Replacing Parts On Dental Sterilizers

Sterilizers have been known to play a significant role in the daily functioning of dental operatories and are recently becoming even more advanced and efficient due to advances in technology. Sterilizers such as The Midmark M11 UltraClave® Automatic Sterilizer now provide an intuitive display and simple prompts that help you easily select the cycle you need...whether it is for unwrapped items, pouches, packs or handpieces. Once the sterilization process is complete, the door conveniently opens automatically and quietly to dissipate the steam and provide fast and efficient drying of your instruments.

The latest innovations allow for fast and easy use for efficient instrument processing, reliability and effectiveness for infection control assurance, automatic opening door for efficient instrument drying, and maximum space utilization and a complimentary design for your sterilization area.  Although these sterilizers can be a somewhat costly addition to a dental operatory, the time and money that they save dentists down the road is substantial. Taking a few pointers into consideration and performing routine checks and replacing old parts on your unit can help maximize the life and functioning of your model.

Below are a few part replacement tips that can help you make the most of and get the best results from your sterilizer:

  • Door Gasket: To replace the door gasket, begin by simply removing the old door gasket. Clean the gasket groove in the door, and chamber face. For easy installation of the new gasket, use the “South-East-West-North” method (i.e. begin installing the gasket at the bottom of the door, then install the left and right sides and finishing at the top by squeezing in any of the excess making sure that the gasket fits flush).
  • Dam Gasket: Use CAUTION when removing or installing the dam gasket –the door studs can be sharp. To install the door dam, align and place the dam gasket on and over the door studs. The dam must lie flat against the door (refer to the Installation Instructions included with the MIG035 dam gasket).
  • Filters: Depending on the age of the machine, you will need to replace either the sintered bronze style Chamber Filter or both the mesh style Chamber Filter and Vent Filter. See below for instructions.
Chamber Filter (sintered bronze style filter): If the machine has only a Chamber Filter – Remove all trays and the rack from the chamber. Clean chamber then remove the old chamber filter. Install a new filter. Reinstall rack and trays.

Chamber & Vent Filters (mesh style filter): If the machine has both a Chamber and a Vent Filter – Remove all trays and the rack from the chamber. Clean the chamber, then remove the chamber filter. Install the new filter. You must also replace the Vent Filter that serves as a filter for the steam trap/bellows and is located in the vent line to the tee fitting. Reinstall rack and trays.

  • Door Spring: Remove the old spring. Reuse the screw to install the two new door springs – one on top of the other. This will aid in the door opening.
  • Sterilizer: After replacing the PM parts, check the reservoir and clean if dirt or debris are present (Note: Debris is the number one reason for Steam Trap/Bellows failure). Refill reservoir with distilled water only. Conduct a temperature check using a Max Register Thermometer. Conduct a pressure check to identify any leaks that may need to be addressed. If calibration is necessary, use the RPI Pressure Gauge and the RPI Trim Pot Tool.
At DuraPro Health, we offer the highest quality dental sterilizers at affordable prices. Our available models include the Midmark M11 UltraClave® Automatic Sterilizer, the Midmark M9 model, and numerous others. For more information on sterilizer units or sterilizer parts, please visit our website today.
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