Frequently asked questions autoclaves
Everything you need to know about Class B autoclaves – FAQ
As the autoclave specialist, B-Autoclave supplies only high-quality Class B autoclaves that comply with all European medical guidelines. This page contains the most frequently asked questions about autoclaves, their operation, maintenance, and the required tests.
Is your question not listed? Feel free to contact our specialists – we are happy to help you.
General questions
What is an autoclave?
An autoclave, also known as a steam sterilizer, is a device that uses pressurized steam to sterilize instruments. This process eliminates bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores – ensuring instruments are completely safe for reuse in medical and dental settings.
What is a Class B autoclave?
A Class B autoclave is the highest standard sterilizer defined by the European standard EN 13060. It uses advanced pre- and post-vacuum technology, making it suitable for hollow instruments such as dental handpieces, porous loads like textiles and packaging, wrapped instruments, and solid instruments.
👉 Discover our full range of Class B autoclaves here.
What are the differences between Class N, S, and B autoclaves?
| Feature | Class N | Class S | Class B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid instruments | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wrapped instruments | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Hollow instruments | ✘ | Limited | ✔ |
| Porous loads | ✘ | Limited | ✔ |
| Compliance with EN 13060 | ✘ | Partial | ✔ Full compliance |
This comparison shows why only Class B autoclaves are suitable for medical, dental, and other professional practices.
Why do dental and medical practices choose Class B autoclaves?
Because Class B autoclaves guarantee safe sterilization for all types of instruments. They are the only devices that fully comply with strict healthcare regulations. Professions that rely on Class B autoclaves include dentists and orthodontists, general practitioners, podiatrists and chiropodists, veterinary practices, tattoo and piercing studios, and beauty salons.
Operation & Testing
How does a Class B autoclave work?
Class B autoclaves sterilize using steam under pressure. The cycle includes a pre-vacuum phase where air is removed from the chamber with a vacuum pump, steam injection that penetrates deep into all loads, the sterilization phase at 121–134 °C under pressure, and a drying phase that removes moisture to keep instruments sterile until use.
Which routine tests are required for Class B autoclaves?
To ensure your autoclave works correctly, regular testing is mandatory.
Helix test – simulates hollow instruments and checks steam penetration.
Bowie & Dick test – ensures proper steam penetration in porous loads.
Vacuum test – checks the autoclave chamber for leaks.
👉 All required autoclave test packs are available here.
How often should I test my autoclave?
Daily: Helix or Bowie & Dick test
Weekly: Vacuum test
Each cycle: Automatic printout of sterilization data
Regular testing is essential for validation and compliance with EN 13060.
Maintenance & Warranty
How do I maintain a Class B autoclave?
To ensure long lifespan and compliance, regular maintenance is required. With a B-Autoclave service contract, a certified technician checks your autoclave once per year or every 2 years, replaces critical parts, carries out all mandatory tests, and provides a maintenance & inspection certificate.
What is the lifespan of a Class B autoclave?
With proper use and regular maintenance, a Class B autoclave typically lasts 8–10 years or more.
Practical questions
Which water should I use in my autoclave?
Always use distilled or demineralised water. This prevents limescale, protects the heating element, and guarantees reliable sterilization.
👉 Order a water distiller here.
How long does a sterilisation cycle take?
Cycle times vary depending on the load and model, but generally small loads take about 20 minutes and wrapped or hollow instruments take 30–45 minutes. Class B autoclaves combine fast cycle times with maximum safety.
Can I connect a Class B autoclave myself?
Yes – all you need is a standard 230V socket. Our autoclaves come with a clear manual and instruction videos. In the Netherlands, installation is always carried out by our own technicians, including personal training.
Buying & Delivery
How do I order a Class B autoclave?
Place your order in our webshop, receive an order confirmation by e-mail, and schedule delivery and installation with our team. Delivery is free in NL, DE, AT, and CH.
👉 Order your Class B autoclave today.
Do you offer warranty?
Yes – every Class B autoclave from B-Autoclave comes with 2 years factory warranty. Free repairs are included during warranty in combination with a maintenance contract. After this period, our service team is available at competitive rates.
Contact us
Still have questions? Our specialists are happy to help.
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0031 321 317 878
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