MELAG Vacuklav 24-B/L User manual

User Manual
for the
Autoclave
Vacuklav24-B/L
Dear Doctor:
Thank you very much for the trust which you have shown by purchasing this autoclave.
For more than 55 years now, MELAG — a medium-sized family-owned and -operated
company — has specialized in the production of sterilization equipment for medical
practice. During this period, MELAG has succeeded in becoming a leading manufacturer
of sterilization equipment. More than 400,000 MELAG units sold throughout the world
testify to the exceptional quality of our sterilizers. — which are manufactured exclusively
in Germany.
As all other MELAG products, this autoclave was manufactured and tested according to
strict quality criteria. Before placing this unit into operation, please read this User Manual
carefully. The long-term functional effectiveness and the preservation of the value of your
autoclave will depend on careful preparation of instruments before sterilization, and on
proper care of the unit.
The staff and management of MELAG

Page 2
To ensure the functional effectiveness of this
unit and to preserve its value:
1. Prepare the instruments to be sterilized carefully
2. Take proper care of the autoclave
3. Use only pure distilled or demineralised water
1.1 Views of the unit...................................................................................................................................4
1.2 Control panel........................................................................................................................................5
1.3 Technical data ......................................................................................................................................5
1.4 Performance features of this autoclave.............................................................................................5
1.4.1 Fractionating pulsed vacuum procedure.........................................................................................5
1.4.2 Programs for sterilization................................................................................................................5
1.4.3 Separate steam generation.............................................................................................................5
1.4.4 One-way system/ Conductivity measurement/ Automatic water supply.........................................5
1.4.5 Electronic Parameter Control (EPS)...............................................................................................6
1.4.6 Vacuum drying................................................................................................................................6
1.4.7 Pre-heating .....................................................................................................................................6
1.4.8 Documentation................................................................................................................................6
2Installation....................................................................................................................................................6
2.1 Setting up the autoclave......................................................................................................................6
2.2 Transport ribbons ................................................................................................................................6
Levelling the autoclave....................................................................................................................................7
2.3 Power supply........................................................................................................................................8
2.4 Cooling water inlet connection...........................................................................................................8
2.5 Cooling water outlet connection ........................................................................................................8
2.6 Connection of the feed water storage container ..............................................................................8
2.7 Connection of a water purification system .......................................................................................8
3Initial start-up...............................................................................................................................................8
3.1 Printer connection/ Initialisation (optional).......................................................................................8
3.1.1 Connecting the MELAprint®42........................................................................................................8
3.1.2 Initialisation of the printer / Setting up immediate print-out.............................................................8
3.2 Vacuum test..........................................................................................................................................9
3.3 Test run...............................................................................................................................................10
3.4 Installation record..............................................................................................................................10
3.5 Safety instructions.............................................................................................................................10
4Instructions for all sterilization procedures...........................................................................................11
4.1 Electricity and water supplies...........................................................................................................11
4.1.1 Cooling water and purified feed water..........................................................................................11
4.1.2 Power supply ................................................................................................................................11
4.2 Loading the autoclave .......................................................................................................................11
4.3 Closing the door.................................................................................................................................12
4.4 Program selection..............................................................................................................................12
4.5 Program start......................................................................................................................................13
4.6 Program progress..............................................................................................................................13
4.7 Print-out record..................................................................................................................................15
4.8 Removing the sterilized items ..........................................................................................................15
4.9 Sterile storage ....................................................................................................................................15
4.10 Sterilization frequency / pauses.......................................................................................................16
4.11 Manual termination of program........................................................................................................16
4.11.1 Termination of sterilization/ disinfection........................................................................................16
4.11.2 Terminate drying...........................................................................................................................17
4.12 Reaction to warnings / error messages...........................................................................................18
4.13 Operational pauses............................................................................................................................18
5Closing down / Transport / Reinstallation ..............................................................................................18
6Special functions.......................................................................................................................................19
6.1 Water quality (conductivity)/ Chamber temperature ......................................................................19
6.2 Selecting extra drying........................................................................................................................19

