Market Forge STM-EL Sterilmatic Autoclave
Shipping
All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse
Shipping
All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse
Reliable steam sterilization is essential for laboratories that routinely process glassware, instruments, culture media, liquids, and other heat-resistant materials. The refurbished Market Forge STM-EL Sterilmatic Autoclave from American Instrument Exchange combines a large 85-liter chamber with straightforward controls, adjustable sterilization temperature, and a durable horizontal configuration designed for demanding day-to-day use.
With a 16-inch-diameter × 26-inch-deep chamber, the Market Forge STM-EL provides considerably more usable capacity than many smaller tabletop autoclaves while maintaining a relatively compact footprint. Fast exhaust supports efficient processing of instruments and glassware, while slow exhaust provides the controlled depressurization needed for compatible liquid loads. This particular unit also includes a stainless steel stand, creating a practical floor-standing sterilization station without requiring dedicated counter space.
This used Market Forge STM-EL has been reconditioned, inspected, and tested by American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.
Large 85 L (approximately 22-gallon) sterilization chamber
16-inch diameter × 26-inch deep horizontal chamber
Adjustable sterilization temperature from approximately 110°C to 121°C
Fast exhaust for instruments and glassware
Slow exhaust for compatible liquid loads
Approximately 10-minute preheat from a cold start under specified conditions
Self-sealing safety door that remains secured while the chamber is pressurized
Low-water cutoff to help protect heating elements
ASME-constructed and National Board-registered pressure vessel
Polished stainless steel exterior
Includes stainless steel equipment stand
Reconditioned and tested by American Instrument Exchange
Includes a 90-day warranty
The Market Forge STM-EL is an electrically heated horizontal steam autoclave designed to provide substantial sterilization capacity in a comparatively compact package. Its 85-liter cylindrical chamber measures 16 inches in diameter and 26 inches deep, providing enough room for larger laboratory loads without requiring the footprint or facility infrastructure associated with many full-size institutional sterilizers.
The STM-EL belongs to Market Forge's long-running Sterilmatic line, a platform designed around relatively simple operation, durable construction, and high usable chamber capacity. Rather than relying on a complex programmable control system, the STM-EL gives operators direct control over sterilization temperature and cycle timing. That straightforward approach can be attractive to research, veterinary, academic, and industrial laboratories that primarily need dependable routine steam sterilization.
The adjustable-temperature STM-EL differs from fixed-temperature Sterilmatic models by allowing sterilization temperature to be set within approximately 230°F to 250°F (110°C to 121°C). This provides additional flexibility when processing different compatible laboratory materials.
Another important advantage is the availability of both fast and slow exhaust. Instruments, glassware, and other suitable solid loads can generally use faster exhaust to shorten turnaround time. Liquids require a more gradual pressure reduction because rapid depressurization can cause boiling, container breakage, or loss of contents. The STM-EL's slow-exhaust capability makes the sterilizer useful for laboratories that process both solid materials and compatible liquid loads.
The horizontal front-loading chamber also makes loading different from the vertical autoclaves commonly found in research laboratories. Trays can be loaded through the front door, which can be advantageous for facilities processing multiple containers or batches of laboratory supplies.
For laboratories replacing an older sterilizer, the durability and relative simplicity of the Sterilmatic platform can also be appealing. A refurbished STM-EL from American Instrument Exchange provides access to this proven design while reducing the capital expense associated with purchasing new sterilization equipment.
Sterilization of laboratory glassware
Processing of reusable laboratory instruments
Sterilization of compatible microbiological media
Processing of flasks and laboratory containers
Sterilization of compatible aqueous solutions
Microbiology laboratory workflows
Pharmaceutical and industrial quality control
Veterinary laboratory and research applications
Academic teaching and research laboratories
Food and beverage testing laboratories
Environmental testing facilities
General laboratory steam sterilization
The Market Forge STM-EL is particularly well suited for laboratories that need greater chamber capacity than a small benchtop autoclave can provide but do not require the complexity of a large institutional pre-vacuum sterilizer. Its combination of an 85-liter chamber and relatively compact footprint makes it useful for research facilities where sterilization volume is substantial but available laboratory space remains limited.
