Patent ID: 7569182
Filing Date: 2009-08-04
Classification: A61L,C02F

Abstract:
1. A method of operating a sterilizer having a chamber for receiving items to be sterilized, a fluid circulation system for circulating fluids through said chamber, means for generating a liquid sterilant from dry chemical reagents by mixing water therewith, and a water filtration system for filtering water entering said sterilizer, said filtration system including: a fluid feed line that is attached to said chamber, a directional valve disposed in said fluid feed line, a first filter element in said fluid feed line, for filtering fluids therethrough, said first filter element located between said directional valve and said chamber and downstream of said directional valve, a second filter element in said fluid feed line for filtering fluids flowing therethrough, said second filter element located between said first filter element and said chamber, a water line connected to said fluid feed line at an intersection located between said directional valve and said first filter element, and a bypass line connected to said fluid feed line to define a fluid path that bypasses said directional valve and said first and second filter elements, said method of operating comprising the steps of: filling said sterilizer with water from a water source, by passing said water through said first and second filter elements; generating a liquid sterilant by mixing water filtered by said first and second filter elements with said dry chemical reagents; circulating said liquid sterilant through said fluid circulation system and said filtration system wherein a portion of said liquid sterilant is directed through said first and second filter elements, and a portion is directed through said bypass conduit; draining said sterilizer after a predetermined exposure time; passing water for rinsing from said water line through said first and second filter elements; heating said water for rinsing after said water for rinsing has passed through said first and second filter elements; and introducing said water for rinsing into said chamber.