An autoclave is a device to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure steam at 121° C or more. It was invented by Charles Chamberland in 1879, although a precursor known as the steam digester was created by Denis Papin in 1679. Types There are two main types of Autoclaves: Stove top autoclaves actually resemble a culinary pressure cooker. Each unit comes complete with a bolt-down lid and a pressure gauge on the outside. These units require an outside heat sourc… (More on Autoclave)