If it has a special program you'll probably be able to use liquids. Let me check my config and I tell you
EDIT: In the one we have, we can set the initial vacuum before the injection of the steam in the chamber. It's set at 400. We only use one peak
Lower as much as possible the drying time. This is the most important difference, the longer, more volume you will lose and the higher will be the alteration of the medium composition.
Another thing is that you usually only should fill the bottles with about 75-80% of their nominal volume. e.g. for a 1 L Schott bottle, 750-800 mL medium
The time will be dependant on the volume of liquid. This is part of our SWP based on manufacturers indication. It seems that the pre-vacuum makes the content to remain relatively cool compared to the chamber walls, that's why you have to carefully consider the penetration time (time it takes the innermost part of the liquid to reach the sterilising temp)
This cycle has been set up specifically for liquids. The maximum drying time for liquids is 5 mins (less if possible). And the maximum sterilisation temperature for liquids is 121°C.
However, you will need to vary the penetration time and temperature depending on the volume used. The penetration times suggested by manufacturer:
- Volume Used / Penetration Time / Penetration Temp / Sterilisation Time / Sterilisation Temp
- Test tubes / 2mins / 121°C / 15 mins / 121°C
- 250mL bottles / 9mins / 123°C / 15 mins / 121°C
- 1L bottles / 25mins / 125°C / 15 mins / 121°C
Therefore, total holding time will be 17, 24 and 40 mins for test tubes, 250 mL and 1L bottles, respectively.
Please note – these numbers are a guide only. You will need to test liquid temperature using a thermocouple to guarantee sterilisation temperatures have been reached. See trainers for more assistance with this.
Edited by El Crazy Xabi, 18 June 2015 - 11:21 PM.