MELAG Vacuklav 24 B+ User manual

Operating Manual
Vacuklav® 24 B+
Vacuklav® 30 B+
Steam sterilizer
from software version 5.20
EN
Dear customer,
We thank you for your confidence demonstrated by the purchase of this MELAG product. As an owner-run and operated
family concern founded in 1951, we have a long history of successful specialization in hygiene products for practice-
based use. Our focus on innovation, quality and the highest standards of operational reliability has established MELAG
as the world’s leading manufacturer in the instrument reprocessing and hygiene field.
You, our customer are justified in your demand for the best products, quality and reliability. Providing “competence in
hygiene” and “Quality – made in Germany”, we guarantee that these demands will be met. Our certified quality man-
agement system is subject to close monitoring: one instrument to this end is our annual multi-day audit conducted in ac-
cordance with ENISO13485. This guarantees that all MELAG products are manufactured and tested in accordance with
strict quality criteria.
The MELAG management and team.

Contents
Contents
1 General notes .......................................................................................................................................................................5
Symbols used.......................................................................................................................................................................5
Disposal ...............................................................................................................................................................................5
2 Safety.....................................................................................................................................................................................6
3 Performance specifications ................................................................................................................................................8
Intended use ........................................................................................................................................................................8
Performance characteristics of sterilization programs .........................................................................................................8
4 Description of the device.....................................................................................................................................................9
Views of the device ..............................................................................................................................................................9
Symbols on the device .......................................................................................................................................................10
Operating panel..................................................................................................................................................................12
Load mounts ......................................................................................................................................................................12
5 Installation requirements...................................................................................................................................................13
Installation location.............................................................................................................................................................13
Electromagnetic environments...........................................................................................................................................13
Space requirements ...........................................................................................................................................................14
6 Installation ..........................................................................................................................................................................16
Setup and installation.........................................................................................................................................................16
Aligning the steam sterilizer ...............................................................................................................................................16
Mains supply ......................................................................................................................................................................16
Water connection ...............................................................................................................................................................17
Feed water supply..............................................................................................................................................................17
7 Sterilization .........................................................................................................................................................................18
Switching on the steam sterilizer........................................................................................................................................18
Preparing the load..............................................................................................................................................................18
Frequency of sterilization ...................................................................................................................................................19
Loading the steam sterilizer ...............................................................................................................................................19
Selecting the program ........................................................................................................................................................21
Additional program options ................................................................................................................................................22
Starting the program ..........................................................................................................................................................23
Manual program abort........................................................................................................................................................23
Removing the sterile material.............................................................................................................................................25
Storing sterile material .......................................................................................................................................................25
8 Logging ...............................................................................................................................................................................26
Batch documentation .........................................................................................................................................................26
Output media......................................................................................................................................................................26
Setting the date and time ...................................................................................................................................................27
9 Function tests.....................................................................................................................................................................28
Batch-related tests .............................................................................................................................................................28
Vacuum test .......................................................................................................................................................................28
Bowie & Dick test ...............................................................................................................................................................28
Checking the quality of the feed water ...............................................................................................................................28

Contents
10 Maintenance......................................................................................................................................................................29
Servicing intervals ..............................................................................................................................................................29
Cleaning .............................................................................................................................................................................29
Maintenance.......................................................................................................................................................................30
11 Operating pauses .............................................................................................................................................................31
Transport............................................................................................................................................................................31
12 Malfunctions .....................................................................................................................................................................33
13 Technical data ..................................................................................................................................................................34

1 General notes
5
1 General notes
Please read this operating manual carefully before commissioning the device. This manual contains impor-
tant safety information. The functionality and value-retention of this device depends on the care accorded
to it. Please store this operating manual carefully and in close proximity to the device. It represents a com-
ponent of the product.
Should the manual no longer be legible, is damaged or has been lost, you can download a new copy from
MELAG download centre at www.melag.com.
Symbols used
Symbol Explanation
Indicates a dangerous situation, which if not avoided, could entail slight to life-
threatening injuries.
Draws your attention to a situation, which if not avoided, could result in damage to the
instruments, the practice fittings or the device.
Draws your attention to important information.
Disposal
MELAG devices are synonymous with high quality and a long life-span. When you eventually need to de-
commission your MELAG device, the required disposal of the device can take place with MELAG in Berlin.
Dispose of accessories and consumption media which you no longer require in the appropriate manner.
Comply with all relevant disposal specification in terms of possibly contaminated waste.
The packaging protects the device against transport damage. The packaging materials have been selec-
ted for their environmentally-friendly disposability and can be recycled. Returning the packaging to the ma-
terial flow reduces the amount of waste and saves raw materials.