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 3
6.3 Records / Load documentation ........................................................................................................19
6.3.1 Record print-out............................................................................................................................19
6.3.1.1 External printer......................................................................................................................................19
6.3.1.1.1 Connecting the external Melaprint®42 printer ...................................................................19
6.3.1.1.2 Initialising the printer...........................................................................................................20
6.3.1.2 Connection to an external PC.............................................................................................................21
6.3.1.2.1 Installation.............................................................................................................................21
6.3.1.2.2 Downloading to a PC............................................................................................................21
6.3.1.3 No printer................................................................................................................................................21
6.3.2 Immed. print-out? Yes/No.............................................................................................................21
6.3.3 Printing out stored records............................................................................................................22
6.3.4 Print all stored cycle records.........................................................................................................23
6.3.5 Display printer memory.................................................................................................................24
6.3.6 Deleting cycle records...................................................................................................................25
6.3.7 Test print-out.................................................................................................................................26
6.4 Resetting date and time.....................................................................................................................27
6.5 Automatic preheating........................................................................................................................29
6.6 Total load count .................................................................................................................................30
6.7 Program modifications......................................................................................................................30
7Operational errors / Malfunctions............................................................................................................31
7.1 What to do if the autoclave malfunctions........................................................................................31
7.2 Malfunctions without display messages .........................................................................................31
7.2.1 No display .....................................................................................................................................31
7.2.2 Excessive water consumption.......................................................................................................31
7.2.3 Poor drying....................................................................................................................................31
7.3 Warning messages ............................................................................................................................32
7.4 Error reports.......................................................................................................................................35
8Taking care of your autoclave..................................................................................................................37
8.1 Preparation of instruments...............................................................................................................37
8.2 Rust formation = Drag-in rust...........................................................................................................38
8.3 Taking care of the Vacuklav®24-B/L.................................................................................................38
8.3.1 Cleaning........................................................................................................................................38
8.3.2 Use of demineralised or distilled water.........................................................................................38
8.4 Checking the operation of the autoclave.........................................................................................39
8.4.1 Safety with automatic monitoring..................................................................................................39
8.4.2 Periodical bacteriological testing (twice a year)............................................................................39
8.4.3 Maintenance recommendations....................................................................................................39
9Annex..........................................................................................................................................................40
9.1 Installation options ............................................................................................................................40
9.2 Additional technical data...................................................................................................................41
9.2.1 Capacity/Weight............................................................................................................................41
9.2.2 External supplies...........................................................................................................................41
9.2.3 Operational parameters................................................................................................................41
9.2.3.1 Programs/ Operation times..................................................................................................................41
9.2.3.2 Energy/ Water consumption................................................................................................................41
9.3 Instructions on drying .......................................................................................................................42
9.3.1 Drying in sterilization containers...................................................................................................42
9.3.2 Textiles..........................................................................................................................................43
9.3.3 Instruments ...................................................................................................................................44
9.3.4 Loading the autoclave...................................................................................................................44
9.3.5 Loading containers with soft sterilization packing material...........................................................44
9.3.6 Stacking sterilization containers ...................................................................................................45
9.3.7 Removing the sterilized items.......................................................................................................45
9.3.8 Improving the drying .....................................................................................................................45

Page 4
Description of the unit
1.1 Views of the unit ______________________________________________________
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
12
13
14
11
Front view
Rear view
Side view
Fig. 1 Views of the Vacuklav®24-B/L
1 Safety valve 9 Fuses - 2 x 16 A / FF
2 Sterile filter 10 Power switch
3 Cooling water inlet (3/4" external thread) 11 Motor circuit breaker (vacuum pump)
4 Cooling water outlet (3/4" external thread) 12 Sliding door lock
13 Door (left-side hinge)5 Purified water inlet
(Swivel connection for 6x1 pipe) 14 Control panel
6 Mains power cable
7 Adjustable front feet
8 Serial data and printer port
(RS 232)

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 5
1.2 Control panel _______________________________________________________
Fig. 2 Control panel Vacuklav24-B/L
1.3 Technical data ______________________________________________________
Sterilization space (diameter x depth) : 25cm x 60cm
Electric power supply : 2500W / 230V AC / 10.9A / 50....60Hz
Sterilization pressure / temperature : 2bar/134°C; 1bar/121°C
Maximum load: : 7kg instruments or 2,5kg textiles
Further technical details are included in the Annex
1.4 Performance features of this autoclave _________________________________
1.4.1 Fractionating pulsed vacuum procedure______________________________________________
A fractionating pulsed vacuum method involved the repeated evacuation of the sterilization chamber,
alternating with the introduction of steam in order to ensure the necessary penetration of the items undergoing
sterilization with superheated steam.
This means that even demanding sterilization tasks, involving for example intricate instruments or large
amounts of textiles can be completed quickly and reliably.
Steam penetration can be demonstrated using the established Bowie & Dick Test, for which a special test
program can be implemented.
1.4.2 Programs for sterilization __________________________________________________________
The Vacuklav®24-B/L features three sterilization programs for temperatures at 134°C: the “Universal Program”
(for wrapped objects), the “Prion Program” (a special Universal Program), the “Fast Program” for unwrapped
items, and the “Gentle Program” (a sterilization program for textiles and rubber articles at 121°C). The user
can at any time perform additional functional checks of the autoclave by running the Bowie & Dick Test for
steam penetration, and the Vacuum Test for leak testing. The additional program "MELAsteam®" is available
as an option, and functions at a temperature of 136°C.
1.4.3 Separate steam generation _________________________________________________________
The generation of steam by a high-performance unit outside the sterilization chamber makes it is possible to
sterilise large loads of instruments or textiles quickly. It is not necessary to have any pauses between the
sterilization runs, and overheating in the sterilization chamber is impossible.
1.4.4 One-way system/ Conductivity measurement/ Automatic water supply_____________________
The Vacuklav®24-B/L operates with a reliable one-way system, in which all the condensate from a sterilization,
including any impurities which this may contain is completely eliminated and purified water used for the next
program run.
An integrated conductivity measurement system monitors the quality of the distilled or demineralised water
used for the steam generation.
For frequent operations, the larger demand for purified water can be met by a water purifier, e.g.
MELAdem®47 or MELAdem®40, which can be directly connected to the autoclave.
Provided the instruments to be sterilized are then also prepared carefully, stains on the load and soiling of the
autoclave itself can be prevented.
Program Start - Stop
Buttons for selecting, adjusting and
displaying special functions:
Printing, date/time, pre-heating,
total loads, conductivity, re-setting
Program selection
for sterilization programs/ test programs
and for selecting options (sub-menus) of the
special functions
Start - stop buttons to start
and interrupt programs,
drying, and to control special
functions
2 x 20-alphanumeric LED-display, showing
program status, and parameters for basic
and special functions

