What machine is commonly used for steam sterilization?

The autoclave is the machine commonly used for steam sterilization due to its ability to effectively kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. It operates by using high pressure and steam at elevated temperatures, typically around 121 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher, for a specified duration. This combination of heat and pressure creates an environment that is conducive to thorough sterilization, making it highly effective in medical and laboratory settings.

Other machines mentioned, like the disinfector and dry heat sterilizer, serve different purposes. A disinfector may use chemicals or lower temperatures to reduce microbial load but does not achieve the same level of sterility as an autoclave. A dry heat sterilizer uses hot air to sterilize instruments but is less effective against moisture-sensitive items compared to steam sterilization methods. An incubator, on the other hand, is primarily used for cultivating and maintaining microbiological cultures under controlled temperature and humidity, rather than for sterilization purposes. Thus, the autoclave stands out as the preferred choice for steam sterilization.