2 Safety
6
2 Safety
When operating the device, comply with the following safety instructions as well as those
contained in subsequent chapters. Use the device only for the purpose specified in these
instructions. Failure to comply with the safety instructions can result in injury and/or damage to
the device.
Qualified personnel
nAs with the preceding instrument reprocessing, only competent personnel should undertake steriliza-
tion using this steam sterilizer.
nThe operator must ensure that the users have been trained in the operation and safe handling of the
device.
nThe operator must ensure that users are regularly trained in the operation and safe handling of the de-
vice.
Setup, installation and commissioning
nCheck the device after unpacking for any damage suffered during transport.
nThe device should only be setup, installed and commissioned by MELAG authorized persons.
nThe connections for electrical provision and water supply and discharge must be setup by trained per-
sonnel.
nUsing the optional electronic leak detector (water stop) minimizes the risk of water damage.
nThe device is not suitable for operation in explosive atmospheres.
nInstall and operate the device in a frost-free environment.
nThe device is conceived for use outside the patient area. The device should be located a minimum of
1.5m radius away from the treatment area.
nThe documentation media (computer, CF card reader etc.) must be placed in such a way that they
cannot come into contact with liquids.
nObserve all the information contained in the technical manual during commissioning.
Power cable and power plug
nComply with all legal requirements and locally-specified connection conditions.
nNever operate the device if the plug or power cable are damaged.
nThe power cable or plug should only be replaced by authorized technicians.
nNever damage or alter the power plug or cable.
nNever unplug by pulling on the power cable. Always take a grip on the plug.
nEnsure that the power cable does not become jammed in.
nNever lead the cable along a source of heat.
nNever fix the power cable with sharp objects.
nThe mains socket must be freely accessible after installation so that the device can be disconnected
from the electrical mains at any time if necessary by pulling the mains plug.
Spring safety valve
nThe free movement of the valve rod must be guaranteed. For example, the spring safety valve must
not be taped or blocked. Install the device in such a way that the proper functioning of the spring safe-
ty valve is guaranteed.

2 Safety
7
Reprocessing and sterilization
nFollow the manufacturer’s instructions of your textile articles and instruments regarding their repro-
cessing and sterilization.
nComply with the relevant standards and directives applicable to the reprocessing and sterilization of
textiles and instruments (in Germany e.g. from the RKI and DGSV).
nOnly ever use packaging material and systems which have been cleared by their manufacturer for
steam sterilization.
Program abort
nPlease observe that depending on the time of the program abort, opening the door following a pro-
gram abort can lead to hot steam leaving the sterilization chamber.
nDepending on the time of the program abort, it is possible that the load is unsterile. Observe the clear
instructions shown on the display of the device. Sterilize the affected load after re-wrapping again.
Removing the sterile material
nNever use force to open the door.
nUse a tray lifter to remove the tray. Never touch the sterilized equipment, the chamber, the mount or
the inside of the door with bare hands. The components are hot.
nCheck the packaging on the sterile material for damage when removing it from the steam sterilizer.
Should the packaging be damaged, re-pack the load and re-sterilize it.
Transport and storage
nStore and transport the device in a frost-free environment.
nThe device should always be carried by two people.
nUse suitable carrying straps to carry the device.
Maintenance
nMaintenance should only be performed by authorized technicians.
nMaintain the specified servicing intervals.
nOnly original MELAG spare parts may be used.
Repair
nNever open the device housing. Incorrect opening and repair can compromise electrical safety and
pose a danger to the user. The device may only be opened by an authorised technician who must be
a qualified electrician (according to VDE 0105-100 or IEC 60050).
Malfunctions
nShould the device issue the same malfunction message repeatedly, turn off the device and if neces-
sary, inform your stockist.
nThe device may only be serviced by authorized technicians.
Notification requirement in the event of serious accidents in the European Economic Area
nPlease note that all serious accidents which occur in connection with the medical product (e.g. death
or serious deterioration in the state of health of a patient) which were presumably caused by the
product, must be reported to the manufacturer (MELAG) and the relevant authority of the member
state, in which the user and/or patient resides.

