The MKII Controller Operator's Guide describes the Consolidated SSR and SR series of sterilizers, which are fully automatic, solid-state digital automatic controlled sterilizers designed for use by facilities to sterilize heat and moisture-stable materials using pressurized steam. These sterilizers are available in various chamber sizes and can be connected to a direct building steam supply (50-80 PSI) or equipped with an integral, electrically heated steam generator. The Mark II control system is identical for both types.
Function Description:
The Mark II control system continuously monitors and visually displays relevant temperature and pressures within the sterilizer. It automatically initiates and controls each phase of the sterilization cycle: condition, sterilize, and exhaust, ensuring greater assurance of sterilization. The controller allows users to select different sterilizer cycles (Fast, Fluid, Dry, and Low-Temp), set sterilization temperature, and define sterilization and dry times. It also prints a chart of sterilizer temperature versus time.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Steam Supply: 50-80 PSI (for direct building steam supply).
- Sterilization Temperature Range (Low-Temp Cycle): 172°F to 212°F.
- Jacket Pressure (Factory Preset): Approximately 20 PSI for 250°F sterilization, adjustable to 32 PSI for 270°F sterilization.
- Vacuum (Post-Vac System): Draws down to a 28" vacuum during exhaust phase.
Usage Features:
- Cycle Selector Switch: Located on the front of the sterilizer, it allows selection of three main cycle types:
- ON/OFF: Acts as the power button and initiates the selected cycle.
- FAST Cycle: For sterilizing instruments or items that do not require a drying phase or are not liquids. Steam pressure is rapidly reduced to atmosphere at the end of the cycle.
- FLUID Cycle: For sterilizing liquids or media. Steam pressure is reduced very slowly to minimize boil-over.
- DRY Cycle: For sterilizing packs, instruments, or other items requiring a drying phase. Steam pressure is rapidly reduced, followed by a user-defined dry time.
- MKII Controller Face Plate:
- Sterilize Time Setting Thumbwheels: Used to set the desired sterilization time in minutes.
- Dry Time Setting Thumbwheels: Used to set the desired dry time in minutes (only effective for DRY cycles).
- Remaining Time Display: Shows the remaining time for the current phase.
- Sterilize Phase Indicator (LED): Illuminates during the sterilization phase.
- Exhaust Phase Indicator (LED): Illuminates during the exhaust phase.
- LO-TEMP Indicator Light: Illuminates during a Low-Temp cycle.
- REGULAR vs. LO-TEMP Selector Switch: Toggles between regular and low-temperature sterilization modes.
- Chamber Pressure Gauge: Displays the current steam pressure inside the chamber. Users must ensure it reads zero before opening the door.
- Jacket Reset Button and Light: The green Jacket Light indicates low jacket pressure, requiring the user to press the Jacket Reset Button and wait for pressure to build before starting a new cycle.
- Chart Recorder/Controller:
- Orange Setting Pointer: Used to set the sterilization temperature.
- Green Indicating Pointer: Shows the current temperature.
- Stylus: Records the temperature on the chart paper over time.
- Chart Knob: Used to secure the chart paper.
- Chart Paper Index: Helps align the chart paper.
- Generator Switch (for generator-equipped sterilizers): Turns the integral steam generator ON/OFF.
- J54-25 Optional High Pressure Limit Switch: Located on top of the sterilizer chamber, it has a reset button to re-energize the generator contactor if it trips.
- Double Door Sterilizers: Equipped with an Alarm Warning System (siren and flashing light) for cross-contamination danger. Both doors must be closed and locked for a cycle to begin. "Remote Start" button available on the non-control end.
- Post-Vac System (optional): Draws a 28" vacuum during the exhaust phase of Fast and Dry cycles. For Fast cycles, vacuum is held until the "On-Off" switch is pressed or the door is opened. For Dry cycles, vacuum is held for the set Dry Timer duration, then released by pressing "On-Off" switch.
Safety Instructions:
- BURN HAZARD: Operators MUST wear protective clothing (face shield, thermal gloves, lab attire) when loading/unloading. Stand away when opening the door due to steam release. DO NOT open the door if water leaks from the front.
- RISK OF NON-STERILE DEVICE: If a cycle is aborted before successful termination, the load must be reprocessed.
- INJURY HAZARD (Fluids): Selecting the wrong cycle for liquids can cause containers to burst or crack. Do not agitate fluids after a FLUIDS cycle to prevent bursting/cracking. Sterilized liquids are not for direct patient contact.
- CHLORIDE WARNING: NEVER use CHLORIDE-based cleaners or sterilize items containing CHLORIDES or producing CHLORIDE GASES in stainless steel chambers, as this can cause cracks and pinholes leading to steam leaks.
Maintenance Features:
- Circuit Breaker: Protects electronics. If tripped, a qualified technician must troubleshoot before resetting.
- Drain Strainer: Must be cleaned before every cycle, every day, for smooth operation.
- Chart Recorder Paper: Should never operate without chart paper to prevent damage to the stylus' sapphire tip. Instructions are provided for changing the paper.
- Automatic Generator Blow-down (optional): Flushes water from the generator upon shutdown.
- Automatic Jacket Blow-down (optional): During a Fluid cycle, the jacket and chamber cool simultaneously, and the jacket exhaust relay is energized. The Jacket Reset Button must be pressed to re-pressurize the jacket for the next cycle.
Load Preparation:
- Follow AAMI Standard ST46 guidelines.
- Wear protective clothing in the decontamination area.
- Position packages for free steam circulation, air elimination, and to prevent water entrapment.
- Orient items holding water (basins, trays) to drain condensate. Use wicking material.
- Place large/heavy metal items on the lowest shelf.
- Ensure no low spots in non-woven wrap.
- Sterilize instruments (e.g., forceps) in the open position.
Need help?
General
To Next Page