Do you have a question about the Steris AMSCO 1215 and is the answer not in the manual?
The AMSCO® 1215 Cart and Utensil Washer/Disinfector is a high-capacity mechanical washer designed for the efficient cleaning and intermediate-level disinfection of various reusable items in patient care, including case carts, containers, utensils, and theater shoes.
The equipment is designed for indoor use only, at altitudes up to 2000 m (6560 ft), and operates within a temperature range of 5 to 40°C (41 to 104°F). Maximum relative humidity is 80% for temperatures up to 31°C (88°F), decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity at 40°C (104°F). It is rated for Pollution Degree 2, meaning it can be installed in environments where normally only non-conductive pollution occurs, but occasional, temporary conductivity caused by condensation can be expected. The equivalent sound pressure is 65.0 dB (A).
The washer/disinfector features a robust control system with three operating modes: Operator, Supervisor, and Service. The Operator mode allows users to run cycles, while the Supervisor and Service modes are password-protected for advanced settings and maintenance. The control system monitors and controls operations, displaying current chamber temperature and remaining cycle time. An automatic Standby state reduces energy consumption when the unit is idle for three consecutive hours, draining optional reservoirs. An automatic reservoir flushing sequence refreshes standing water in reservoirs if unused for a certain period. The unit is equipped with two touch screens, one on the load side and one on the unload side, displaying identical information.
The wash chamber is insulated to minimize heat loss and noise. It features a sanitary design for complete drainability and easy cleaning, with two LED lights illuminating the interior. The chamber floor consists of a removable stainless-steel panel with gratings for quiet loading and unloading. Double-walled insulated doors, made of tempered glass, open outward and remain cool to the touch during operation. Sensors prevent operation if doors are not fully closed and sealed.
The rotary spray arm system includes two assemblies, one on each side of the chamber, with specially oriented jets for optimal coverage and cycle time. A guide rail on the chamber floor assists in loading racks and carts and prevents movement during the CART cycle's automatic floor-tilt. The mechanical core houses piping, ductwork, electrical wiring, and a water heat exchanger. Optional Acu-Rinse and Acu-Wash reservoirs pre-heat and recover water for the Thermal Rinse and Wash phases, respectively, in CART cycles, promoting water recycling.
The chemical injection system includes three standard pumps, with an option for a fourth, allowing for varied chemical use depending on the load type. These pumps are optimized for Prolystica® Ultra Concentrate chemicals, which require ten times less product than traditional STERIS chemicals. Chemical dispensing devices are mounted on the outer wall of the chamber. The unit also features a vapor exhaust pre-filter and a HEPA filter, ensuring fresh, HEPA-filtered air is blown into the chamber and dry air is evacuated. Optional floor ramps are available for easy loading and unloading when the unit is not installed in a pit.
Emergency Stop pushbuttons are located on both load and unload sides, instantly stopping operation and de-energizing doors in an emergency. An Emergency Door Opening pushbutton inside the chamber allows for immediate door unlocking and function stoppage. A chamber door interlock safety mechanism prevents simultaneous opening of both doors, preventing cross-contamination. Proximity sensors ensure doors are fully closed and locked before a cycle can start. Lock/Unlock key selectors are provided for securing the washer/disinfector during maintenance.
Routine maintenance procedures are detailed in the manual, including daily cleaning of the debris screen, weekly inspection and cleaning of rotary spray arm assemblies, and monthly cleaning of door gaskets. The debris screen is removable for easy cleaning. The manual also provides instructions for replacing chemical containers and printer paper rolls. A sump safety level test is required every 970 cycles to verify water levels. Verification of emergency door opening and emergency stop pushbuttons is also part of routine maintenance. The system provides reminders for decontamination cycles and sump filter cleaning.
The AMSCO® 1215 is programmed with factory-preset cycles (CART, CONTAINER, UTENSIL) and offers custom programming options. It is optimized for Prolystica® Ultra Concentrate chemicals, which are low-foaming, easy-to-rinse, and effective on various soils. Other STERIS chemicals, such as Prolystica® Restore® Descaler and Neutralizing Detergent and Liquid Descaler Acid-Based Scale Remover, are also compatible. A drying agent, Dri ‘N Shine® Concentrated Drying Agent, is recommended for the Thermal Rinse phase to produce spot-free surfaces. Water recycling can be configured for up to 20 reuses, with an option for fresh water use.
The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section for various alarms and malfunctions, such as "Both Doors Open," "Water Pressure Too Low," "Chemical Container Empty," and "Sump T° Too High." It provides general troubleshooting steps and additional information, including when to contact STERIS for service.
| Brand | Steris |
|---|---|
| Model | AMSCO 1215 |
| Category | Laboratory Equipment |
| Language | English |











