Tuttnauer 3870M 85L Large-Capacity Manual Autoclave – New
The Tuttnauer 3870M 85L Manual Autoclave provides substantially greater sterilization capacity than conventional tabletop systems while retaining the straightforward operation and proven reliability of Tuttnauer's M Series. With an 85-liter chamber measuring approximately 15 inches in diameter by 30 inches deep, two large instrument trays, capacity for up to 15 standard full-size cassettes, and an included three-shelf stand, the 3870M is designed for laboratories and professional facilities with demanding sterilization workloads.
American Instrument Exchange is a distributor of brand-new Tuttnauer autoclaves and sterilizers, supplying laboratories and professional facilities throughout Massachusetts, New England, the Northeast, and across the United States. The Tuttnauer 3870M is supplied new from the manufacturer and includes Tuttnauer's current 1-year parts-and-labor manufacturer’s warranty.
The 3870M occupies an important position in Tuttnauer's manual autoclave lineup. Smaller models such as the 2340M and 2540M provide convenient benchtop sterilization for modest loads, while the 3870M increases chamber capacity to approximately 85 liters, or 22 gallons. This makes it an attractive option for organizations that need to process larger quantities of instruments or longer items but still value the simplicity, durability, and serviceability of a manual steam sterilizer.
Tuttnauer 3870M Key Features
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Brand-new Tuttnauer large-capacity manual steam autoclave
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85-liter / 22-gallon chamber
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Large 15-inch-diameter × 30-inch-deep chamber
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Accommodates longer instruments and larger-volume loads
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Two large instrument trays
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Capacity for up to 15 standard full-size cassettes
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Straightforward manual/electromechanical operation
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Approximately 32-minute standard unwrapped cycle from a cold start
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Approximately 23-minute standard unwrapped cycle from a hot start
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Automatic shutoff at the end of sterilization and drying cycles
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Electropolished stainless steel chamber and door
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Double safety door-locking mechanism
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Dual safety thermostat with overheat protection
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Convenient front-mounted reservoir drain
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Supplied with a three-shelf stand
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230 V, 50–60 Hz operation
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3,000 W heating system
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Brand new from Tuttnauer
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Includes Tuttnauer manufacturer’s warranty
Overview
The Tuttnauer 3870M is a large-capacity manual steam autoclave designed for organizations that have outgrown conventional tabletop sterilizers but do not necessarily need a highly automated or floor-standing institutional sterilization system.
Its defining feature is its 85-liter chamber. Measuring approximately 15 inches in diameter by 30 inches deep, the chamber provides dramatically more loading space than smaller tabletop autoclaves and can accommodate longer instruments, large quantities of smaller instruments, and other compatible heat- and moisture-resistant materials.
This larger chamber makes the 3870M particularly attractive for busy laboratories, veterinary facilities, clinics, surgical environments, research institutions, and other organizations where sterilization volume can overwhelm smaller tabletop units.
Despite its significantly greater capacity, the 3870M retains the straightforward manual operating philosophy of Tuttnauer's established M Series. Operators are not required to navigate complex touchscreen menus, network systems, or software platforms. For facilities with trained personnel and established sterilization procedures, this simpler architecture can provide an effective combination of capacity, durability, and ease of use.
The 3870M also incorporates automatic shutoff at the end of both sterilization and drying cycles. This adds a useful degree of convenience to the otherwise straightforward manual platform.
Durability is another important aspect of the design. The chamber and door are constructed from long-life electropolished stainless steel, while a double safety locking mechanism helps prevent the door from opening while the chamber is pressurized. Dual safety thermostats and automatic shutoff provide additional protection against overheating.
Unlike smaller Tuttnauer tabletop autoclaves intended to sit directly on an existing counter, the 3870M is supplied with a dedicated three-shelf stand. This creates a practical freestanding sterilization workstation while providing additional storage beneath the autoclave.
