Yamato Scientific SM511 Vertical Steam Sterilizer
Laboratories that routinely process glassware, instruments, culture media, reusable containers, and other steam-compatible materials need sterilization equipment that combines dependable performance with efficient use of laboratory space. The refurbished Yamato Scientific SM511 Vertical Steam Sterilizer from American Instrument Exchange provides a 47-liter chamber, automatic high-pressure steam sterilization, integrated drying, and a compact vertical configuration designed for research, biotechnology, academic, pharmaceutical, and industrial laboratory environments.
The SM511 offers a sterilization temperature range from approximately 105°C to 128°C and an adjustable drying temperature range from 150°C to 180°C. Its automatic operating sequence, microprocessor-based PID temperature control, digital display, self-diagnostic functions, and integrated exhaust condensation system provide a practical combination of automation and straightforward daily operation.
This used Yamato Scientific SM511 has been reconditioned, inspected, and tested by American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.
Yamato SM511 Key Features
-
47-liter vertical high-pressure steam sterilizer
-
Automatic sterilization and drying operation
-
Sterilization temperature range from 105°C to 128°C
-
Adjustable drying temperature from 150°C to 180°C
-
Stainless steel sterilization chamber
-
Microprocessor-controlled PID temperature regulation
-
Digital LED temperature display
-
Extended programmable timer capability
-
Self-diagnostic safety functions
-
Safety valve and electric leakage breaker
-
Front-mounted drain bottle level indicator
-
Integrated condensation collector for hot exhaust steam
-
Two stainless steel mesh baskets
-
Compact vertical footprint for efficient laboratory installation
-
Reconditioned, inspected, and tested by American Instrument Exchange
-
Includes a 90-day warranty
Overview
The Yamato Scientific SM511 is a vertical laboratory steam sterilizer designed to combine useful chamber capacity with automated operation and integrated drying. Its cylindrical 47-liter chamber measures approximately 300 mm in diameter by 655 mm high, providing substantial vertical space for bottles, laboratory glassware, baskets, reusable instruments, and other compatible materials while occupying a relatively small amount of floor space.
The SM511 is part of Yamato's SM Series of automatic high-pressure steam sterilizers. Rather than requiring the operator to manage each stage manually, the system controls sterilization through a microprocessor-based PID temperature controller and provides an integrated drying function after steam processing. This makes the SM511 especially useful for laboratories that want a relatively straightforward vertical sterilizer but still benefit from automated temperature control and post-cycle drying.
One of the distinguishing features of the SM511 is its drying capability. After steam sterilization, the system can operate at drying temperatures between approximately 150°C and 180°C. This can reduce residual moisture on compatible loads and help prepare certain materials for reuse more quickly than a sterilizer that ends the cycle immediately after depressurization.
The sterilization chamber is designed with a smooth interior and minimal internal protrusions, making baskets and materials easier to insert and remove. Two stainless steel mesh baskets are typically used within the chamber, allowing laboratories to organize loads vertically and make better use of the available volume.
The SM511 also incorporates a condensation collection system designed to cool or collect high-temperature exhaust steam during operation. This helps make the system more practical for laboratory environments where direct discharge of hot steam would otherwise complicate installation.
For laboratories replacing an aging vertical autoclave or expanding sterilization capacity, a professionally refurbished SM511 can provide useful automation and substantial chamber capacity without the acquisition cost of purchasing a new high-capacity system.
Yamato SM511 Common Applications
-
Sterilization of laboratory glassware
-
Processing of reusable laboratory instruments
-
Sterilization of compatible microbiological media
-
Processing of flasks and culture vessels
-
Biotechnology research workflows
-
Pharmaceutical quality-control applications
-
Academic teaching and research laboratories
-
Environmental and industrial testing
-
Food and beverage laboratory applications
-
Veterinary and animal research support
-
General microbiology laboratory sterilization
-
Drying of compatible loads following steam sterilization
Yamato SM511 Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Yamato SM511 is particularly well suited for laboratories that need more processing capacity than a small tabletop autoclave can provide but want to preserve valuable bench space. Its tall vertical chamber allows the unit to provide approximately 47 liters of capacity within a footprint measuring only about 17 inches wide by 21 inches deep.
