3M 50AN - Section 1: Operating Instructions; System Description; Indicator Panel Explanation

EO Abator Operation and Installation Manual
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Section 1: Operating Instructions
System Description:
The 3M EO Abator is intended to remove ethylene oxide (EO) from the exhaust of 3M Steri-Vac Sterilizers and Aerators.
The EO Abator converts EO into carbon dioxide and water vapor through a heated catalytic process.
The 3M EO Abator was designed for use with 3M Steri-Vac Sterilizers and Aerators. The Abator includes all controls
and indicators necessary to maintain safe operating conditions within the processing limits of the machine. This system
provides an internal operating condition where the EO concentration is well below the lower ammability limit of
30,000 ppm EO in air.
The process by which the Abator system works is one in which ambient air is pulled by the blower into the Abator system
through the air inlet and pre-lter. The air then passes through the electric heater where it is heated to approximately
138ºC (280ºF). The heated air then passes through the catalytic cell inlet where EO is fed into the air stream through
a solenoid valve and injection manifold. As the EO enters the heated air stream, it is diluted with air before it enters
the catalytic cell where the EO is catalyzed. The heat given o by this catalytic process raises the temperature of the
catalytic cell and the euent air stream in proportion to the amount of EO introduced into the Abator system. When
properly installed with 3M Steri-Vac Sterilizers and/or Aerators, the temperature should not exceed 260ºC (500ºF). If
this value is exceeded, damage to the catalytic cell and other internal components will result.
The EO Abator achieves at least 99.9% eciency (time weighted average) in removing EO during sterilization portion of
cycle (when EO>100ppm) at normal operating temperatures and concentrations.
The EO Abator achieves at least 99.0% eciency (time weighted average) in removing EO during aeration portion of
cycle (when EO<100ppm) at normal operating temperatures and concentrations.
The EO Abator should be tested for eciency on a regular basis as required by local, state or federal regulations.
Explanation of Indicator Panel:
Indicator Normal Status Malfunction
Abator On (Green) ON/OFF Indicates Abator is on. If OFF, check main disconnect to Abator.
Ready (Green) ON OFF indicates one of the following problems:
1. Low process temp
2. High process temp
3. Low air ow
4. Open RTD
Working (Green) ON/OFF ON indicates Abator is processing EO. OFF indicates no or low
concentrations of EO.
Low Air Flow (Red) OFF ON indicates one of the following problems:
1. Plugged pre-lter (Must replace every 6 months or sooner)
2. Blocked Outow
3. Blower Malfunction
Over Temperature (Red) OFF ON indicates system malfunction. After completion of cycle, shut
down. Call for service. DO NOT RESTART.
Over Temperature (Red)
Slow Flash
(1 ash/second)
OFF ON indicates high heater sheath temperature or open RTD.
Over Temperature (Red)
Fast Flash
(3 ash/second)
OFF ON indicates the temperature rate of rise too fast due to low airow