Autoclaves & Dry Sterilisers

Precision sterilisation starts with Labec.

Our range of laboratory autoclaves and dry heat sterilisers gives your team the control, reliability, and confidence needed for uncompromising hygiene and compliance. Whether you’re in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, research, or pathology, our equipment is designed to meet strict sterilisation demands – day in, day out.

What Smart Sterilisation Looks Like in a Lab

Sterilisation is critical for maintaining sample integrity, preventing contamination, and meeting safety and hygiene standards in medical and research settings.

Our autoclave equipment uses high-pressure saturated steam to eliminate all microbial life (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores) from laboratory materials and tools. For moisture-sensitive materials, dry heat sterilisers offer an equally robust alternative, using hot air instead of steam.

Labec also provides advanced laboratory water baths and CO2 incubators for seamless microbiology, cell culture, or biomedical research lab workflows.

Autoclave Machines vs Dry Heat Steriliser: What’s the Difference?

Choosing a sterilisation machine depends on the materials you’re working with.

Autoclaves are ideal for heat and moisture-tolerant items such as metal instruments, glassware, and textiles, sterilising at 121°C to 134°C under pressure for fast, effective treatment. 

Dry heat sterilisers work best for powders, oils, sharp instruments, or sealed containers where moisture is a concern. These units operate at higher temperatures, typically 160°C to 180°C, over longer cycles.

Autoclave Equipment Designed for Critical Applications

Our autoclave machines ensure dependable, validated performance, cycle after cycle. Trusted across sectors, including:

• Microbiology & Pathology: Sterilise sample containers, reusable tools, and contaminated waste to help prevent cross-contamination and ensure safe lab environments.
• Pharmaceuticals: Maintain hygienic conditions during product development, testing, and cleanroom research workflows with our autoclave sterilisers.
• Food Testing: Ensure accurate results in food safety and quality control labs with sterilisation before microbiological testing.
• Veterinary & Medical Practices: Supports safe patient care with germ-free surgical instruments, dental tools, and laboratory accessories between uses.
• Education & Training: Enables safe and consistent sterilisation in universities, TAFEs, and school science labs, supporting future professionals with real-world equipment.

Drive Safety & Effectiveness: Best Practices for Autoclave Sterilisers

To get the most out of your autoclave steriliser, always:

• Avoid overloading the chamber to ensure the steam has space to circulate.
• Use proper containers and autoclave-safe bags.
• Monitor temperature and pressure with built-in safety features.
• Keep logs of each sterilisation cycle for compliance.
• Regularly service and calibrate your unit.

Why Choose Labec Autoclaves?

With over 80 years of experience behind us, we deliver medical autoclaves and dry heat sterilisers built for reliability, safety, and long-term performance.

• Locally made, locally supported equipment with spare parts available.
• Customisation options for chamber size, loading style, and performance features.
• Validated performance, trusted by medical, government, and pharma sectors.
• Short lead times so you can upgrade or replace your medical autoclaves without delay.
• Ongoing calibration and dedicated service support.

Sterilise Smarter with Labec

Reliable sterilisation shouldn’t be complicated. Whether you need a high-performance laboratory autoclave or a purpose-built dry heat steriliser, Labec gives you control, confidence, and clarity, every time.

Browse our collection or speak to the Labec team for guidance on selecting the right unit. Let’s build better lab performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I choose the right laboratory autoclave for my specific research needs?

To choose the right laboratory autoclave for your specific needs, consider the volume and type of material you will sterilise, available space, loading requirements (front or top loading), automation options, and cleaning capabilities. Additionally, calibration and performance qualification testing are essential for ensuring autoclave machines’ reliable functionality.

What is the difference between autoclave sterilisation and dry sterilisation methods?

Autoclave sterilisation uses high-pressure steam to achieve sterilisation, while dry sterilisation methods rely on heat without moisture. Autoclaves are suitable for heat-resistant materials, while dry methods are used for heat-sensitive items. The choice primarily depends on material properties and sterilisation requirements.

Are there specific materials or items that are better suited for autoclave sterilisation over dry sterilisation?

Yes, autoclave sterilisation is best suited for heat-resistant materials such as glassware, metal instruments, and certain plastics that can withstand high temperatures and moisture without damage or compromise. On the other hand, dry sterilisation works best for heat-sensitive materials that may be adversely affected by exposure to moisture and high temperatures and moisture.

How can I choose between autoclave and dry sterilisation for my specific sterilisation needs?

To choose between autoclave and dry sterilisation methods, consider the items’ nature and their tolerance to heat and moisture. Autoclave sterilisation is effective for heat-resistant materials while dry methods are better suited for heat-sensitive items. Hence, you need to assess the requirements of your specific sterilisation needs, such as the types of materials involved and any potential risks or limitations.