Page 6
1.4.5 Electronic Parameter Control (EPS) __________________________________________________
The microprocessor in the Vacuklav®24-B/L makes it possible to monitor pressure, temperature and time
continuously during a program by Electronic Parameter Control The overall operating time can then be
optimised according the load and the temperature of the autoclave.
The process assessment and monitoring system in the program control compare current process parameters
with standard process data and monitors the process relative to limit values for temperatures, times and
pressures. This makes it possible to identify faults as they occur, and provides quality assurance for the
sterilization and disinfection processes.
1.4.6 Vacuum drying ___________________________________________________________________
Vacuum drying ensures the best possible drying results for packed utensils.
1.4.7 Pre-heating ______________________________________________________________________
By activating the "pre-heating" function, the cold autoclave chamber can be warmed up before sterilization, or
the temperature can be maintained between sterilization runs. This reduces the duration of cycles and
considerably reduces the formation of condensation, thus improving drying results.
1.4.8 Documentation __________________________________________________________________
The electronic memory stores records of the previous 40 programs.
For effective hard-copy documentation and for checking purposes a MELAprint®42 printer can be connected to
print out a record immediately after completion of a program or to print out records from the memory.
2 Installation
When setting-up and installing the autoclave, please consult the separate instructions leaflet "Installing the
Vacuklav®24-B/L".
2.1 Setting up the autoclave______________________________________________
The autoclave should be set up in a dry place which is protected against dust.
The base should be stable, and able to support the weight of the appliance (unloaded weight 43 kg).
The space required by the autoclave can be seen by the external dimensions (as in Section 1.1). A minimum
additional space of 10 cm should be allowed on either side and above the autoclave in order to ensure that
heat can escape.
The electrical power supply should be a separate 230V AC circuit with a 16 A fuse.
The cooling water should be obtained from a mains water supply, to which the autoclave is connected by
means of a water tap or stop cock with a 3/4" external thread. This water supply should be accessible close to
point where the autoclave is set up. (The standard connection pipe supplied is 2 m long)
The disposal of the cooling water outflow requires either a wall-outlet (NW 40) or a sink outflow, and this
should also be situated close to the autoclave (the standard 16 mm connection pipe provided is 2m long). The
outflow must be lower than the working surface on which the autoclave stands, so that the outflow pipe can be
installed without bends and kinks, ensuring a constant downward flow. The autoclave should set-up at a level
which allows easy loading and at which the display can be read clearly without bending.
The autoclave must also be supplied with purified water for steam generation. The distilled or demineralised
water can come either from a storage container (MELAG Art.-No. 244) or directly from the container in which
purchased water is supplied. This should also be situated close to the autoclave (length of feed pipe supplied
1.5m, maximum height difference 1.5 m). If the purified water comes directly from a water purification system
MELAdem®47 or MELAdem®40 (or another purification system) then a storage container is not necessary, but
space must be allowed to accommodate the water purification system.
2.2 Transport ribbons ___________________________________________________
Take the autoclave out of the packaging by means of the transport ribbons. The ribbons themselves are each
removed by undoing the two retaining screws, which must then be screwed firmly back in place without
washers.

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 7
Levelling the autoclave ____________________________________________________
In order to ensure that condensate can drain out of the autoclave (which is important if it is to operate properly)
the appliance must have be clearly higher at the front than at the back. The autoclave should first be installed
in a horizontal position (this should be checked with a spirit level at the chamber flange) and then the front feet
should be extended by giving them at least seven (7) turns.
6
3
2
4
8
9
10
1
7
5
11
210x230
340
Fig. 3 Typical installation of the Vacuklav24-B/L with storage container for distilled/demineralised water, with
a wall-mounted trap
1 Vacuklav24-B/L rear view
2 Cooling water inlet pipe (pressure pipe)
3 Cooling water outlet pipe DN16
4 Power connection
5 Water stop cock with safety combination in accordance with DIN 1988 (MELAG Art.-No.: 37310)
6 Leak detector with stop valve and sensor (MELAG Art.-No.: 1056)
7 Wall- mounted trap (MELAG- Art.- No.: 37410)
8 Wall outlet (NW 40)
9 Storage container for distilled or demineralised water (MELAG Art.-No.: 244)
10 Feed water intake with filter
11 Y-junction with non-return valve (included in (6))

