Tuttnauer
Tuttnauer 3870EA Large Capacity Automatic Steam Sterilizer
$21,950.00
Unit price perProduct Overview
The Tuttnauer 3870EA Automatic Autoclave is one of the largest and most powerful tabletop steam sterilizers available for medical, dental, veterinary, laboratory, and surgical environments. Designed for facilities requiring high-volume sterilization, the 3870EA combines an exceptionally large 85-liter chamber, advanced automatic controls, rapid cycle times, and closed-door active drying technology.
With the capacity to process up to 15 full-size instrument cassettes, the Tuttnauer 3870EA is the ideal sterilization solution for multi-provider practices, surgery centers, busy clinics, veterinary hospitals, research facilities, and healthcare organizations that demand efficiency, reliability, and consistent performance.
Why Choose the Tuttnauer 3870EA?
Large 85-Liter Sterilization Chamber
Accommodates long surgical instruments, large instrument sets, packs, pouches, glassware, and high-volume sterilization loads.
Fully Automatic Operation
Single-touch controls simplify sterilization while reducing operator workload.
Closed Door Active Drying
Maintains sterility after the cycle and promotes efficient drying of wrapped packs and pouches.
Ideal for High-Volume Practices
Perfect for surgery centers, large dental groups, veterinary hospitals, and medical facilities that process numerous instruments daily.
Superior Safety Features
Includes water-level monitoring, overheating protection, pressure monitoring, and dual safety locking mechanisms.
Detailed Product Description
Built for demanding healthcare environments, the Tuttnauer 3870EA offers exceptional chamber capacity and automation while maintaining the reliability that has made Tuttnauer a global leader in sterilization technology.
The 15" x 30" chamber provides space for longer surgical tools and large instrument loads that cannot fit inside standard tabletop autoclaves. Advanced microprocessor controls allow users to select sterilization programs quickly while maintaining sterilization consistency from cycle to cycle.
The integrated active drying system continues the drying process after sterilization to ensure instruments emerge ready for storage or immediate use. Combined with fast cycle times and customizable settings, the 3870EA helps facilities increase productivity without compromising infection control standards.
Key Features
✅ Large 85-Liter Capacity Chamber
✅ Fully Automatic Sterilization Cycles
✅ Closed Door Active Drying System
✅ Accommodates Up To 15 Full IMS Cassettes
✅ Customizable Program Settings
✅ Rapid Instrument Turnaround
✅ Stainless Steel Electropolished Chamber
✅ Optional Integrated Printer
✅ Power Failure Recovery System
✅ Automatic Water-Level Protection
✅ HEPA Filtration System
✅ 230V Operation
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Tuttnauer |
| Model | 3870EA |
| Sterilizer Type | Fully Automatic Steam Sterilizer |
| Chamber Size | 15" Diameter x 30" Depth |
| Chamber Volume | 85 Liters (22 Gallons) |
| Tray Capacity | 2 Large Trays |
| Full Cassette Capacity | Up to 15 Full IMS Cassettes |
| Tray Dimensions | 26.6" x 11.3" x 1" and 26.6" x 13.8" x 1" |
| External Dimensions | 34.5" D x 26" W x 20.6" H |
| Voltage | 230V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 3000W |
| Current | 13.6 Amps |
| Cold Start Cycle | Approximately 32 Minutes |
| Hot Start Cycle | Approximately 23 Minutes |
| Chamber Material | Electropolished Stainless Steel |
| Drying System | Closed Door Active Drying |
| Printer Option | Available |
| Warranty (New Unit) | 2 Years Parts & Labor, 10 Year Chamber |
| Warranty (Refurbished) | 90 days Parts & Labor |
Recommended Applications
Surgery Centers
Large-capacity sterilization of surgical instrument packs and procedure trays.
Multi-Doctor Dental Practices
Process multiple instrument cassettes efficiently between patients.
Veterinary Hospitals
Accommodates lengthy surgical tools and large sterilization loads.
Medical Clinics
Ideal for outpatient surgery centers, specialty clinics, and urgent care facilities.
Laboratories & Research Facilities
Suitable for sterilizing instruments, glassware, and laboratory equipment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How large is the chamber in the Tuttnauer 3870EA?
The 3870EA features a 15-inch diameter by 30-inch deep chamber with an 85-liter (22-gallon) capacity.
2. Is the 3870EA fully automatic?
Yes. It offers fully automatic operation with programmable sterilization cycles and single-touch controls.
3. How many cassettes can the chamber hold?
The chamber can accommodate up to 15 full-size IMS cassettes depending on loading configuration.
4. Does the 3870EA include a drying cycle?
Yes. The autoclave features a closed-door active drying system designed to maintain sterility while efficiently drying packs and pouches.
5. Is a printer available?
Yes. An integrated printer is available for cycle documentation and record-keeping.
6. What facilities commonly use the Tuttnauer 3870EA?
Surgery centers, dental clinics, veterinary hospitals, laboratories, medical practices, and healthcare facilities commonly use the 3870EA.
7. Does this autoclave require plumbing?
Sources indicate the unit uses a standard 230V connection and does not require additional plumbing.
8. What makes the 3870EA different from smaller autoclaves?
Its 85-liter chamber is more than twice the size of many standard tabletop sterilizers, making it ideal for large instrument loads and long surgical instruments.