Microbiology and biotechnology laboratories may use the STM-EL for processing culture media, reusable glassware, instruments, and other compatible materials. Academic laboratories can benefit from its large chamber when several researchers, courses, or departments share sterilization equipment.
Veterinary clinics, animal research facilities, pharmaceutical quality-control departments, food-testing laboratories, and industrial processing facilities may also benefit from the Sterilmatic design. Its straightforward controls are particularly appropriate for facilities with established sterilization procedures that do not require extensive programmable cycle storage or sophisticated automation.
The included stainless steel stand is another practical advantage. Rather than consuming valuable laboratory bench space, the autoclave can be installed as a dedicated floor-standing workstation while maintaining a convenient front-loading height.
The Market Forge STM-EL uses saturated steam under pressure to process compatible laboratory materials. Operating temperature can be adjusted between approximately 110°C and 121°C, allowing laboratories to establish appropriate time and temperature combinations for their specific loads and validated procedures.
The sterilizer is capable of processing a broad range of heat- and moisture-resistant materials, including glassware, compatible instruments, flasks, laboratory utensils, and aqueous solutions. Its relatively large chamber also allows laboratories to consolidate materials into larger batches rather than running numerous smaller autoclave cycles.
The availability of separate fast- and slow-exhaust approaches is particularly important. Solid materials such as compatible instruments and glassware can generally tolerate relatively rapid pressure reduction, allowing the chamber to return to atmospheric pressure more quickly after sterilization.
Liquid loads require different handling. As chamber pressure decreases, liquids at elevated temperatures can boil rapidly. Controlled slow exhaust reduces the rate of pressure change and helps minimize boil-over and container breakage when appropriately configured liquid cycles and loading procedures are used.
As with any autoclave, cycle selection should be based on the materials, container size, load density, liquid volume, desired sterility assurance, and established laboratory procedures. Users are responsible for developing and validating cycles appropriate for their particular applications.
One of the strongest advantages of the Market Forge STM-EL is its chamber capacity. The cylindrical chamber measures 16 inches in diameter by 26 inches deep and provides approximately 5,220 cubic inches, or 85 liters, of usable volume.
Market Forge designed the chamber to accommodate multiple sterilizing pans. Depending on pan dimensions, the Sterilmatic can accommodate three 12 × 20 × 2.5-inch pans, two 12 × 20 × 4-inch pans, or one 12 × 20 × 6-inch pan. This flexibility allows laboratories to configure loads around different instruments, containers, glassware, or other compatible materials.
The chamber door opening measures approximately 13.5 inches wide by 11 inches high. Buyers should consider the door opening as well as the internal chamber dimensions when determining whether specific vessels or equipment will fit inside the autoclave.
For busy laboratories, larger chamber capacity can have a direct impact on workflow. Processing more material in each load may reduce the number of cycles required during the day, freeing laboratory personnel for other tasks and reducing sterilization bottlenecks.
Market Forge literature describes a preheat time of approximately 10 minutes from a cold start and approximately four minutes from a warm condition, although actual performance depends on operating conditions and equipment configuration. The ability to keep the sterilizer ready for recurring loads can make the STM-EL particularly useful in facilities with consistent daily sterilization demand.
The Market Forge STM-EL is a strong choice for laboratories that prioritize chamber capacity, durability, straightforward controls, and the ability to process both solid and compatible liquid loads. Its 85-liter chamber is substantially larger than many compact benchtop sterilizers, making it particularly useful when smaller autoclaves would require excessive numbers of cycles.
The horizontal chamber is another consideration. Front loading can simplify handling of trays and containers compared with lifting materials vertically into a deep top-loading autoclave. Laboratories processing multiple trays or relatively heavy loads may find this configuration more convenient.
The STM-EL also offers adjustable temperature control, distinguishing it from the fixed-temperature STM-E. Laboratories that need some flexibility in sterilization temperature may therefore prefer the STM-EL.
