The relation between the load, duration and steam penetration capacity of a surface steam sterilization process; a case study.

BACKGROUND: In practice it is claimed that the characteristics of a load influence a surface steam sterilization process. [Rev#2 Com#1] 'Limited and mainly qualitative' information on this topic has been found in the literature.

AIM: To find if a load influences the duration and the related characteristics of a surface steam sterilization process.

METHOD: In a case study 30 days of every load monitoring with an objective, quantifying steam penetration test has been performed. This resulted in 98 production processes with load monitoring. The acquired data was analyzed.

FINDINGS: A relation is found between the weight of a load and the duration of a surface steam sterilization process.

CONCLUSIONS: It is demonstrated in this case study that the heavier a sterilizer load the longer the process will take. Additionally, it is concluded that when the duration of a process is longer, diffusion will have more effect and steam penetration increases.