Hospitals, dental clinics, and laboratories use portable autoclaves like pressure cookers to help in sterilising processes. They apply high-pressure hot steams to various surfaces, thereby destroying pathogenic living organisms that cause diseases or infections. The design of the autoclave is compact, making it easy to transport, thus ideal for mobile health facilities or limited spaces. Built strongly with a tight lock mechanism, it is durable, resisting corrosion.

An autoclave works through a controlled heating/pressurising cycle followed by sterilizing/depressurizing cycles, among other things. Inside the autoclave, distilled water gets converted into steam during this process; its first step has been filled with distilled water beforehand. Bags or containers to be sterilised are then placed into the autoclave so that they can come into contact with steam. Water boils faster inside when heated elements are switched on, raising their temperature until boiling point is attained; therefore, this results in the formation of steam inside them. If there are stringent conditions under which an autoclave operates, it will maintain the required sterilising condition within particular time limits.

In addition to indicating the completion of a sterilisation cycle, these devices have features such as pressure gauges, temperature sensors, and automatic shut-off system indicators. It should be calibrated properly and serviced regularly so that it can continue to function in accordance with safety requirements by OSHA.