On the other hand, laboratories requiring sophisticated programmable cycles, active pre-vacuum air removal, integrated drying, electronic cycle records, or highly automated validation functions may be better served by a newer microprocessor-controlled autoclave. The Sterilmatic's strength lies in its relatively simple, durable design rather than extensive automation.
Electrical service is an especially important consideration. The STM-EL is a high-power sterilizer and was manufactured in multiple electrical configurations. Laboratories should verify the data plate of the individual unit and confirm that their facility can provide the required voltage, phase, amperage, and dedicated electrical service before purchase.
American Instrument Exchange can help customers compare the STM-EL with other used and refurbished laboratory autoclaves, as well as new Tuttnauer autoclaves, based on chamber size, load type, electrical requirements, workflow, available space, and budget.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Market Forge |
| Model | STM-EL |
| Product Family | Sterilmatic |
| Sterilizer Type | Horizontal electric steam-pressure autoclave |
| Chamber Capacity | 85 L / approximately 22 gal |
| Chamber Dimensions | 16 in diameter × 26 in deep (406 × 660 mm) |
| Door Opening | Approximately 13.5 in W × 11 in H (343 × 279 mm) |
| Exterior Dimensions | Approximately 18.7 in W × 30–31 in D × 27.6 in H (approximately 475 × 762–787 × 702 mm), excluding stand |
| Chamber Construction | ASME-constructed welded aluminum pressure vessel |
| Exterior Construction | Polished stainless steel |
| Sterilization Temperature Range | Approximately 230°F to 250°F (110°C to 121°C) |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | Approximately 15 psi during normal sterilization operation |
| Timer Range | Approximately 1–60 minutes |
| Exhaust Modes | Fast exhaust for suitable solid loads; slow exhaust for liquids |
| Typical Preheat Time | Approximately 10 minutes cold / 4 minutes warm |
| Pan Capacity | Up to three 12 × 20 × 2.5 in pans, two 12 × 20 × 4 in pans, or one 12 × 20 × 6 in pan |
| Electrical Requirements | Multiple 208/240 V, single- and three-phase configurations manufactured; verify individual unit |
| Rated Power | Approximately 9.3–12.4 kW depending on electrical configuration |
| Drain Connection | 1/2 in NPT or 3/8 in OD copper |
| Steam Exhaust | 5/8 in connection; exhaust must be appropriately vented |
| Water Requirements | User-filled reservoir; water quality requirements apply |
| Reservoir Capacity | Approximately 4 gal / 15 L |
| Stand | Stainless steel stand included with this unit |
| Installation Type | Floor-standing when mounted on included stand |
| Condition | Used / reconditioned |
| Warranty | 90 days |
Specifications have been compiled from Market Forge technical literature and information for the individual American Instrument Exchange unit. Market Forge produced the STM-EL in multiple electrical configurations, and published exterior dimensions vary slightly depending on documentation and measurement points. Customers should confirm the data plate, electrical configuration, exact dimensions, included trays and accessories, and utility requirements of the available unit before purchase.
The Market Forge STM-EL requires more facility planning than a small plug-in benchtop autoclave. Depending on configuration, Sterilmatic units were manufactured for 208 V or 240 V service and in both single- and three-phase versions. Rated power can range from approximately 9.3 to 12.4 kW, so a dedicated electrical circuit sized for the individual autoclave is required.
The exact electrical requirements should always be determined from the data plate on the unit offered by American Instrument Exchange rather than assumed from general STM-EL specifications.
The sterilizer also incorporates drainage and steam exhaust connections. Market Forge specifies a drain connection and requires exhaust steam to be safely vented to atmosphere or handled using an appropriate exhaust condenser where direct exterior venting is not practical. Installation should therefore be planned around the laboratory's available drainage and exhaust arrangement.
Water quality also matters. Market Forge publishes guidelines for total dissolved solids, hardness, chlorine, silica, chlorides, chloramine, and pH. Appropriate water helps reduce scale accumulation and supports reliable operation of the heating system and pressure vessel.
