SV Technocrats India’s Hot Air Oven is a laboratory device used for dry heat sterilization and material testing. It operates by circulating hot air at controlled temperatures, ensuring uniform heating for sterilization, drying, and baking of materials.
Components of a Hot Air Oven
Outer Body – Made of mild steel or stainless steel with insulation to prevent heat loss.
Inner Chamber – Stainless steel interior for durability and heat resistance.
Heating Elements – Electric coils or nichrome wire generate heat.
Temperature Control System – Thermostat or digital PID controller maintains precise temperatures.
Air Circulation System – Blower fans ensure even heat distribution.
Shelves – Adjustable trays for placing samples.
Door with Glass Window – Allows observation without heat loss.
Working Principle
Convection Heating: The heating element warms the air, and forced convection (fan-assisted) distributes it evenly inside the chamber.
Sterilization Process: High temperatures (50°C to 300°C) kill bacteria, viruses, and spores through oxidation.
Uses of Hot Air Oven
Sterilization
Used in hospitals, pharmaceutical labs, and microbiology to sterilize glassware, petri dishes, and instruments.
Preferred over autoclaves for materials sensitive to moisture (e.g., powders, oils).
Material Testing
Concrete & Aggregates: Drying samples for moisture content analysis.
Rubber & Plastics: Heat resistance and aging tests.
Paints & Coatings: Drying and curing of coated materials.
Food & Chemical Industry
Drying food samples for moisture content analysis.
Heat treatment of chemical substances.
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Preheat the Oven – Set the required temperature and allow stabilization.
Load the Samples – Place materials on shelves without overcrowding.
Set the Timer – Sterilization typically requires 1-2 hours at 160-180°C.
Cool Down – Allow gradual cooling before opening.
Advantages of Hot Air Ovens
✅ Uniform Heating – Ensures consistent temperature throughout.
✅ Dry Heat Sterilization – No moisture, ideal for metal and glass items.
✅ Energy Efficient – Insulated body reduces heat loss.