9. How do I install the Tuttnauer 3870EA?
To install the Tuttnauer 3870EA, place it on a stable, level surface near a power source. Connect it to the appropriate electrical outlet as specified in the manual. Ensure that the area around the autoclave is well-ventilated. Follow the step-by-step installation instructions provided in the user manual to complete the setup.
10. What is the correct way to load items for sterilization?
Arrange the instruments and items in the chamber so that steam can circulate freely around them. Avoid overloading the chamber, and ensure that items do not touch the walls. Place smaller items on the top racks and larger items on the bottom. This ensures effective sterilization by allowing steam to reach all surfaces.
11. How do I know which cycle to use for different instruments?
Refer to the user manual for guidance on selecting the appropriate cycle. Different cycles are designed for various materials and instrument types. For example, delicate instruments may require a shorter cycle, while heavily soiled items may need a longer, more intensive cycle. The manual provides detailed instructions for choosing the right settings.
12. How do I keep the autoclave clean and prevent debris buildup?
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the autoclave’s performance. After each use, wipe down the chamber and trays with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Periodically, perform a deeper clean as instructed in the manual, including checking and cleaning filters and other components to prevent debris buildup.
13. What should I do if the autoclave shows an error code?
If an error code appears, consult the troubleshooting section of the user manual. Each error code corresponds to a specific issue, with recommended actions for resolution. Common fixes might include checking power connections, ensuring the door is properly closed, or resetting the machine. If the problem persists, contact customer support for assistance.
14. How often should I perform maintenance on the autoclave?
Routine maintenance should be performed regularly to ensure optimal performance. This includes daily cleaning, weekly checks of the chamber and door seals, and monthly inspections of the filters and other components. Follow the maintenance schedule provided in the user manual for detailed instructions.
15. How do I safely remove sterilized items from the autoclave?
Wait until the sterilization cycle is complete and the autoclave has cooled down. Ensure the pressure has fully released before opening the door. Use heat-resistant gloves to handle the sterilized items to avoid burns. Carefully unload the items, ensuring they do not come into contact with any unsterile surfaces.
Technical Specifications of the Tuttnauer 3870 Large Capacity Autoclave
Capacity and Chamber Size:
-
- Volume: 85 liters (22.5 gallons)
- Chamber Dimensions: 384 mm diameter x 760 mm depth (15 inches x 30 inches)
This large volume is suitable for sterilizing a significant number of instruments or large equipment in a single cycle, making it ideal for medical facilities, laboratories, and industrial applications.
Temperature Range:
-
- Operating temperature ranges from 105°C to 137°C (221°F to 279°F).
The autoclave achieves these temperatures to ensure the destruction of microorganisms, including highly resistant bacterial spores. The elevated temperature denatures proteins and disrupts cellular structures, leading to sterilization.
Pressure Range:
- The working pressure range is approximately 0.7 to 2.5 bar (10.15 to 36.25 psi)
Pressure is integral to achieving the high temperatures necessary for sterilization. The autoclave's pressure system ensures that steam penetrates materials being sterilized, facilitating efficient heat transfer and ensuring uniform temperature distribution.
Cycle Types and Control System:
- Pre-set Cycles: The autoclave features pre-programmed cycles for different load types such as instruments, liquids, and waste.
- Customizable Cycles: Users can customize cycles to meet specific requirements, adjusting parameters like temperature, pressure, and duration.
- Control System: Utilizes a microprocessor-based control system to precisely regulate operating conditions. The digital interface allows users to monitor real-time cycle parameters and make adjustments as needed.
Safety Features:
- Automatic Shut-off: The autoclave automatically shuts off at the end of sterilization and drying cycles to prevent overheating and overuse.
- Safety Valve: Prevents over-pressurization by releasing excess pressure, thereby safeguarding the system.
- Door Safety Lock: Ensures that the door cannot be opened while the chamber is pressurized, preventing accidents and ensuring user safety.
Construction:
- Materials: The autoclave is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and ensures durability under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions.
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Design: Ergonomic design features facilitate easy loading and unloading, and the construction supports efficient heat transfer and pressure maintenance.
Principles of Operation
Sterilization by Saturated Steam
- Mechanism: The primary sterilization method involves saturated steam under pressure. The steam transfers heat to the items within the chamber, and the combination of high temperature and moisture denatures proteins and disrupts cell membranes and DNA.
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Temperature and Pressure Correlation: The autoclave uses the principle that water boils at higher temperatures when under pressure. By increasing the pressure within the chamber, the boiling point of water (and thus the temperature of the steam) increases, allowing for more effective sterilization.
Microprocessor Control
- Function: The microprocessor manages the cycle parameters (temperature, pressure, and time) with high precision. It receives input from sensors within the chamber and adjusts heating elements and valves to maintain the desired conditions.
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Advantages: This control system enhances repeatability and reliability of sterilization cycles, ensuring consistent performance and effective sterilization.
Heat Transfer and Moisture Penetration
- Heat Transfer: Effective sterilization requires uniform heat distribution. The autoclave’s design ensures that steam circulates throughout the chamber, transferring heat to all surfaces of the items being sterilized.
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Moisture Penetration: Moist heat (steam) is more effective at penetrating materials than dry heat. The steam condenses on cooler surfaces, releasing latent heat and ensuring thorough sterilization of complex instruments and porous materials.
Tuttnauer 3870EA Large Capacity Automatic Steam Sterilizer
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