Which type of autoclave is referred to as B-type?

The B-type autoclave, also known as a vacuum autoclave, is specifically designed to ensure thorough sterilization of porous loads and items wrapped in materials that may trap air, such as textiles. It utilizes a vacuum system to eliminate air from the chamber before introducing steam, allowing for better penetration of the steam into all areas of the load. This process is critical in dental practices where instruments may have complex shapes or porous materials, ensuring a higher level of sterility.

The vacuum phase is essential because it prevents air pockets from forming, which can hinder the sterilization process. By efficiently removing air and replacing it with steam, B-type autoclaves provide effective sterilization, making them a preferred choice in healthcare settings. Other types of autoclaves, such as gravity displacement, may not effectively sterilize certain loads due to less effective steam penetration, and dry heat sterilizers work through a different mechanism that is not suitable for all instruments, particularly those that are moisture-sensitive.