Microbiology and biotechnology laboratories may use the SM511 for sterilizing reusable glassware, culture vessels, instruments, and compatible media containers. Academic research laboratories can benefit from the combination of useful chamber capacity and relatively straightforward controls, particularly when several researchers or teaching groups share sterilization equipment.
Pharmaceutical quality-control departments, environmental testing laboratories, food and beverage facilities, veterinary laboratories, and industrial research groups may also find the SM511 appropriate for routine steam-processing requirements.
The integrated drying function can be especially useful in laboratories that routinely process glassware or compatible solid materials and want to reduce residual moisture after sterilization. Facilities that primarily sterilize liquid media may place less emphasis on drying but can still benefit from the SM511's chamber capacity and automatic temperature control.
Because Yamato specifies the SM Series for laboratory use, the SM511 should be evaluated as a scientific sterilizer rather than a medical sterilizer intended for patient-care applications.
Sterilization and Drying Capabilities
The Yamato SM511 uses high-pressure saturated steam to process heat- and moisture-resistant laboratory materials. Sterilization temperature can be adjusted between approximately 105°C and 128°C, allowing laboratories to establish operating conditions appropriate for their specific load types and procedures.
Compatible loads may include laboratory glassware, metal instruments, reusable utensils, containers, and other materials capable of tolerating moist heat. Depending on the procedure, certain media and liquid loads may also be processed when appropriate containers, loading practices, temperatures, and exhaust procedures are used.
The SM511 incorporates a separate drying stage that can operate between approximately 150°C and 180°C. Drying temperature can be adjusted based on the material and quantity of the load, providing greater flexibility than systems with a fixed post-cycle drying condition.
This integrated drying capability can be particularly useful when processing compatible solid loads. Reducing residual moisture may help laboratories return glassware or instruments to service more quickly and can simplify handling after a sterilization cycle.
Liquid loads require different consideration. High drying temperatures are generally not appropriate for containers of liquid media or solutions, so the selected process should reflect the material being sterilized. Laboratories remain responsible for developing and validating procedures suitable for the specific load, container type, volume, and intended use.
Yamato SM511 Chamber Capacity and Laboratory Workflow
The Yamato SM511 provides approximately 47 liters of internal capacity within a cylindrical chamber measuring approximately 300 mm in diameter by 655 mm high, or roughly 11.8 inches in diameter by 25.8 inches high.
This tall chamber geometry can be particularly useful for laboratories processing bottles, flasks, deep baskets, culture vessels, and other vertically oriented loads. The chamber can accommodate two stainless steel mesh baskets measuring approximately 262 mm in diameter by 315 mm high, allowing materials to be divided between upper and lower basket levels.
When evaluating an autoclave, laboratories should consider chamber dimensions rather than relying only on nominal volume. A 47-liter vertical chamber may accommodate tall vessels particularly well, while a horizontal chamber of similar volume may be preferable for wide trays or instruments.
For laboratories with moderate-to-high daily sterilization demand, the SM511's automatic operation can also improve workflow. Once a suitable temperature, time, and operating mode have been selected, the sterilizer manages the major processing stages without requiring continuous operator adjustment.
The programmable timer provides substantial flexibility, ranging from minute-based settings for ordinary cycles to very long operating periods where needed. This can support unusual laboratory procedures that require extended heating or drying beyond a conventional short sterilization cycle.
The front-mounted drain bottle indicator also helps operators monitor condensate accumulation without opening equipment panels, while the accessible drain valve simplifies routine water handling and maintenance.
Choosing the Right Laboratory Autoclave
The Yamato SM511 is a strong choice for laboratories seeking a relatively large vertical chamber, automatic steam sterilization, and integrated drying in a compact floor-standing design.
Vertical loading makes particularly efficient use of floor space. Laboratories that frequently process tall bottles, flasks, culture vessels, or stacked baskets may find the SM511's chamber geometry more convenient than a shallow horizontal tabletop unit. At the same time, users should consider the ergonomics of lifting materials into and out of a top-loading chamber.
