Abstract: A process and apparatus for improving a steam sterilization cycle by shortening the time of the drying stage of the cycle. Sterilized articles in a sterilization chamber surrounded by a steam jacket chamber, are enveloped in water vapor which is quickly cooled and condensed by draining steam from the jacket. In addition, a heat exchanger comprising pipe coils mounted within the sterilization chamber completely below the articles to be sterilized with a cold coolant circulated therethrough may be used to further cool and condense the water vapor in the sterilization chamber, from which water and water vapor are quickly drawn off by an applied vacuum. The process involves the simultaneous steps of: withdrawing steam from the steam jacket to cool the walls of the sterilizing chamber; removing water and water vapor by vacuum from the sterilizing chamber; and circulating cold coolant in the heat exchanger.

Abstract: A closed sterilizer chamber in which a medium may be contained to be sterilized at a predetermined temperature below 212.degree. F., and has a vacuum system for continuously drawing a vacuum. When a particular vacuum is achieved, a steam source injects steam into the chamber under the control of a pressure sensor, and a temperature sensor. After a predetermined temperature and pressure are reached, the injection of steam in the chamber is controlled by a second temperature sensor.

Abstract: Sealing means for maintaining a seal between a closed door of a sterilizer and a wall framing an opening into a sterilizer chamber, comprising an endless ring having elastic walls with an internal partition dividing the ring into two independently inflatable, expansible channels. A tube secured to a wall of the ring opens into each of the channels respectively, for independently inflating the channels. Elastic studs with enlarged heads are secured to one side of the ring for detachably engaging in holes in the open wall of the chamber. A pneumatic circuit including a source of compressed air may be connected to the two tubes and provided with a two-way valve for inflating either one of the two channels.

Abstract: Apparatus and a process for quietly injecting live, high pressure steam into water in a sterilizer chamber, wherein a minute quantity of air at higher pressure than the steam is quietly mixed with the steam prior to passing the stream of air mixed with steam into water in the chamber. The water can be drawn from the chamber by a recirculating pipe into a venturi ejector into which the stream of air mixed with steam is passed. The water quietly mixes with the stream of air and steam and the combined stream of air, steam and water is quietly recirculated back into the chamber.