STERILIZER TEST METHOD AND APPARATUS

摘要

The operation of a steam sterilizer (200) is monitored by a test unit (100) and a controller which together comprise a system which can be operated in two principal method schemes: (1) the testing for completeness of air removal from a sterilizer chamber (202), and (2) the testing for effective sterilization conditions. These methods each have two principal modes of operation: (a) the performance of a Bowie and Dick type test, as is usually done on a once-a-day basis; and (b) monitoring the sterilizer (200) during load conditions. In a preferred embodiment a test unit (100) including temperature (122) and pressure sensors (124), a moisture sensor (126) and a heat sink (112) are positioned within the chamber (100) of a steam sterilizer (200) and transmit by radio (120) the conditions therein to an external controller (150). The test unit (100) can employ a replaceable cartridge (110) to assure effective operation even after a large number of cycles of operation.