The Midmark M11 is a fully-automated, microprocessor-controlled sterilizer with an 11-inch, round, stainless-steel chamber. The exterior dimensions of the sterilizer are 17 inches high by 18 inches wide by 22 inches deep (handle included) or 22¾ inches deep (with power cord connector). The system operates at 110/120 volts ± 5 %, 50/60 Hz, with a loading of 1.4kW. The unit is also available as 220/240 volts ± 5%, 50/60 Hz, with a loading of 1.5kW. The sterilizer can be configured for plug-in or hard- wired connection and requires a 20- ampere circuit breaker. A dedicated electrical circuit is recommended for fault- free operation. The microprocessor- controlled parameters are constantly monitored to assure proper sterilization for each program cycle selected. The controller sequences through the complete cycle at the touch of one of the four icon-marked programs on the Padswitch (e.g., wrapped, unwrapped, paper/plastic pouches, or liquids). All selections are preset for drying except for the liquids cycle. Upon completion of the sterilization cycle, the unit exhausts and the door automatically opens. Cycle completion is announced by five series of three audible beeps. The display shows "Drying" for the next 30 minutes. At the end of the drying period, another audible signal consisting of five series of three beeps occurs. The display then shows "Complete." All sterilization parameters (date, time, pressure, and temperature), are digitally displayed and can be recorded with an optional printer. The digital display indicates functioning checks during operation and error codes for testing and trouble shooting. The sterilizer is UL Listed and ISO 9001 certified.
The Midmark M11 UltraClave sterilizer proved to be very reliable throughout the evaluation period. With efficiency being a product of cycle speed and drying time, the Midmark M11 is comparable to other tabletop sterilizers. The user-friendly appearance and controls make it easy to use while being informative during all phases of operation. Its microprocessor operation allows for accurate cycle management while providing diagnostics to identify proper functioning. It has a unique, automatic door opener, which aids in instrument drying, while a safety latch prevents complete door opening to protect the operator. The sterilizer has four cycles: liquids, flash, wrapped, and paper/plastic pouches. The chamber’s wire rack options allow cassette racks or trays. The unit can be back flushed, which aids in cleaning. Door gasket replacement, chamber filter cleaning, and reservoir cleaning can be accomplished without tools. Standard, off-the-shelf parts can be used for some repairs. Documentation is well organized with pictorial aids and exploded parts diagrams to assist in servicing. An optional printer is available for documenting sterilizer parameters. The sterilizer is an appropriate choice for clinics of all sizes.
The unit is front-end heavy, and when the chamber door is opened the unit's center of gravity is changed such that minimal additional weight on the chamber door could result in the sterilizer tipping forward. The wire rack and bottom tray can be assembled and installed upside down and backwards which could result in damage to the chamber filter. Access to the reservoir’s filler spout is limited, which precludes using containers with wide openings. The non-uni-body construction of the exterior covers of the unit and the need to reposition the power connector from the back of the unit during servicing both make servicing cumbersome. The top cover must also be in place for testing during maintenance, which requires repetitive assembly/disassembly. The unit does not have a power on/off switch.
This review has been adapted from the DECS website. The DECS has no formal association with Dentalcompare or with vendors listed on dentalcompare.com. The DECS does not specifically endorse any particular product or vendor and is provided for informational purposes only.
