Voltage Emergency Stop Button
Slipping Hazard
Table 2-1. Symbol Definitions (Continued)
Symbol Definition Symbol Definition
Table 2-2. Label Definitions
Label Definition
Part Number: 055605-145
Purpose: General information,
operating recommendations and
contact information for STERIS
Corporation
Location: On front or rear panel
See: SECTION 6, STERILIZER
OPERATION
Part Number: 055605-147
Purpose: Indicates hazards for heat
and moisture while operating sterilizer
Location: On front or rear panel,
adjacent to door opening
See: SECTION 6, STERILIZER
OPERATION
055604145 REV. 0
Lea el MANUAL DEL EQUIPO para comprender mejor el funcionamiento y obtener el
máximo rendimiento de este equipo, que ha sido inspeccionado, probado y ajustado de
forma exhaustiva por personal formado en fábrica.
• El mantenimiento del equipo que no se ajuste a lo descrito en el Manual (a no ser
que dicho mantenimiento haya sido autorizado por representantes de STERIS
Corporation) puede conllevar la invalidación de la garantía del equipo.
• Para conseguir un mantenimiento autorizado, llame a:
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANTE
IMPORTANT
Please read the Equipment Manual to get the best understanding and to help ensure the
best performance of this equipment, which has been thoroughly inspected, tested and
adjusted by factory-trained personnel.
• Equipment maintenance other than as described in the Manual (unless by authorized
representatives of the STERIS Corporation), shall be at the risk of invalidating the
equipment warranty
• To obtain authorized service, call:
Veuillez lire ce MANUEL pour prendre connaissance du fonctionnement de cet
équipement et en tirer les meilleures performances. Ce matériel a été inspecté, testé et
réglé par du personnel formé en usine.
• L’entretien de ce matéruek diut se faire conformément à ce qui est décrit dans le
manuel (sauf s’il est effectué par du personnel autorisé de Steris CORPORATION),
faute de quoi l’equipement pourrait étre endommagé et la garantie annulée.
• Pour faire appel à un technicien autorisé, appelez:
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WARNING
PRECAUCION
AVERTISSEMENT
SLIPPERY
RESBALOSO
GLISSANTE
HOT SURFACE
SUPERFICIE CALIENTE
SURFACE CHAUDE