Page 8
2.3 Power supply ______________________________________________________
The electric cable of the appliance is plugged into a mains socket rated at 230 V, 50 Hz. The power rating of
the autoclave is 2500 W. In order to avoid overloading the electricity supply, we recommend using a separate
electrical circuit fitted with a 16 A fuse and optionally protected with a 30mA circuit breaker.
2.4 Cooling water inlet connection _______________________________________
The connection for the cooling water inlet at the back of the appliance is connected to the mains water supply
using the pressure pipe supplied (see page 7, Fig. 3.). Make sure that the washers are fitted correctly.
In order to avoid water damage in the event of leaks, we also recommend the installation of a leak detector
("Water-stop", MELAG-Art.-No.:1056).
2.5 Cooling water outlet connection _________________________________________
The connection for the cooling water outlet at the back of the appliance is connected to the drainage system of
the building by means of the outlet pipe supplied (textile-reinforced transparent pipe, DN16). It is important that
the pipe should have a steady downward gradient, without twists and kinks.
When connecting to an existing sink outflow, the use of the double-chamber trap supplied helps to reduce
noise due to water discharging.
When connecting to a separate outflow pipe NW40, a wall-mounted trap should be used (MELAG Art.-No.
37410, see Fig. 3).
2.6 Connection of the feed water storage container __________________________
If the autoclave is to be supplied with distilled or demineralised water from a storage container (see Fig. 3)
then this will be drawn up through the suction pipe. The one end of the pipe is attached to the inlet at the rear
of the autoclave, either directly or by means of the swivel connection. The pipe is then fed into the storage
container until its other end with the inlet filter reaches the bottom.
If you use the MELAG storage container (MELAG Art.-No.: 244) you will find the necessary instructions on the
label. This container has a volume of 11.5 litres, enough for an average of 25 sterilization cycles.
2.7 Connection of a water purification system_______________________________
The autoclave can be connected directly to a water purification unit which provides the demineralised or
distilled water required (see page 39, Fig. 4). Instead of connecting the feed water inlet to a storage container,
it is simply connected directly to the water purification unit.
The reverse-osmosis systems MELAdem®47 and MELAdem®40 are ideally suited to provide the quantity and
quality of water needed for the Vacuklav®24-B/L.
Detailed instructions on the installation of these water purification units are provided in their Operating
Manuals.
When connecting water purification systems from other manufacturers it is very important to ensure that they
are able to provide sufficient amounts of water at the required purity. You are generally advised to consult
MELAG first.
3 Initial start-up
3.1 Printer connection/ Initialisation (optional)_______________________________
3.1.1 Connecting the MELAprint®42_______________________________________________________
The autoclave can be connected to an external printer, the MELAprint®42. This is not supplied as standard
with the autoclave.
In order to connect the printer to the autoclave follow the description in Section 6.3.1.1.1.
3.1.2 Initialisation of the printer / Setting up immediate print-out_______________________________
Initialise the external printer (registering with the processing unit of the autoclave) as described in Section
6.3.1.1.2. In order to select the immediate print-out option, which means that a record of each sterilization is
printed out automatically as soon as it has finished, proceed as described in Section 6.3.1.3.

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 9
3.2 Vacuum test ________________________________________________________
In order to check the operation of the autoclave in the course of the initial start-up, after long periods without
being used, or after moves, as well as periodically during routine use, a vacuum test should be carried out to
check for leaks.
The vacuum test should be carried out as follows, preferably on the cold autoclave:
Operation Display message
1. Switch on power, then
after the message
the display will show
the basic parameters
2. Press the "Program"
button several times
until the display shows
"Vacuum test"
3. Close the door
4. Press "Start - Stop"
button
5. The evacuation
pressure has been
reached.
The equalisation period
begins
6. After waiting for the
equalisation (5 min) the
measuring period starts
(running here e.g. for
7min 52s)
7. After the measuring
period (10 min) the
chamber is ventilated
and
then the leakage rate is
displayed
(if the immediate
printout option is
selected for an
attached printer then a
record will also be
printed)
After the message
"Please wait Door
release" this alternating
message will appear:
Program Start-Stop
Leak rate
0.2 mbar
Program Start-Stop
Ventilation
-0.56 bar 25 °C
Program Start-Stop
Vacuumtest
Program Start-Stop
Door
closed
Program Start-Stop
Vacuumtest: Start
Pressure 980mbar
Program Start-Stop
Vacuumtest 00:00
Pressure 80mbar
Program Start-Stop
Vacuumtest 07:52
Pressure 82mbar
Open door
please
Program Start-Stop
Program Start-Stop
Please wait
Door unlocking
Program Start-Stop
14:27:12
0.02bar 25°C

Page 10
Operation Display message
8. Open door
If the leakage rate is above the limit value, then the display (and the print-out) will also show "Test
unsuccessful". In this case, follow the instruction in Section 7.3.
3.3 Test run____________________________________________________________
In order to check the operation of the autoclave under realistic conditions, a test run should be carried out with
the "Universal Program, 134°C wrapped" and a relevant load. After loading the autoclave and selecting the
program with the "Program" button, sterilization is started by pushing the "Start/Stop“ button. If the program
runs correctly, the following message will appear on the display (see Section 4.6 ):
with the values for the maximum values for pressure and temperature. If the immediate printout option has
been selected for an external printer a record of the program run will be printed.
3.4 Installation record ___________________________________________________
As documentation that the autoclave has been set-up properly, an installation record should be produced by
an authorised person and a copy sent to MELAG. This is important in the event that you wish to make claims
under warranty provisions.
3.5 Safety instructions __________________________________________________
When opening the door, particularly after interrupting the drying process, residual steam can escape from
the autoclave chamber.
After opening the door, do not touch any metal surfaces - these will be hot! Danger of burns. Always use
the tray lifter to remove trays, or wear suitable hand protectors when taking out other items
We recommend the installation of a water leak detector (see installation details Section 2).
If you intend to install a water purification unit from another manufacturer, then consult MELAG before you
do so.
The appliance is not suitable for sterilising liquids.
Under current VDE-regulations, this appliances is not suited for use in areas where there are risks of
explosion.
The appliance must only be serviced and repaired by MELAG or by its authorised representatives
(specialist dealers or customer services) using only original parts and following service instructions.
Before opening the housing always disconnect from the mains power supply!
In order to ensure effective sterilization with the autoclave observe the instructions in this User Manual, and
in particular ensure that the loading of the autoclave is appropriate for the program selected.
Program Start-Stop
Vacuumtest
Universal-progr.
run successfully
Program Start-Stop