3 Performance specifications
8
3 Performance specifications
Intended use
This steam sterilizer is designed for application in a medical context, e.g. general practitioners and dental
practices. According to EN 13060, this steam sterilizer is considered as a steam sterilizer with type B cy-
cles. As a universal steam sterilizer, it is suited to highly-demanding sterilization tasks. It can be used for a
range of tasks such as the sterilization of large quantities of instruments with narrow lumen and transmis-
sion instruments - both wrapped or unwrapped - and of textiles.
WARNING
Any attempt to sterilize liquids can result in a delay in boiling. This can result in burns
and damage to the device.
nNever use this device to sterilize fluids. It is not licensed for the sterilization of fluids.
Performance characteristics of sterilization programs
The results in this table show which inspections were performed on the steam sterilizer. The marked field
shows compliance with all the applicable sections of the standard EN13060.
Type tests Universal-
Program
Quick-
Program B
Quick-
Program S
Gentle-
Program
Prion-
Program
Program type in accor-
dance with EN13060
Type B Type B Type S Type B Type B
Dynamic pressure test of
the sterilization chamber
X X -- X X
Air leakage X X X X X
Empty chamber test X X X X X
Solid load X X X X X
Porous partial load X -- -- X X
Porous full load X -- -- X X
Simple hollow body
(Hollow body B)
-- -- X -- --
Product with narrow
lumen (Hollow body A)
X X -- X X
Single wrapping X X -- X X
Multiple wrapping X -- -- X X
Drying solid load X X X X X
Drying porous load X -- -- X X
Sterilization temperature 134 °C 134 °C 134 °C 121 °C 134 °C
Sterilization pressure 2.1 bar 2.1 bar 2.1 bar 1.1 bar 2.1 bar
Sterilization time 5:30 min 5:30 min 3:30 min 20:30 min 20:30 min
X = Complies with all applicable sections of the standard EN13060

4 Description of the device
9
4 Description of the device
Views of the device
Front
4
5
2
1
3
1 Operating and display panel
2 Door, swings open to the left
3 Slide locking grip
4 Power switch
5 Front device foot (adjustable)
Rear panel
10
7
6
9
8
12 11
6 Cooling water inflow (3/4” external
thread)
7 Safety combination in accordance
with EN 1717
8 Spring safety valve
9 Sterile filter
10 Cooling water outlet (3/4” external
thread)
11 Feed water inflow from external
water storage container or
MELAdem, swivel screw
connection for hose Ø 6x1
12 Mains connection

4 Description of the device
10
View of the interior
21 20 1819
14
15
13
16
17
13 Sterilization chamber
14 Door locking pin
15 Chamber seal face
16 Cap for emergency activation of
the vacuum pump
17 2x Device fuse
18 Motor protection switch reset
button
19 Serial data and printer connection
(RS232)1)
20 Door seal
21 Round blank
Symbols on the device
Manufacturer of the medical device
Date of manufacture of the medical device
MD
Identifies a medical device
SN
Medical device serial number from the manufacturer
REF
Article number of the medical device
Information about the chamber volume
Operating temperature of the device
Operating pressure of the device
Internal device fuse, rated in amperes [A]
Electrical connection of the device: AC current
1) hidden behind white cover

4 Description of the device
11
The operating manual includes important safety information. Failure to comply with these
instructions can result in injury and material damage.
Please read this operating manual carefully before commissioning the device.
In affixing this CE mark, the manufacturer declares that this medical product fulfils the
basic requirements of the Medical Device Directive. The four-digit number confirms that
this is monitored by an approved certification agency.
In affixing this CE mark, the manufacturer declares that this product fulfils the basic
requirements of the Pressure Equipment Directive. The four-digit number confirms that
this is monitored by an approved certification agency.
The device may not be disposed as domestic waste. The vendor is responsible for
appropriate disposal of the device - it must be delivered to the vendor to be disposed of.
Motor protection switch
With the adjacent label, the device manufacturer declares that the medical product
corresponds to the basic requirements of the European standard EN1717 - Protecting
Drinking Water from Contamination.
Symbols on the power switch
Switching on device
Switching off device

4 Description of the device
12
Operating panel
The operating panel consists of a two-row alphanumerical LC display and four membrane keys.
14:27:12
0,02bar 25 °C
1 2 3
4 5 6
12-row LC display
for displaying the program status and parameters
2 Time (h:min:s)
3 Chamber pressure (bar) and (steam) temperature (°C)
4Function keys '-' and '+'
for the selection, setting and display of special functions: print, date/time, preheating, total batches,
conductivity, acknowledge error, key '+' for unlocking the door
5Program selection key 'P'
for selecting the sterilization program / test program and selection / setting of the options
(submenus) of the special functions
6Start – Stop key 'S'
for starting programs, aborting programs / drying and controlling the special functions
Initial state
Each time the device is switched on, the display changes to the initial state, showing the current time, the
chamber pressure in bar and the (steam) temperature in °C.
Load mounts
For detailed information about the different mounts, how to combine them with different load holders and
how to use them, please refer to the separate document “User manual: Accessories for small steam steri-
lizers”.
Mount A Plus
The mount (A Plus) is standard and can
accommodate either five trays or three MELAstore
Boxes 100 when turned 90°.
Mount D
The mount (D) can accommodate two tall
sterilization containers (e.g. MELAstore Box 200) or
four trays (when turned 90°).

