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Steritool Product Warranty and Care Instructions
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Steritool stainless steel hand tools are manufactured using a variety of
select corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloys. However, a certain amount of care is
required to maintain the tools' original corrosion-resistant characteristics
over the course of their use.
Cleaning:
All tools are shipped in a non-sterile condition and
must be cleaned and sterilized before use. Distilled water is recommended for
rinsing, as tap water can contain minerals that may stain or discolor the steel.
If tap water is used, then the tool should be dried immediately to avoid
staining. Do not use abrasive cleaners, which can scratch the surface and remove
the passive layer. Avoid high concentrations of bleach to clean stainless
steels, as pitting of the surface can occur. Arrange tools by metal type when
cleaning so that galvanic corrosion does not occur as a result of contact
between dissimilar metals. Additionally, to avoid ferrous contamination of
the surface (the transfer of ferrous particles) do not store stainless steel
tools with carbon steel tools.
Sterilization:
Steritool stainless steel hand tools can be steam sterilized/autoclaved to
the following standards, through thousands of cycles:
ANSI/AANI ST79.2006
DIN 285:2009
DIN 58950 Pharma
HTM / HTM 2030 UK Sterilization Standards
AANI/ISO 11345-R-8/93 Industry Standard for Moist Heat Sterilization
FDA Reg. 21 CFR, Part 11 cGMP requirements.
For other methods of sterilization it is prudent and necessary to carry out a
test using one hand tool item to evaluate the effect on the tool and the
sterilization equipment. Be especially careful with tools that have Zytel
handles and tools that utilize Type 420/430/440 Stainless Steel.
Examples of types of sterilization include the following:
Ethylene oxide
Ozone
Bleach
Glutaraldehyde and formaldehyde
Phthalaldehyde
Hydrogen Peroxide
Dry sterilization process
Peracetic acid
H2O/Alcohol Mix.
Follow industry standards for times and temperatures. Hand tools are
sterilized using guidelines that are used for medical and dental instruments.
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Passivation of stainless steel is a process
routinely used during the manufacture of our hand tools that produces a passive
(i.e., non-reactive) oxide layer on the surface of the material, which protects
the steel against corrosion. In addition to proper cleaning and care, additional
passivation cycles may be performed to remove stains and to extend the life of
the tool. But no amount of attention after the fact can substitute for careful,
preventative maintenance. Users should read and follow this maintenance guide in
order to obtain the maximum use and benefit from our tools.
Autoclaving
Follow the equipment manufacturer's recommendations. Remove any dirt, grease, or chemicals from the surface before autoclaving to
eliminate staining or spotting. Follow recommended drying times and procedures to prevent water spotting.
Lubrication
Movable parts should be lubricated after cleaning or passivation. Spray with STERITOOL
instrument oil (#10000) and let drain (do not wipe) before autoclaving.
General Notes
Use of any tool for purposes other than intended may result in damage and void the warranty. Use appropriate care when handling and cleaning.
Warranty
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