Q. I have an old Astell unit and I would like to replace it with the current version. How do I know what my model is?

A. Please contact us with the serial number (found on the rating plate on the exterior of the unit) and we will contact you with the correct product details.

Q. I don't fully understand the difference between the steam sources mentioned in your product information.

A. Direct Steam - The unit has no means of creating it's own steam and will rely upon the on site supply from a central source. Heaters in the chamber - these are heating coils in the bottom of the chamber which heat up water to create steam. Steam Generator - a separate vessel located within the main unit housing, or if larger as a separate unit, and creates steam which is then injected into the chamber when required.

Q. What is the purpose of a vacuum system?

A. A non vacuum system relies upon the turbulence of the steam to remove any air from the load and circulate the steam to every area of the load. With a simple load, this is sufficient, and as the steam can gets everywhere, sterilization occurs. If the load has a difficult air pockets, i.e., mixed discard, fabrics etc, then a vacuum system would be essential to pull the air out of the chamber prior to injecting the steam in. Without the vacuum system, sterilization could not be guaranteed.

Q. How do I ensure that my load is dry at the end of a cycle?

A. A vacuum unit must be selected, along with the heated jacket option. The jacket is essential in that it prevents any condensate forming and wetting the load.