For organizations that need substantially more capacity than a 19- or 23-liter sterilizer can provide but prefer the simplicity of a manual system, the 3870M fills an important role in the Tuttnauer product line.
Tuttnauer 3870M Common Applications
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High-volume sterilization of compatible reusable laboratory instruments
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Processing of longer instruments that may not fit smaller tabletop chambers
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Sterilization of large quantities of unwrapped solid instruments
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Veterinary and animal research instrument processing
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Medical and surgical instrument sterilization
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Academic and institutional laboratory support
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Biotechnology and life-science research workflows
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Microbiology laboratory applications
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Pharmaceutical and industrial quality-control support
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Shared laboratory sterilization facilities
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Centralized instrument-processing areas
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Facilities replacing multiple smaller tabletop autoclaves
Tuttnauer 3870M Ideal Laboratory and Facility Environments
The Tuttnauer 3870M is particularly well suited for facilities where sterilization volume has become too great for conventional tabletop autoclaves.
Research laboratories may benefit from the large chamber when multiple users or research groups share sterilization equipment. Instead of processing numerous small loads through a 19- or 23-liter autoclave, appropriate materials can potentially be consolidated into larger loads, improving workflow and reducing the number of cycles required during the day.
Universities and academic institutions may find the 3870M especially useful in shared laboratory environments. Teaching laboratories, research departments, core facilities, and centralized equipment rooms often need to support numerous users, making chamber capacity an important purchasing consideration.
Veterinary facilities and animal research organizations can benefit from the 30-inch chamber depth when processing longer compatible instruments or larger quantities of reusable equipment. Medical and surgical environments with suitable load types may benefit for similar reasons.
Biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food-testing, environmental-testing, and industrial quality-control laboratories may also use the 3870M as a centralized sterilization system for appropriate instruments and other compatible materials.
The 3870M can additionally make sense for organizations currently operating several smaller autoclaves simply to meet daily throughput requirements. Depending on workflow, consolidating appropriate loads into a single 85-liter chamber may provide a more efficient solution.
Because this is a manual gravity-displacement autoclave, facilities requiring advanced pre-vacuum processing, sophisticated electronic cycle documentation, or highly specialized sterilization programs should compare the 3870M with other Tuttnauer systems designed for those requirements.
Manual Steam Sterilization
The Tuttnauer 3870M uses saturated steam under pressure to sterilize compatible heat- and moisture-resistant materials.
The system uses gravity displacement rather than active pre-vacuum air removal. As steam enters the chamber, cooler air is displaced while the chamber and properly arranged load are heated to the required sterilization conditions.
Gravity displacement remains a practical sterilization method for many routine solid loads. The 3870M expands this basic approach into a much larger chamber, allowing facilities to process greater quantities of appropriate materials during each cycle.
Proper loading becomes especially important in a large chamber. Instruments and other materials should be arranged to support steam circulation and avoid conditions where trapped air can interfere with steam contact.
The manual/electromechanical operating format also makes trained operators and established procedures important. Facilities should follow appropriate loading, cycle-selection, monitoring, maintenance, and quality-control practices for the materials being processed.
Organizations that routinely process complex hollow, porous, wrapped, or vacuum-dependent loads should evaluate whether a pre-vacuum autoclave would be more appropriate for their application.
Tuttnauer 3870M Chamber Capacity and Workflow
The defining feature of the Tuttnauer 3870M is its 85-liter, or approximately 22-gallon, sterilization chamber.
The cylindrical chamber measures approximately 15 inches in diameter by 30 inches deep, or 385 mm × 760 mm. This makes the 3870M dramatically larger than conventional tabletop Tuttnauer autoclaves.
For comparison, the Tuttnauer 2540M provides approximately 23 liters of chamber capacity with a 10-inch-diameter × 19-inch-deep chamber. The 3870M therefore provides more than three-and-a-half times the nominal chamber volume of the 2540M.
That additional capacity can change how a busy facility approaches sterilization. Rather than running repeated small loads throughout the day, users may be able to process larger quantities of compatible materials during each cycle.
