An autoclave is a machine used to carry out industrial and scientific processes requiring elevated temperature and pressure in relation to ambient pressure and/or temperature. Autoclaves are used for sterilization before surgical procedures and in the chemical industry to cure coatings and vulcanize rubber, as well as for hydrothermal synthesis. Autoclaves are also known as steam sterilizers and are used in healthcare, microbiology, veterinary science, and other industries to sterilize medical devices, lab equipment, and other objects. Autoclaving is the most effective method of sterilizing lab equipment, especially for liquid handling products, to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. The autoclaving process takes advantage of the phenomenon that the boiling point of water (or steam) increases when it is under high pressure. Autoclaves generate high heat and pressure to ensure that the best possible physical properties are repeatable. The three critical factors to ensure successful steam sterilization in an autoclave are time, temperature, and steam quality. Autoclaves are commonly used in healthcare settings to sterilize medical devices, and the items to be sterilized are placed inside a pressure vessel, commonly referred to as the chamber.