The 47-liter capacity positions the SM511 between smaller tabletop sterilizers and substantially larger institutional autoclaves. It can provide enough capacity for many research laboratories without requiring the size, steam infrastructure, or utility demands of a large pass-through sterilizer.
The drying function is another important factor. Laboratories that primarily process compatible solid materials may benefit significantly from the ability to dry loads after steam sterilization. Facilities focused almost entirely on liquid media may place less value on this feature and should instead prioritize chamber geometry, cooling behavior, and liquid-processing requirements.
The SM511 is not intended to replace an active pre-vacuum autoclave when validated vacuum-assisted processing of complex porous or heavily wrapped loads is required. Laboratories with specialized sterilization requirements should select equipment designed specifically for those applications.
American Instrument Exchange can help customers compare the Yamato SM511 with other refurbished vertical autoclaves, benchtop sterilizers, and new Tuttnauer autoclaves based on chamber capacity, load type, drying requirements, electrical service, available space, and budget.
Yamato SM511 Key Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Yamato Scientific |
| Model |
SM511 |
| Product Series |
SM Series |
| Sterilizer Type |
Automatic vertical high-pressure steam sterilizer with dryer |
| Chamber Capacity |
47 L |
| Chamber Dimensions |
300 mm diameter × 655 mm H (11.8 in diameter × 25.8 in H) |
| Exterior Dimensions |
440 mm W × 530 mm D × 1,088 mm H (17.3 × 20.9 × 42.8 in) |
| Chamber Material |
Stainless steel |
| Sterilization Temperature Range |
105°C to 128°C |
| Drying Temperature Range |
150°C to 180°C |
| Maximum Pressure Capacity |
0.2 MPa, approximately 29 psi |
| Sterilization Heater |
Approximately 2.0 kW |
| Drying Heater |
Approximately 1.5 kW |
| Temperature Control |
Microprocessor-based PID control |
| Temperature Display |
Digital green LED display |
| Timer Range |
1 minute to 99 hr 59 min; extended settings up to 999 hr |
| Safety Features |
Self-diagnostic functions, safety valve, electric leakage breaker, drain bottle switch |
| Included Basket Capacity |
Two stainless steel mesh baskets |
| Basket Dimensions |
Approximately 262 mm diameter × 315 mm H each |
| Reservoir / Drain Bottle Capacity |
Approximately 3 L |
| Condensation Management |
Condensation collection system for exhaust steam |
| Electrical Requirements |
220 V, 50/60 Hz, 9.5 A |
| Power Connection |
Round terminal / hardwired-style connection depending on configuration |
| Plumbing Requirements |
No external building steam supply required; verify water, drainage, and exhaust requirements |
| Weight |
Approximately 85 kg (187 lb) |
| Installation Type |
Floor-standing vertical |
| Intended Use |
Laboratory use |
| Condition |
Used / reconditioned |
| Warranty |
90 days |
Specifications have been compiled from Yamato Scientific technical literature and information for the individual American Instrument Exchange unit. Customers should confirm the individual equipment data plate, included baskets and accessories, electrical configuration, dimensions, and utility requirements before purchase.
Installation and Utility Requirements
The Yamato SM511 requires more planning than a small plug-in tabletop sterilizer because of its 220 V electrical requirement and approximately 2.0 kW sterilization heater. The available unit is rated for 220 V, 50/60 Hz, approximately 9.5 A operation, and the facility should provide electrical service appropriate for the equipment data plate and applicable electrical codes.
The SM511 generates steam internally and does not require connection to a building steam supply. Laboratories should nevertheless review filling, drainage, exhaust, and condensation-handling requirements before installation.
Yamato incorporates a condensation collection system to help manage hot exhaust steam. The front-mounted drain bottle allows operators to monitor accumulated water visually, and the front drain valve provides convenient access during routine maintenance.
The autoclave should be installed on a stable, level floor with adequate ventilation and service clearance. Because it is top loading, sufficient overhead clearance must be provided to fully open the lid and safely lift baskets and containers from the chamber.
The approximately 187-pound empty weight should also be considered during delivery and placement. Customers should verify doorway dimensions, elevator capacity where applicable, floor loading, and the final path from the receiving area to the laboratory.