The chamber accommodates two large trays. One measures approximately 26.6 inches deep × 11.3 inches wide × 1 inch high, while the second measures approximately 26.6 inches deep × 13.8 inches wide × 1 inch high.
Tuttnauer lists capacity for up to 15 standard full-size cassettes, providing a useful indication of the amount of material the chamber can accommodate.
Despite the significantly larger chamber, cycle times remain practical. Tuttnauer lists the standard unwrapped cycle at approximately 32 minutes from a cold start and approximately 23 minutes from a hot start.
Actual cycle times can vary according to instrument load and operating conditions.
For high-volume facilities, throughput should be evaluated based on both cycle duration and the amount of material processed during each cycle. The 3870M's major advantage is not simply cycle speed; it is the ability to process substantially larger loads without requiring numerous cycles through a smaller sterilizer.
Choosing the Right New Tuttnauer Autoclave
The Tuttnauer 3870M is a strong choice for facilities that need substantially greater chamber capacity while still preferring the simplicity of a manual autoclave.
The first consideration should be load size and daily throughput. A smaller Tuttnauer 2340M or 2540M may be entirely adequate for facilities processing modest instrument loads. Organizations routinely filling those chambers several times per day may benefit from moving to a larger system.
The 3870M increases capacity to approximately 85 liters and provides a 30-inch-deep chamber. This makes it suitable not only for larger-volume loads but also for compatible longer instruments that may not physically fit into smaller tabletop chambers.
Available space must also be considered. The 3870M is substantially larger than conventional tabletop autoclaves and is supplied with a dedicated three-shelf stand. Facilities should therefore plan an appropriate installation area rather than assuming the sterilizer will fit on an existing laboratory countertop.
Electrical service is another important consideration. The 3870M requires approximately 230 V, 50–60 Hz power and uses a 3,000 W heating system. Appropriate electrical service should be confirmed before purchase.
Automation requirements should also influence model selection. The 3870M deliberately emphasizes straightforward manual operation. Facilities requiring touchscreen controls, programmable automatic cycles, digital documentation, network connectivity, or active pre-vacuum processing should consider other Tuttnauer platforms.
For facilities with trained operators, suitable load types, and significant capacity requirements, however, the 3870M provides an unusual combination of large chamber volume and relatively simple operation.
American Instrument Exchange can help customers compare the 3870M with smaller Tuttnauer tabletop autoclaves and larger automatic or semi-automatic sterilizers based on chamber capacity, load type, available utilities, workflow, and budget.
Tuttnauer 3870M Key Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Tuttnauer |
| Model |
3870M |
| Series |
M Series |
| Condition |
Brand new from manufacturer |
| Sterilizer Type |
Large-capacity manual gravity-displacement steam autoclave |
| Chamber Capacity |
85 L / 22 gal |
| Chamber Dimensions |
15 in diameter × 30 in deep (385 × 760 mm) |
| Exterior Dimensions |
34.5 in D × 26 in W × 20.6 in H (875 × 665 × 525 mm) |
| Chamber Construction |
Electropolished stainless steel |
| Door Construction |
Electropolished stainless steel |
| Number of Trays |
2 |
| Tray 1 Dimensions |
26.6 in D × 11.3 in W × 1 in H |
| Tray 2 Dimensions |
26.6 in D × 13.8 in W × 1 in H |
| Standard Cassette Capacity |
Up to 15 full-size cassettes |
| Sterilization Method |
Saturated steam under pressure |
| Air Removal |
Gravity displacement |
| Control System |
Manual / electromechanical |
| Standard Unwrapped Cycle – Cold Start |
Approximately 32 minutes |
| Standard Unwrapped Cycle – Hot Start |
Approximately 23 minutes |
| End-of-Cycle Operation |
Automatic shutoff after sterilization and drying cycles |
| Safety Lock |
Double safety door-locking mechanism |
| Overheat Protection |
Dual safety thermostat and automatic shutoff |
| Reservoir Drain |
Front-mounted drain valve |
| Electrical Requirements |
230 V, 50–60 Hz |
| Required Voltage Range |
Approximately 220–235 V |
| Current |
Approximately 13.6 A |
| Power Consumption |
Approximately 3,000 W |
| Included Stand |
Three-shelf stand |
| Stand Dimensions |
Approximately 30 in W × 36 in D × 34 in H |
| Shipping Weight |
Approximately 278 lb / 126 kg including stand |
| Warranty |
1-year Tuttnauer parts-and-labor warranty |
Current specifications are based on Tuttnauer's published U.S. technical information for the 3870M. Customers should confirm current production configuration, included accessories, electrical requirements, installation requirements, shipping details, and warranty terms with American Instrument Exchange when ordering.
