INTEGRAL FLASH STEAM GENERATOR

摘要

The present invention is a flash steam generator to be used as an integral component of a steam sterilizer. The generator comprises a metal block (11) having a first bore (12) drilled lengthwise through the metal block. Surrounding the first bore is a plurality of additional heater bores (14) in which heating elements (15) are inserted. The generator is integral to the sterilizer piping and control systems. Water is supplied to the first bore (12) by the sterilizer piping system, and electricity is supplied to the heating elements by the sterilizer power supply. The heating elements (15) convert the electricity to heat, which transfers via the metal block (11) to the first bore (12) where the heat rapidly boils the water contained therein in what is essentially a flash vaporization process. An overtemperature device protects the system should the heaters be energized without sufficient water in the block. A safety valve exists between the block and the sterilizer chamber to protect the block and the chamber from overpressure conditions. The block and piping are properly insulated to prevent heat loss to the atmosphere and injury to persons operating the sterilizer.