5 Installation requirements
13
5 Installation requirements
Installation location
WARNING
Failure to comply with the set-up conditions can result in injuries and/or damage to the
steam sterilizer.
nThe steam sterilizer should only be setup, installed and commissioned by persons
authorized by MELAG.
nThe steam sterilizer is not suitable for operation in explosive atmospheres.
nThe steam sterilizer is conceived for use outside the patient area. The device should be
located a minimum of 1.5m radius away from the treatment area.
Property Vacuklav 24 B+ Vacuklav 30 B+
Installation surface level and horizontal
Installation location interior of a building (dry and protected from dust)
Floor loading (normal operation) 2.6 kN/m² 3.1 kN/m²
Max. floor loading (hydraulic
pressure test)
3.3 kN/m² 3.8 kN/m²
Max. altitude 2000 m
Waste heat (with max. load) 0.6 kWh
Ambient temperature 5-40 °C (recommended max. 25 °C)
Relative humidity max. 80 % at 31 °C, decreases in a linear fashion up to max. 50 %
relative humidity at 40 °C
Steam egress can occur during operation. Do not set up the device in the immediate proximity of a smoke
detector. Maintain clearance from materials which could suffer damage from steam.
Electromagnetic environments
When assessing the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) of this device, the emitted interference threshold
values for Class B devices and the stability for operation in an electromagnetic environment as described
in IEC 61326-1 were taken as the basis. The device is thus suitable for operation in all institutions and
domestic settings connected to a public mains power supply. The floor should be made of wood or con-
crete or be tiled with ceramic tiling. If the floor is fitted with synthetic material, the relative humidity must
amount to a minimum of 30%.

5 Installation requirements
14
Space requirements
Fig.1: View from the front, the right and above
Dimensions Vacuklav 24 B+ Vacuklav 30 B+
Width A 42.5 cm
Height B 49.5 cm
Depth, total*)C 70.5 cm 66 cm
Clearance between the device feet C143.5 cm 32 cm
Clearance from rear device foot up to the rear panel C210 cm 18 cm
Min. clearance to the side D15 cm
Min. clearance to the side of the door hinge D210 cm
Min. clearance to the rear E 5 cm
Free area with a fully-opened door F 62.5 cm 58 cm
Min. clearance to the top G 5 cm
*) including safety combination in accordance with EN 1717
Maintain the side clearances when installing the steam sterilizer.

5 Installation requirements
15
Additional space requirement for the feed water supply
Additional space is required for a storage container or a water treatment unit. It is also necessary to
guarantee free access to the hoses and cables leading from the steam sterilizer to the water treatment
unit.
Space
requirements
MELAdem 40 MELAdem 47 Storage
container
Water treatment unit Pressure tank
Width 32 cm 40 cm -- 21 cm
Height 35 cm 46 cm 40 cm 38 cm
Depth 16 cm 18 cm -- 23 cm
Diameter -- -- approx. 28 cm --

6 Installation
16
6 Installation
Setup and installation
PLEASE NOTE
Comply with the specifications of the technical manual during setup and installation.
This contains all building-side requirements.
Record of installation and setup
The record of installation and setup is to be completed by the responsible stockist and a copy sent to
MELAG as proof of the correct setup, installation and initial commissioning. This is a constituent part of
any guarantee claim.
Aligning the steam sterilizer
To ensure fault-free operation, the steam sterilizer must be set up horizontally with the aid of a spirit level
placed on the chamber seal face. Then extend the fore device feet by five (Vacuklav24B+) or three
(Vacuklav30B+) revolutions to effect a slight rearwards slope of the device.
Mains supply
Implement the following safety measures when dealing with the cable and power plug:
uNever damage or alter the power plug or cable.
uNever bend or twist the power cable.
uNever remove the plug by pulling on the power cable. Always take a grip on the plug.
uNever place any heavy objects on the power cable.
uNever run the power cable over areas in which it could become trapped (e.g. doors or windows).
uNever lead the cable along a source of heat.
uNever use any nails, paper fasteners or similar objects to fix the cable.
uShould the power plug or cable suffer damage, switch off the device. The power cable or plug
should only be replaced by authorised technicians.
uThe mains socket must be freely accessible after installation so that the steam sterilizer can be
disconnected from the electricity supply at any time.
On-site requirements of the mains connection
Property
Electricity supply 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz
Max. voltage range 207-253 V
Building fuses separate power circuit with 16 A fuse, 30 mA RCD protection (to guarantee
continued practice operation during steam sterilizer malfunction)
Length of power cable*)1.35 m
Other additional socket for the MELAprint42/44 log printer etc.
*) Comply with the specifications in the connection diagram.