Installation and Utility Requirements
Because of its 85-liter chamber and overall size, the Tuttnauer 3870M requires more installation planning than a conventional tabletop autoclave.
The sterilizer itself measures approximately 34.5 inches deep × 26 inches wide × 20.6 inches high. Tuttnauer supplies the 3870M with a dedicated three-shelf stand measuring approximately 30 inches wide × 36 inches deep × 34 inches high.
This configuration creates a practical freestanding sterilization station and provides useful storage space beneath the autoclave.
Facilities should allow additional room around the equipment for ventilation, front-door movement, loading and unloading, maintenance, and service access. The long chamber and large door should be considered when selecting the installation location.
The 3870M operates on approximately 230 V, 50–60 Hz electrical service and uses a 3,000 W heating system drawing approximately 13.6 A. Tuttnauer specifies an operating voltage range of approximately 220–235 V.
Facility voltage should be verified before installation. Where line voltage falls outside the required range, a properly sized buck/boost transformer may be necessary.
The 3870M generates steam internally and does not require a central building steam supply, making installation considerably simpler than many large institutional autoclaves.
Water quality should meet Tuttnauer recommendations. Inappropriate water can contribute to mineral deposits, chamber scaling, heater deterioration, valve problems, and increased maintenance requirements.
The reservoir drain valve is conveniently positioned at the front of the sterilizer to simplify routine drainage.
Because the 3870M and included stand have a shipping weight of approximately 278 pounds, customers should also consider building access, doorways, elevators, loading docks, and final placement when planning delivery.
American Instrument Exchange can help customers review electrical service, equipment dimensions, shipping requirements, and installation considerations before the autoclave is ordered.
Why Buy a New Tuttnauer 3870M from American Instrument Exchange?
American Instrument Exchange supplies brand-new Tuttnauer autoclaves directly to laboratories and professional facilities throughout New England, the Northeast, and across the United States. The Tuttnauer 3870M is supplied new from the manufacturer and includes the applicable manufacturer’s warranty.
Choosing a large-capacity autoclave requires more planning than purchasing a small tabletop sterilizer. Chamber dimensions, load types, electrical service, available floor space, delivery access, daily throughput, and operator requirements all influence whether a particular model is appropriate.
American Instrument Exchange can help customers evaluate these considerations before ordering.
Our Haverhill, Massachusetts location gives laboratories, biotechnology companies, universities, veterinary facilities, healthcare organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and other customers throughout Massachusetts and New England a regional source for new Tuttnauer sterilization equipment.
The 3870M can be particularly attractive for organizations that have outgrown smaller tabletop sterilizers but do not need the complexity of a highly automated large-capacity system. Its combination of an 85-liter chamber, manual operation, and proven Tuttnauer construction creates a distinctive option for high-volume sterilization.
Because American Instrument Exchange offers both brand-new Tuttnauer autoclaves and professionally refurbished sterilizers, customers can compare new and refurbished equipment based on capacity, features, warranty preferences, budget, and project timeline.
Customers can contact American Instrument Exchange for current pricing, availability, electrical configurations, shipping information, and assistance selecting the appropriate Tuttnauer autoclave for their facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tuttnauer 3870M sold new by American Instrument Exchange?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange offers the Tuttnauer 3870M brand new from the manufacturer rather than as a used or refurbished autoclave.