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 11
4 Instructions for all sterilization procedures
4.1 Electricity and water supplies ________________________________________
4.1.1 Cooling water and purified feed water_______________________________________________
The autoclave automatically monitors the availability of cooling water and purified water, as well as the quality
of the distilled / demineralised water before starting a program.
In order to allow an immediate program start and to avoid error reports or interruptions of programs (see
Sections: 7.3 and 0):
Before the first sterilization at the start of the working day, check that the water supply is turned on (stop
cock)
If purified feed water is drawn from a storage container, check the water level, and if necessary fill up with
purified water of appropriate quality (see Section 8.3.2)
If the feed water is drawn directly from a MELAdem®47 water purifier, check that its water supply is turned
on in good time (this may be up to an hour before starting a sterilization program), if the water supply has
been turned off over night, for example.
4.1.2 Power supply ___________________________________________________________________
Switch on the power using the switch on the front of the autoclave (bottom right). About 15 seconds after the
message "Please wait Door release“ the appliance is in the start status:
4.2 Loading the autoclave_______________________________________________
It is of crucial importance for effective sterilization and good drying that the autoclave is loaded properly:
Tray rack
For the Vacuklav®24-B/L there are 2 types of tray rack:
Type "B" (MELAG-Art.-No.: 40224) for up to 4 trays or 4 standard tray-cassettes.
Type "C" (MELAG-Art.-No.: 40242) for up to 6 trays or 3 standard tray-cassettes.
Both types of tray rack are also suitable for the MELAG-sterilization containers Type 15K,M,G;
Type 17K,M,G,R; Type 23M,G,R, Type 28 M,G.
Normally, the autoclave should be used in conjunction with a tray rack, since this ensures that steam
penetration and drying are as good as. In exceptional situations (e.g. when using sterilization containers from
other manufacturers), and after consultation with your specialist dealer or with MELAG, the tray rack can be
removed and the container can be placed directly in the autoclave chamber.
Trays
Trays for objects which are to be sterilized must be perforated, in order to allow condensate to run away.
MELAG-trays are recommended. If you use dishes or trays without perforations, then the objects being
sterilized will not dry properly.
Enclosed sterilization containers
Enclosed sterilization containers must be perforated on at least one side (preferably underneath) or must have
valves, in order to ensure that steam can penetrate and condensate can run out. All MELAG-sterilization
containers meet these requirements with perforations on two sides and filter-cloth- inlays.
Sterilization containers which only have perforations on the top only allow limited drying.
If sterilization containers are stacked in the autoclave, it is important to ensure that the perforations are not
blocked.
Transparent sterilization packaging
If you use transparent sterilization packaging, such as MELAfol® , then the items should if possible be stood
vertically on the tray, or sterilized in foil holders (MELAG-Art.-No.: 22420). They should never be laid flat one
on top of the other.
If seals split open during sterilization it may be necessary to increase the length of the sealing impulse or to
use a double-seal.
Standard tray- cassettes sealed in MELAfol®(250 mm wide) must be taped and clasped additionally to ensure
that the side-seals do not split open.
Multiple wrapping
The pulsed vacuum method means it is possible to use multiple wrapping.
Time (24-hour)
Chamber pressure (bar)
(steam)-temperature (°C)
Program Start-Stop
14:27:12
0.02bar 25°C

Page 12
Maximum loads
Loads should not exceed 7kg of instruments or 2.5kg of textiles.
Mixed loads
If mixed loads of textiles and instruments are to be sterilized, then as far as possible the textiles should be
above the instruments and direct contact with the instruments should be avoided.
Inclusion of textiles and instruments in the same sterilization container is not desirable.
Textiles should never come into direct contact with the walls of the chamber.
If different types of packaging are included in a load, then:
Instruments and sterilization containers should be at the bottom
Transparent and paper sterilization packaging should be at the top (but lower than textiles)
Liquids
The appliance is not suitable for the sterilization of liquids!
Suitability for sterilization
Relevant information provided by manufacturers of instruments and textiles about sterilization should be
strictly observed.
4.3 Closing the door ____________________________________________________
The door is closed by lightly applying pressure in the direction of the chamber flange and at the same time
pressing down the sliding door catch.
The display shows the message:
4.4 Program selection ___________________________________________________
A program should be selected which is appropriate for the physical properties of the items being sterilized (and
in particular their heat resistance) and the type of packaging (if any part of the load is wrapped, then either the
"Universal Program" or the "Gentle Program" must be used).
By pressing the "Program selection" button it is possible to review the display of the following programs for
selection:
Program name/Display message Parameter/Application
Universal-progr. at 134°C, 2 bar, and a sterilization
time of 3.5 min
Sterilization of all types of wrapped items, in particular
instruments, or mixed loads (unwrapped/wrapped)
Quick-program at 134°C, 2bar and a sterilization time
of 3.5 min
Sterilization only of unwrapped instruments (no
textiles) for rapid re-use (drying can be interrupted
manually)
Gentle-program at 121°C, 1bar and a sterilization
time of 15min
Sterilization of all types of wrapped items, in particular
large amounts of textiles or thermolabile materials
(plastic, rubber), or mixed loads (wrapped/unwrapped)
Prion Program (a special Universal Program) at
134°C, 2 bar, and with sterilization time extended to 20
min, for sterilization of wrapped items, especially
instruments and/or mixed loads (i.e., packed and
unpacked). This program is recommended for
sterilization of instruments used in situations in which
the danger of infection by pathologically modified
proteins is suspected: for example, Creutzfeld-Jacob
and BSE).
Program
Universal-progr.
134°C wrapped
Program
Quick-program
134°C unwrapped
Program
Gentle-program
121°C wrapped
Program Start-Stop
Door
closed
Program
Prion-program
134°C wrapped 20‘

