Bowie Dick Tests for Autoclaves

Sep 5 / Chris Maughan
Bowie Dick Tests are used in porous load autoclaves as a daily test. Often referred to as 'Daily Air Removal Tests' or 'BD Test'.

Currently the most common type of  Bowie Dick test uses Chemical Indicator sheet placed in a stack of paper. The objective of the test is for the air in the pack to be removed and replaced with steam. 

The chemical indicator sheets is often referred to as 'TST' as it requires Temperature, Steam and Time in order to pass.

What is a Bowie Dick Test failure?

For the traditional paper bowie dick test packs, a passed test should show a uniform colour change in line with manufactures instructions.

A Failed test wont show a uniform colour change. They demonstrate air is present within the chamber and should be investigated fully.
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Electronic Bowie Dick Tests

Electronic Bowie Dick tests use temperature and pressure data to evaluate the air removal process. The benefits of this style of test are:
  • Remove the need for paper in the facility
  • Shows a clear Pass/Fail result 
  • Data can be trended to evaluate the process
  • Can be performed on existing production cycles
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What should you do if your Bowie Dick Test Fails?

Bowe Dick Tests are designed to fail if the air is present in the autoclave. The air might be as a result of poor air removal, Non Condensable Gases from the steam supply or a leak into the chamber.

If you see a failure, please feel free to contact us for support at info@thermalcompliance.co.uk

Advanced Autoclave Validation

Routine Testing Failure?

In our 3 Day  'Advanced Autoclave Validation' training course, we look at routine testing failures and show you how to investigate and resolve them.
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