How large is the Tuttnauer 3870M chamber?
The 3870M has an approximately 85-liter, or 22-gallon, chamber measuring about 15 inches in diameter by 30 inches deep.
How does the 3870M compare with smaller Tuttnauer autoclaves?
The 3870M provides substantially greater capacity. For example, the Tuttnauer 2540M has a 23-liter chamber, while the 3870M provides approximately 85 liters. The larger model is intended for facilities processing larger quantities of instruments or longer compatible items.
How many trays does the Tuttnauer 3870M include?
The 3870M includes two large trays. One measures approximately 26.6 × 11.3 × 1 inches, while the other measures approximately 26.6 × 13.8 × 1 inches.
How many standard cassettes can the 3870M hold?
Tuttnauer lists capacity for up to 15 standard full-size cassettes.
How fast is the Tuttnauer 3870M?
Tuttnauer currently lists the standard unwrapped cycle at approximately 32 minutes from a cold start and approximately 23 minutes from a hot start. Actual cycle time may vary according to instrument load and operating conditions.
Is the Tuttnauer 3870M automatic?
The 3870M is primarily a manual/electromechanical autoclave, although it provides automatic shutoff at the end of both the sterilization and drying cycles.
Is the Tuttnauer 3870M a pre-vacuum autoclave?
No. The 3870M uses gravity displacement rather than active pre-vacuum air removal.
Does the Tuttnauer 3870M include a stand?
Yes. Tuttnauer supplies the 3870M with a three-shelf stand. This allows the large sterilizer to function as a freestanding system while providing storage space underneath.
What are the exterior dimensions of the 3870M?
The autoclave itself measures approximately 34.5 inches deep × 26 inches wide × 20.6 inches high.
What electrical service does the 3870M require?
The 3870M requires approximately 230 V, 50–60 Hz electrical service and is rated at approximately 3,000 W and 13.6 A. Tuttnauer specifies an operating voltage range of approximately 220–235 V.
Does the 3870M require a building steam connection?
No. The autoclave generates steam internally and does not require a central building steam supply.
How much does the Tuttnauer 3870M weigh?
Tuttnauer lists a shipping weight of approximately 278 pounds, or 126 kg, including the stand.
Does the new Tuttnauer 3870M include a manufacturer’s warranty?
Yes. Tuttnauer currently specifies a 1-year parts-and-labor warranty for the 3870M.
Is the Tuttnauer 3870M suitable for a high-volume laboratory?
Yes, for appropriate load types. The 85-liter chamber and 30-inch depth make the 3870M particularly attractive for laboratories that need significantly more capacity than conventional tabletop autoclaves provide.
Can the 3870M accommodate long instruments?
Yes. Its approximately 30-inch-deep chamber is specifically advantageous for compatible longer instruments that may not fit into smaller tabletop autoclaves.
Should I choose a 3870M or several smaller autoclaves?
That depends on workflow. Facilities processing many compatible materials at once may benefit from consolidating loads into the 85-liter 3870M. Organizations that need separate sterilizers for different departments or simultaneous independent cycles may benefit from multiple smaller systems.
Who is the Tuttnauer 3870M best suited for?
The 3870M is particularly well suited for high-volume laboratories, universities, veterinary facilities, medical and surgical environments, research institutions, biotechnology companies, and other organizations that need large chamber capacity but prefer relatively simple manual operation.
Can American Instrument Exchange supply the Tuttnauer 3870M throughout New England?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange supplies new Tuttnauer equipment throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, the broader Northeast, and nationwide.
Can American Instrument Exchange help with delivery and installation planning?
Yes. Because the 3870M is substantially larger and heavier than a conventional tabletop autoclave, American Instrument Exchange can help customers review dimensions, electrical requirements, delivery access, shipping, and placement considerations before ordering.
