General Care: All stainless-steel products from Fortec International Inc. are corrosion resistant. However, they can become discolored, stained, or corroded if exposed to higher-than-recommended concentrations of certain chemicals. To ensure longevity and performance, avoid using the following chemicals with stainless steel products:

  • Aluminum Chloride
  • Barium Chloride
  • Bichloride of Mercury
  • Calcium Chloride
  • Carbolic Acid
  • Chlorinated Lime
  • Citric Acid
  • Ferrous Chloride
  • Lysol
  • Mercuric Chloride
  • Mercury Salts
  • Phenol
  • Potassium Permanganate
  • Potassium Thiocyanate
  • Sodium Hypochlorite
  • Stannous Chloride

Never Use the Following Chemicals on Stainless Steel:

  • Aqua Regia
  • Ferric Chloride
  • Hydrochloric Acid
  • Iodine
  • Sulfuric Acid

Sterilization Instructions for Stainless Steel Products:

Soaking and Prewash:

  • Manual Prewash: Clean instruments in a designated sink. Soak them for ten minutes in a surgical pre-soak solution to remove blood and debris. Use a nylon brush to assist in removing foreign substances. Immerse items in the cleaning solution, scrub below the water's surface, then rinse and dry.
    • Note: Avoid using abrasive tools like wire brushes or steel wool for cleaning.
  • Mechanical Prewash: Use a thermal washer disinfector or ultrasonic bath according to the manufacturer’s instructions for prewashing tools before sterilization.

Sterilization:

  • After drying and prewashing, package items in sterilization bags or cassettes. Sterilize using steam, heat, or chemical methods according to the manufacturer's guidelines and in a government-approved heat sterilization unit.

Storage:

  • Store sterilized items in their intact packaging in a dry, secure area. If the packaging becomes wet, torn, or damaged, re-sterilize the items before use.

Hinged Instruments:

  • Sterilize hinged instruments in the open position. After each sterilization, lubricate all hinged products with a silicone-based lubricant. This prevents rust, stiffness, and corrosion, ensuring smooth operation and extending the product's lifespan.