Routine chamber cleaning, water-quality control, inspection of seals and safety devices, drainage maintenance, and preventive servicing can help support reliable long-term operation.
Why Buy a Refurbished Yamato SM511 from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Yamato SM511 can provide laboratories with substantial sterilization capacity and integrated drying while reducing capital costs compared with purchasing a new high-capacity vertical autoclave.
American Instrument Exchange reconditions, inspects, and tests used laboratory autoclaves before shipment. Testing may include heating, chamber temperature, pressure-related functions, controls, timers, drying operation, safety systems, drainage, displays, and other operating functions applicable to the individual sterilizer.
For laboratories facing an unexpected autoclave failure, availability may also be an important consideration. Replacing a failed sterilizer quickly can help prevent delays in media preparation, glassware processing, instrument availability, and routine research operations. An in-stock refurbished system may provide a faster route back to normal operation than waiting for newly manufactured equipment.
American Instrument Exchange also offers both refurbished laboratory autoclaves and new Tuttnauer systems, allowing customers to compare equipment based on chamber capacity, automation, drying, utility requirements, warranty preferences, budget, and delivery timeline.
In addition to sterilization equipment, American Instrument Exchange supplies complementary laboratory equipment including biosafety cabinets, CO₂ incubators, centrifuges, laboratory refrigerators, freezers, ovens, glassware washers, and other equipment used in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, clinical, and industrial facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the chamber capacity of the Yamato SM511?
The Yamato SM511 has a nominal chamber capacity of approximately 47 liters.
What are the chamber dimensions of the SM511?
The cylindrical chamber measures approximately 300 mm in diameter by 655 mm high, or about 11.8 inches in diameter by 25.8 inches high.
What are the exterior dimensions of the Yamato SM511?
The unit measures approximately 440 mm wide × 530 mm deep × 1,088 mm high, or about 17.3 × 20.9 × 42.8 inches. Published dimensions do not include certain protruding components.
What sterilization temperature range does the SM511 provide?
The SM511 operates from approximately 105°C to 128°C during steam sterilization.
Does the Yamato SM511 have a drying cycle?
Yes. The SM511 incorporates an adjustable drying function operating from approximately 150°C to 180°C, allowing compatible solid loads to be dried following steam sterilization.
Can the Yamato SM511 sterilize liquids and culture media?
The SM511 can be used with compatible materials and liquid loads when appropriate containers, loading methods, temperatures, exhaust procedures, and validated laboratory protocols are followed. Drying settings should not be applied indiscriminately to liquid loads.
How many baskets fit inside the SM511?
The standard configuration includes two stainless steel mesh baskets measuring approximately 262 mm in diameter by 315 mm high.
Does the Yamato SM511 require an external steam supply?
No. The SM511 generates steam internally using its electric heating system and does not require a central building steam connection.
What electrical service does the Yamato SM511 require?
The SM511 configuration listed by American Instrument Exchange requires approximately 220 V, 50/60 Hz, 9.5 A service. Customers should verify the individual equipment data plate before installation.
What is the maximum pressure capacity of the Yamato SM511?
Yamato lists a maximum pressure capacity of approximately 0.2 MPa, equivalent to roughly 29 psi.
Is the Yamato SM511 a pre-vacuum autoclave?
No. The SM511 is an automatic high-pressure steam sterilizer and should not be assumed to provide active pre-vacuum processing. Laboratories requiring validated vacuum-assisted sterilization should select equipment designed specifically for that application.
Is the Yamato SM511 intended for medical sterilization?
Yamato specifies the SM Series for laboratory use rather than medical use. Facilities should select equipment appropriate for their intended regulatory and clinical application.
How much does the Yamato SM511 weigh?
The SM511 weighs approximately 85 kg, or about 187 pounds.
Does this refurbished Yamato SM511 include a warranty?
Unless otherwise specified, this reconditioned SM511 includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Does American Instrument Exchange offer other vertical autoclaves?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished vertical autoclaves as well as benchtop and other laboratory sterilizers, along with new Tuttnauer autoclaves for facilities seeking current-generation equipment.