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 13
Program name/Display message Parameter/Application
MELAsteam Cleaning at 136°C, 2.3 bar, and a maxi-
mum cleaning time of 60 min., for the steam cleaning
of instruments that have already been disinfected.
CAUTION: Use only together with a permanently
installed MELAsteam®Pistol (otherwise the system
is disabled.
See the Operator’s Manual for MELAsteam®.
Bowie&Dick Test Program at 134°C, 2 bar and a
sterilization time of 3.5 min
Used to check the operation of the autoclave (Steam
penetration of special indicators)
Vacuumtest-program
Used to check the autoclave for leaks,
from a cold start
Basic display (no program selected)
4.5 Program start_______________________________________________________
Press the "Start-Stop" button once the desired program is shown on the display. The availability of cooling
water, and feed water will be checked automatically, with a conductivity measurement.
At the start of the quick program there will be an additional message "Warning: Only unwrapped instruments“,
at the start of the disinfection program the warning "Warning - Not sterilization“. These messages must be
acknowledged by pressing "Start“ again.
4.6 Program progress ___________________________________________________
After starting the program, it will then progress automatically. The display shows the current program status as
follows:
Program status Display message
1. Phase 1 consisting of evacuation
(removal of air) until the appropriate
evacuation pressure is reached, followed
by steam introduction up to slightly above
atmospheric pressure.
Display show pressure in chamber and
steam temperature
2. Phase 2 and following
Depending on the program chosen and
the temperature of the chamber at the
start of the temperature, additional cycles
may be necessary to ensure that air is
evacuated and superheated steam enters
the items being sterilized.
3. Heating phase
A heating-up phase follows. The
continuous introduction of steam raises
pressure and temperature in chamber to
the values needed for the program
Program
Bowie&Dick Test
134°C 2.2bar 3.5min‘
Program
Vacuumtest
Program Start-Stop
Start
Program Start-Stop
1. Fractionation
-0.085 bar 22°C
Program Start-Stop
2. Fractionation
-0.85 bar 70°C
Program Start-Stop
Heat up
0.76 bar 117°C
Program
15:31:33
0.02bar 22°C
Program
MELAsteam-cleaning
2,3bar 60‘

Page 14
Program status Display message
4. Sterilization phase
When the required pressure and
temperature have been reached the
sterilization proper then begins.
The display shows alternately the
pressure and temperature and the time
remaining.
5. Pressure release
After completion of the sterilization time,
the pressure is released and the steam
generator emptied.
Pressure and temperature fall.
6. Drying phase
After pressure release the drying phase
begins.
At this point it is possible to stop the
program without this leading to a fault
being reported, since the sterilization
itself is now completed. However, with the
exception of the "Quick Program", the
drying phase should be allowed to run to
completion.
7. Ventilation
After the drying, the chamber is
ventilated, with pressure equalisation.
8. Program end
After ventilation of the chamber the
program is completed.
If a printer is attached and print-out "yes"
is selected, the record will be printed-out
immediately.
After the door has automatically unlocked
the door can be opened to remove the
sterilized objects.
Program Start-Stop
Ventilation
-0.12 bar 60°C
Program Start-Stop
Open door
please
Program Start-Stop
Quick-program
Run successfully
Program Start-Stop
Sterilization
Still 2 min 12 sec
Program Start-Stop
Sterilization
2.18 bar 135°C
Program Start-Stop
Pressure release
0.85 bar 96°C
Program Start-Stop
Immediate removal
Press STOP
Program Start-Stop
Vacuum-drying
1' -0.9bar 99°C
Program Start-Stop
Please wait
Door unlocking