This unit includes a stainless steel stand, which provides a dedicated support structure and places the front-loading chamber at a practical working height. Laboratories should confirm overall installed height, doorway clearance, service access, ventilation, and available floor space before delivery.
The Market Forge Sterilmatic has a relatively straightforward design and substantial chamber capacity, making a properly reconditioned STM-EL an attractive option for laboratories that need dependable steam sterilization without the cost of a new high-capacity autoclave.
American Instrument Exchange reconditions, inspects, and tests used laboratory equipment before shipment. Autoclave testing includes evaluation of heating, temperature control, pressure-related functions, timers, electrical components, safety systems, and overall operation as applicable to the individual model. Customers with specific testing requirements can discuss those needs with American Instrument Exchange before shipment.
This particular STM-EL also includes its stainless steel stand, eliminating the need for the customer to source a separate support structure and creating a ready-to-install floor-standing configuration.
American Instrument Exchange maintains an inventory of used and refurbished autoclaves and sterilizers as well as new Tuttnauer autoclaves. Laboratories outfitting or expanding a facility can also source complementary equipment including biosafety cabinets, CO₂ incubators, laboratory refrigerators, freezers, centrifuges, ovens, glassware washers, and other essential laboratory equipment.
For laboratories facing an unexpected autoclave failure, availability can be particularly important. An in-stock refurbished sterilizer may allow a facility to restore critical processing capacity substantially faster than waiting for newly manufactured equipment.
The STM-EL has an approximately 85-liter, or 22-gallon, sterilization chamber. The cylindrical chamber measures 16 inches in diameter by 26 inches deep.
The STM-E is the fixed-temperature version of the Sterilmatic, while the STM-EL provides adjustable temperature control. The STM-EL can be set within approximately 230°F to 250°F (110°C to 121°C), providing additional flexibility for different laboratory loads.
Yes. The STM-EL incorporates slow exhaust for compatible liquid loads. Slow depressurization is important when processing liquids because rapid pressure reduction can cause vigorous boiling, loss of contents, or container breakage. Appropriate liquid-cycle procedures and validated load configurations should always be used.
Yes. Compatible heat- and moisture-resistant glassware and instruments are common applications for the Sterilmatic. Fast exhaust can be used for suitable solid loads when permitted by the laboratory's established procedure.
The autoclave itself is approximately 18.7 inches wide × 30–31 inches deep × 27.6 inches high, depending on the reference and measurement points. This particular unit also includes a stainless steel stand, so customers should confirm the total installed dimensions before delivery.
The door opening is approximately 13.5 inches wide by 11 inches high. This measurement can be particularly important when determining whether large flasks, trays, containers, or other equipment will fit into the chamber.
Market Forge publishes specific feed-water quality requirements rather than simply specifying distilled water. Appropriate water chemistry is important for minimizing scale and maintaining the sterilizer. Users should follow the manufacturer's current water-quality guidance rather than assuming that any available water source is suitable.
The STM-EL was manufactured in multiple 208 V and 240 V configurations, including single- and three-phase versions. Because amperage and power requirements vary considerably, customers should confirm the data plate of the specific unit offered by American Instrument Exchange before purchase.
The Sterilmatic incorporates a drain and steam exhaust connection. Market Forge specifies that exhaust be appropriately vented, with an exhaust condenser available for installations where direct atmospheric venting is impractical. Customers should review their facility utilities before installation.
No. The Sterilmatic is a steam-pressure sterilizer and should not be considered equivalent to an active pre-vacuum autoclave. Laboratories requiring validated pre-vacuum cycles for porous, heavily wrapped, or other specialized loads should select equipment designed for those applications.
Yes. The American Instrument Exchange unit includes a stainless steel stand, providing a convenient floor-standing installation and preserving laboratory bench space.
Yes. Unless otherwise specified, this reconditioned Market Forge STM-EL includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Yes. In addition to used and refurbished Market Forge and other laboratory autoclaves, American Instrument Exchange offers new Tuttnauer autoclaves for laboratories seeking current-generation equipment and factory warranty coverage.
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Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty.
Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality.
We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
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