6 Installation
17
Water connection
Cooling water Feed water Wastewater
Connection in the
practice
To the cooling water cut-
off valve (water inflow
tap) G3/4“
To a water treatment
unit, e.g.
MELAdem40/47
Wall outlet, nominal
width DN 40 or to a
siphon (flush outflow)
Installation height -- -- min. 30 cm under the
steam sterilizer
Max. water temperature 20 °C (ideal 15 °C) 35 °C short-term 90 °C
Max. flow rate -- -- short-term approx.
3.3 l/min
Min. flow pressure > 1.2 bar at 3 l/min corresponding to the
water treatment unit
--
Recommended flow
pressure
2.0-4.0 bar at 3 l/min 1.5 bar at 3 l/min --
Min. water pressure
(static)
-- corresponding to the
water treatment unit
--
Max. water pressure
(static)
10 bar 10 bar --
Max. water
consumption2)
approx. 57.5 l approx. 720 ml (24 B+)
approx. 770 ml (30 B+)
--
Water quality drinking water Distilled or demineralised
water in accordance with
EN 13060, Appendix C
--
Measures for protecting
the drinking water
None (internal precautions against back-flow into the drinking water supply via
safety combination consisting of a back-flow preventer and pipe aerator;
secured in accordance with EN 1717)
Connection of a water treatment unit
MELAdem 40 MELAdem 47
Permissible water
pressure
1.5-10 bar 2-6 bar
Water stop For insurance reasons, MELAG recommends the installation of a water stop
with a cut-off valve (e.g. from MELAG), as the MELAdem 40 / MELAdem 47
are under constant water pressure from the domestic water supply.
PLEASE NOTE
The outlet hose must be fitted at a constant decline without kinks or sagging. Deviations
to the installation arrangements require consultation with MELAG.
Failure to do so can result in malfunctions of the steam sterilizer.
Feed water supply
Steam sterilization requires the use of distilled or demineralized water, known as feed water. Annex C of
EN13060 specifies the guideline values to be observed.
The supply with feed water is effected either via an external water storage container, which must be filled
periodically with water of the corresponding quality, or via a water treatment unit (e.g. MELAdem 40/
MELAdem 47).
2) In the Prion program with porous full load.

7 Sterilization
18
7 Sterilization
Switching on the steam sterilizer
ü The steam sterilizer is connected to the electricity supply.
ü The door is closed.
}The steam sterilizer is switched on at the power switch.
ÊThe display switches between the initial state and the messageUnlock door with '+' key, as
long as the door is closed.
PLEASE NOTE
Remove all accessories from the sterilization chamber directly after switching on for the
first time and before initial commissioning.
After device activation, a heating up time of approx. 5 min (Vacuklav24B+) or approx. 3 min
(Vacuklav30B+) is required depending on the device type. A program will be started only after the target
temperature has been reached.
PLEASE NOTE
When switching off the device via the power switch, wait 3s before switching it back on.
Preparing the load
Always clean and disinfect properly before sterilization. Only in this way is it possible to guarantee the sub-
sequent sterilization of the load. The materials used, cleaning agents and reprocessing procedure are of
decisive significance.
NOTICE
Only ever operate the steam sterilizer with a sterile filter inserted.
Reprocessing textiles
WARNING
The incorrect reprocessing of textiles, e.g. a textile package can prevent steam
penetration or produce poor drying results.
The textiles could not be sterilized.
Comply with the following points when reprocessing textiles and putting the textiles in sterilization contain-
ers:
uComply with both the manufacturer's instructions of the textiles regarding reprocessing and
sterilization as well as the relevant standards and directives (in Germany e.g. from the RKI and
DGSV).
uArrange the folds in the textiles parallel to each other.
uStack textiles vertically wherever possible and not too closely together in the sterilization
container. This enables the development of flow channels.
uIf textile packages do not remain together, wrap the textiles in sterilization paper.