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 15
4.7 Print-out record _____________________________________________________
The print-out record contains the following information:
4.8 Removing the sterilized items _________________________________________
Be careful when removing the sterilized items! Touching the metal surfaces can lead to burns. Always use the
appropriate aids to lift the trays or wear suitable hand protection.
4.9 Sterile storage ______________________________________________________
After removing wrapped sterile items, the wrapping should be checked for any signs of damage. If it is
defective (e.g. split seals) then the sterilization of the items must be repeated after the items have been re-
wrapped.
It is important for sterile storage that the items have been properly dried. The Vacuklav®24-B/L provides very
good drying if the program has not been interrupted before its completion and the autoclave has been properly
loaded (see Section 4.2). Directly after sterilization there may still be residual condensation on the items or the
container. Because the items are hot on removal, this will usually evaporate quickly. The German industrial
standard DIN 58953 Part 7 Section 7 contains the following comment about residual moisture on paper
wrapping or transparent sterilization paper after sterilization: "...small amounts of water on the wrapping are
unproblematic, provided they have evaporated within 30 minutes after removal from the steam steriliser....."
------------------------------------------
MELAG Vacuklav 24-B
------------------------------------------
Program : Universal-program
134°C wrapped
Datum : 06.04.2000
Uhrzeit : 12:16:28 (Start)
Charge Nr.: 5
------------------------------------------
Preheating 133.5 °C
Conductivity 7 S/cm
Program step Pressure Temperat. Time
bar °C min
Start 0.03 70.1 00:00
1.sub-atm.pulsing
Evacuation -0.90 67.2 01:30
Steam entry 0.10 98.8 02:35
2.sub-atm.pulsing
Evacuation -0.80 66.9 03:19
Steam entry 0.10 100.9 04:21
3.sub-atm.pulsing
Evacuation -0.80 78.8 05:11
Steam entry 0.10 101.1 06:14
Heat up 2.05 134.2 08:03
Steriliz.begin 2.05 134.2 08:03
Steriliz.end 2.19 136.0 11:33
Pressure release 0.10 106.5 12:10
Vacuum-drying
Drying begin -0,25 100.4 12:17
Drying pressure -0,90 70,1 22:17
Drying end -0,35 60,5 27:17
Ventilation -0,18 57,1 27:21
End -0,05 57,1 27:25
------------------------------------------
PROGRAM PROPERLY EXECUTED!
Temperatur : 135.5 +0.2 /-0.2 °C
Druck : 2.19 +0.03/-0.03 bar
Sterilisierzeit: 3 min 30 sec
Uhrzeit : 12:43:53 (End)
==========================================
276 0000815 1.15
Program
Date
Time of start
Running load number for the day
Pre-heating temperature
Conductivity of purified feed water
Program phases with the values for steam
pressure and temperature, and time (relative
to program start)
Final report
Mean sterilization temperature/ deviations
Mean sterilization pressure / deviations
Duration of sterilization
Time at end of program
Info-line with total number of loads,
Works number and software version.

Page 16
After cooling, wrapped sterilized objects should be stored in a place where they are protected from dust (e.g.
instrument cupboard). Given proper storage, DIN 58953 Part 7 gives the following guidelines for the maximum
storage periods for sterilized objects: in basic wrapping (e.g. transparent sterilization foil) up to 6 weeks; in
double-wrapping up to 6 months.
4.10 Sterilization frequency / pauses________________________________________
After completing or terminating the drying phase, the autoclave can be reloaded and started immediately. No
pauses in operation are necessary.
4.11 Manual termination of program ________________________________________
4.11.1 Termination of sterilization/ disinfection ______________________________________________
A program can be terminated at any time by pressing the "Start-Stop" button. If the program has not yet
reached the drying phase then the items will be non-sterile (or for some programs non-disinfected)!
Warning! Steam may escape when the autoclave door is opened.
If the sterilization phase of the program had not been completed, then it is advisable to carry out an empty
sterilization run before reusing the autoclave.
Operation Display message
1. Press the "Start-Stop" button
To confirm, press the "Start-Stop" once
again within 5 seconds.
If no confirmation is given then the
program resumes normally.
2.
If confirmation is given then the program
stops.
The pressure inside the autoclave will
then be equalised, either by pressure
release, or by
ventilation (if vacuum inside).
3. After pressure equalisation, the display
will alternately show the messages
"Terminated" and an offer to quit the
program termination.
4. To undo the program termination, press
the " - " button.
- Otherwise,
After the message "Please wait, Door
unlocking", the display for the selected
program reappears.
Program Start-Stop
Stop program?
button 'Stop'
Program Start-Stop
Ventilate
1.52 bar 112°C
Program Start-Stop
Program
stopped
Program Start-Stop
Stop/ End
0.02 bar 88°C
Program Start-Stop
Acknowledge
with button ' - '
Program Start-Stop
Gentle-program
121°C wrapped

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 17
4.11.2 Terminate drying _________________________________________________________________
A program can also be terminated during the drying phase, Since in this case the sterilization (or disinfection)
has been completed, the items in this case can be treated as sterilized or disinfected respectively.
However, depending on the stage at which the drying program is interrupted, the load may not have dried
sufficiently, and wrapped items in particular may not be dry enough for sterile storage. We therefore
recommend that you do not interrupt the drying process for wrapped items in the "Universal Program" and
"Gentle Program".
With the "Quick Program" it may be desirable to interrupt the drying program so that items can be used again.
The unwrapped items will dry as they are cooling down.
Warning! If the drying process is interrupted than steam may be released when the door of the autoclave is
opened.
Operation Display message
1. The autoclave is in the drying phase. The
display shows the drying time
alternately with
the option to terminate the drying phase
2. Press the "Start-Stop" button
To confirm, press the "Start-Stop" once
again within 5 secs.
If no confirmation is given then the
program resumes normally.
3.
If the "Start-Stop" button has been
pressed again to confirm then the
program terminates.
4. This is followed by ventilation of the
autoclave chamber.
After the ventilation of the chamber the
display shows that the program has been
successfully completed:
alternately with:
If a printer is connected and an
immediate report has been selected, this
is printed-out, together with confirmation
that the drying process has been
terminated.
Program Start-Stop
Immediate remove
Press 'Stop'
Program Start-Stop
Vacuum-drying
sin. 3' –0.9bar 68°C
Program Start-Stop
Stop program ?
button 'Stop'
Program Start-Stop
Drying
stopped
Program Start-Stop
Open door
please
Program Start-Stop
Quick-program
run succesfully
Program Start-Stop
Ventilate
-0.52 bar 112°C
Program Start-Stop
Drying
stopped

