How Does Load Orientation Impact Condensate Generation in Autoclaves?

Jun 3

Steam condenses as part of the sterilisation process, and managing that condensate is critical to preventing wet loads in porous load autoclaves.

One often-overlooked factor is load orientation. The way items are placed can either help drain condensate or allow it to collect. For example, placing a bucket upright turns it into a condensate trap — difficult to drain effectively. Simply inverting the bucket eliminates the issue without the need for complex vacuum drying pulses.


When designing autoclave loads, we should consider:

  • Does condensate generation on upper shelves affect items below?


  • Can load orientation reduce condensate pooling or redirect flow away from other items?

A good rule of thumb is to place large, condensing items on the bottom shelf and allow any condensate to drain away from other load components.
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3 Steps to minimise condensate

With modern sterilisation packaging, condensate control has become even more important — but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Cycle design should also aim to minimise condensate formation and remove any that does form.

Wet loads aren’t an acceptable part of the process — and they can usually be prevented with three simple steps:

  1. Optimise load orientation
  2. Use effective wrapping techniques
  3. Design and optimise the cycle to minimise and remove condensate

How we can help

Preventing wet loads should be looked at in a holistic way by reducing condensate generation, managing condensate and removing any residual condensate.

We can help achieve this on your autoclave via cycle design, wrapping optimisation and load optimisation. If your looking for help with wet loads, we can assist with:

  1. Consultancy Support - We can audit your cycle, optimise load orientation, load wrapping, air removal phase and drying phase.
  2. Autoclave Validation - Preventing wet loads requires the knowledge of skilled specialists. We can perform the cycle development and Performance qualification ensuring compliance from day one.
  3. Autoclave Training - Our Advanced Autoclave Validation course covers everything you need to know to optimise

Autoclave Validation

Our Engineers can help develop and optimise your cycles and loads. Ensuring rapid and even steam penetration, load dryness and robust sterilisation.
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Consultancy Support

With over 20 years experience in validating Autoclaves, Chris Maughan can help audit your process and assist in optimising your cycles for robust and repeatable design.