The main structure of the equipment we sell – pressure vessels, frames – have a life expectancy which usually outlasts the facilities they are installed in, many are now over 20 years old. Given regular maintenance and care, years of reliable service can be expected. This applies to the mechanical, pneumatic and electrical systems installed.
However, over such a long period two different categories of equipment upgrades come into play:

Process controllers have a reasonable life span – in excess of ten years – but electronic components older than this can become hard to source. At some point it becomes prudent to upgrade the controller to a current model. This inevitably entails changes to the software, possibly to some instrumentation and electrical systems, and invariably a partial re-validation. Upgrade costs are not trivial, but extend the life of the installation by several years so are often judged preferable to the disruption that comes with purchasing a new unit.

Process upgrades. Changes in process demands or regulatory expectations can lead to additional functionality being retro-fitted to units, particularly autoclaves. Jacket cooling, air detectors, steam quality test points, independent recording; all these add-ons result in modifications to the pipework and control valves fitted.
SteriTech have extensive experience in advising and organising upgrades to autoclaves, ovens and pure steam generators.
For more information on equipment servicing or technical assistance please follow the link to ‘Contact Us’ for e-mail and telephone details.