Page 18
4.12 Reaction to warnings / error messages__________________________________
The Vacuklav®24-B/L has a number of safety features and an extensive integrated control and monitoring
system, in order to ensure the greatest possible level of safety for the sterilization process, and to eliminate
risks for the patients and operators.
Various aspects of the operation of the appliance, such as pressure and temperature sensors are
automatically checked when the autoclave is switched on.
The power supply, and the quantity and quality of the feed water and cooling water are checked before a
program can start.
A successful program start is followed in the next stages by the monitoring of all parameters of relevance for
the sterilization. If any limit values for the individual program phases are exceeded then there is a malfunction
report and the program is automatically interrupted.
In addition to messages, warnings or malfunction reports on the display, if a printer is connected then a print-
out will provide details of the type of malfunction and when it occurred.
If any such warning message occurs then you should consult Section 7, which provides detailed advice and
possible operational errors.
4.13 Operational pauses __________________________________________________
In general, the door should only be leant to during operational pauses in order to reduce wear on the door seal
and to avoid premature failure or sticking.
In the event of longer breaks, such as during vacations, the cooling water supply should be turned off (and the
feed water supply from the water purifier if one is connected). We recommend that you do not disconnect the
power supply. You should however set the automatic preheating option to "No" (see Section 6.5). In this way,
the vacuum pump will automatically turn over for a short period at midnight every day, which ensures that the
pump will run smoothly even after longer periods of inoperation. The display panel has to be in the starting
position. The door can also be open.
5 Closing down / Transport / Reinstallation
When closing down and transporting the autoclave you should proceed as follows:
Switch of the power.
Disconnect from the mains, allow the autoclave to cool down.
Turn off cooling water and feed water supplies.
Disconnect pipes at rear of autoclave.
If transporting the autoclave with trays and tray rack assemblies in place, then protect the inside
surface of the door by including a sheet of foam or similar material.
Warning! To avoid damage use the original packaging when transporting the autoclave.
If the appliance may be exposed to frost in transit then follow the relevant service instructions!
When setting the appliance up for reuse after transport or repairs then proceed in accordance with
Sections 2 and 3.

User Manual Vacuklav®24-B/L
Page 19
6 Special functions
6.1 Water quality (conductivity)/ Chamber temperature _______________________
By repeatedly pressing the "-" button then the preheating temperature of the chamber and the conductivity of
the purified feed water used for steam generation can be displayed alternately.
Operation Display message
1. Press down the "-" button to display the
conductivity of the feed water µS/cm
Release the "-" button to return to the
basic display (as shown here) or the
program status
Press the "-" button repeatedly and hold
down:
Display shows the pre-heating
temperature of the chamber.
6.2 Selecting extra drying________________________________________________
The standard drying times for the various programs provide adequate drying if the autoclave has been loaded
correctly (see Section 4.2). Nevertheless, with certain loads residual moisture may remain. By selecting the
"Extra drying" function, the drying time can be extended by 50%:
Operation Display message
At the start of the program, press the
"+" button. The display shows a
message confirming the extra drying,
and then the program runs as
described in Section 4.6, but with
50 % longer drying time.
6.3 Records / Load documentation ________________________________________
In order to document the progress of the sterilization / disinfection program, then the processor memory stores
records of the last 40 programs.
These records can be downloaded at a later stage via the serial interface (RS232).
When the memory is full (40 program runs) then before the start of the next run the oldest record will
automatically be overwritten. If an external printer is connected (and operable) and the option "Immed. print-
out? No" has been selected, then confirmation will be requested before the oldest record is overwritten (see
Section 7.3).
Hardware details and the nature of the print-out documentation is provided in the following sub-sections.
6.3.1 Record print-out_________________________________________________________________
6.3.1.1 External printer
6.3.1.1.1 Connecting the external Melaprint®42 printer
In order to connect a printer to the autoclave then a printer cable should be connected between the 9-pole
socket on the front of the autoclave (see page: 4, Fig. 1, Pos. 8) s and the 25-pole on the back of the printer
(ensuring a good connection and tightening the locking screws).
The power supply to the printer is provided by the power unit supplied with the printer, which connects to the
socket on the rear of the printer.
The printer is ready for operation when the voltage lamp "P" shines and the status display (On line/Off line)
"SEL". The operating manual of the printer includes further details, including the assembly of an external paper
feed, inserting paper, and the general operation of the printer.
Temp_preht_chamb
120°C
14:27:12
0.02bar 25°C
Conductivity
15 S/cm
Program Start-Stop
Supplent drying
selected

Page 20
6.3.1.1.2 Initialising the printer
After connecting the printer to the autoclave it must be registered with the autoclave processing unit
(initialised). Proceed as follows:
Operation Display message
1. Switch on autoclave
Display shows time,
pressure and
temperature
2. Hold down "+" button
and also press "-"
button.
Select "Function"
menu, sub-menu "Print"
3. Press "Program"
button,
Select "Print" menu
sub-menu "File
transmission"
4. Press "Program"
button,
Select "File
transmission"
Display shows current
status e.g. "No printer"
5. Press "+" (or "-") button
until display shows
"External printer"
6. Press "Program"
button,
Confirm the setting,
return to "Print" menu
7. Press "Start-Stop"
button,
return to the "Function"
menu
8. Press "Start-Stop"
button,
Quit the "Function"
menu and return to the
initial display
Program Start-Stop
14:27:12
0.02bar 25°C
Program Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program Start-Stop
File transmission
No printer
Program Start-Stop
File transmission
External printer
Program Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program Start-Stop
14:27:30
0.02bar 25°C