This page covers the requirements for use of hydrothermal autoclave/pressure reaction vessels in the School of Chemistry.
Please refer to the UNSW documents below for guidance on the use of pressure reaction vessels:
The following documentation must be in place before commencing work with hydrothermal autoclaves:
Vessel Compliance
Vessels must be either new from a recognised supplier that provides certification documents (e.g. Parr), or have been certified by an independent service.
Certification documents must be kept with required documentation and provided upon request.
Equipment Compliance
Ovens must be temperature-limited to not exceed the specifications of the vessel.
A blast shield must be available for use as an additional control during the reactions.
Refer to the UNSW documents linked above for more information.
Lockable Storage
Lockable storage must be available to prevent unauthorised access or use.
Refer to the UNSW documents linked above for more information.
Vessel Registration
Vessels must be registered for use with the School of Chemistry prior to use.
Contact chemistryoperations@unsw.edu.au to initiate registration of a pressure reaction vessel.
Vessel Log Book
A usage log book must be in place to record key parameters for every use for each vessel (date, person, temperature, pressure, etc.).
It is recommended that each vessel have a separate log book to simplify tallying of usage cycles.
Vessel Inspection Checklists
See the UNSW 'Guide for use...' document linked above for the checklist/inspection guide.
Vessels must be inspected after each use and the condition recorded.
Risk Management Forms/Safe Work Procedures
RMFs/SWPs must be prepared by groups to cover their use of the pressure vessels.
Refer to the example UNSW documents linked above.
Pre-start Checklist
See the UNSW 'Guide for use...' document linked above for the checklist which must be completed with each user prior to commencing work.
Training Records
Users must be trained (with appropriate documentation of training) prior to commencing work.