7 Sterilization
19
uOnly ever sterilize dry textiles.
uThe textiles may not be permitted to come into direct contact with the sterilization chamber;
otherwise they will become saturated with condensate.
Reprocessing the instruments
Unwrapped sterile material loses its sterility on contact with ambient air. If you intend to store your instru-
ments sterilely, wrap them in suitable packaging before sterilization.
Ensure the following when reprocessing used and brand-new instruments:
uObserve both the instrument manufacturer’s instructions regarding reprocessing and sterilization
as well as the relevant standards and directives (in Germany, for example, from RKI, DGSV and
DGUV Regulation 1).
uClean the instruments exceptionally thoroughly e.g. using an ultrasonic device or washer-
disinfector.
uRinse the instruments after cleaning and disinfecting, where possible with demineralised or
distilled water and then dry the instruments thoroughly with a clean, non-fuzzing cloth.
uUse only those care agents suitable for steam sterilization. Consult the manufacturer of the care
agents. Do not use any water repellent agents or oils impermeable to steam.
uWhen using ultrasonic devices, care equipment for handpieces and washer-disinfectors, comply
with the manufacturer’s reprocessing instructions.
NOTICE
The presence of residual disinfection and cleaning fluids results in corrosion.
This could result in increased maintenance requirements and a restriction of the steam
sterilizer function.
Frequency of sterilization
Pause times between the individual programs are not necessary, as the sterilization chamber is main-
tained permanently at the same temperature. After the end/abort of the drying time and removal of the
sterile material, you can load the steam sterilizer again and start a new program.
Loading the steam sterilizer
Effective sterilization and good drying is only possible if the steam sterilizer has been loaded correctly.
Ensure the following during loading:
uInsert trays or sterilization containers in the chamber only with their appropriate mount.
Sterilization container
Sterilization container
Sterilization container
Tray
Tray
Tray
uUse perforated trays such as those from MELAG. Only in this way
can condensate drain off. Non-perforated bases or half-shells for
holding the sterilization material lead to poor drying results.
uThe use of paper tray inserts can result in poor drying results.
uWherever possible, ensure the separate sterilization of textiles and instruments in separate
sterilization containers or sterilization packaging. This leads to better drying results.

7 Sterilization
20
Packaging
Only ever use packaging materials and systems (sterile barrier systems) which fulfil the standard
ENISO11607-1. The correct use of suitable packaging is important in achieving successful sterilization
results. You can use re-usable rigid packaging systems or soft packaging such as transparent sterilization
packaging, paper bags, sterilization paper, textiles or fleece.
Closed sterilization containers
WARNING
Risk of contamination due to insufficient steam penetration or poor drying.
nUse only suitable sterilization containers.
nDo not cover the perforations when stacking the sterilization containers so that the
condensate can drain off.
Please comply with the following when using closed sterilization containers:
uUse aluminium sterilization containers. Aluminium retains and conducts heat and thus accelerates
drying.
uClosed sterilization containers must be either perforated or have a valve on at least one side.
MELAG sterilization containers (e.g. MELAstore Boxes) fulfil the requirements for successful
sterilization and drying.
uWherever possible, ensure that sterilization containers are only stacked on top of those of
identical size, so that the condensate can run down their sides.
uEnsure that the perforations are not covered when stacking the containers.
Tip: MELAG sterilization containers fulfil the requirements of EN868-8 for successful sterilization and dry-
ing. They have a perforated lid and base and are fitted with disposable paper filters.
Soft sterilization packaging
Soft sterilization packaging can be used in both sterilization containers and on trays. Please comply with
the following when using soft sterilization packaging e.g. MELAfol:
uArrange soft sterilization packaging in a perpendicular position and at narrow intervals.
uPlace transparent sterilization packages on their edge wherever possible and with the paper side
facing downwards.
uDo not place multiple soft sterilization packages flat on top of each other on a tray or in a
container.
uWhen loading the steam sterilizer, make sure that either the film or paper sides of different bags
are facing each other.
uIf the seam seal tears during sterilization, this could be caused by the choice of undersized
packaging. Re-pack the instruments with larger packaging and perform sterilization again.
uShould the seam seal rip during sterilization, extend the sealing pulse on the sealing device or
make a double seam.
Multiple wrapping
The device works with a fractionated vacuum procedure. This permits the use of multiple wrapping.