Description:

The original Ritter M9 combines a reliable atmospheric-steam design with one-button automation. Once the pivoting door seals, microprocessor cycles vent-and-pulse steam to the 9 in × 15 in chamber, sterilising wrapped packs at 134 °C and then drying them with vacuum-assisted evaporation. A three-channel temperature sensor halts the 27.1 psi cycle if excursions exceed ±1 °C, and the 40 psi ASME safety valve provides secondary protection. Users load two large (7 5⁄16 × 12 in) or two small trays and press “Start”; an optional dot-matrix printer logs time, temperature and pressure for each run. The 1.1-gal reservoir supports 7–8 cycles before refill, and a front drain simplifies weekly water changes. Physical dimensions—20.4 × 15.3 × 15.8 in with plug—fit standard 18 in countertops, while a 1 425 W heater (115 V) brings cold water to operating pressure in under nine minutes.

Economic Advantage:

Decades of field use make the M9 a parts-rich platform; independent offices can source gaskets and valves locally instead of shipping units back to the factory. Water consumption of 120–140 mL per cycle and a 5 000 BTU h⁻¹ heat profile keep utility costs low, and its 73-lb mass needs no floor stand—saving both space and HVAC load relative to hospital sterilizers.