MAKHACHKALA, March 18 – RIA Dagestan. Scientists from Dagestan State Technical University have been granted a patent for a utility model designed to modify sterilization procedures for canned goods at small-scale production facilities and in household settings. The development consists of a universal autoclave basket that enables jar sterilization without the need to generate counterpressure within the apparatus.
Standard sterilization practices typically require sealed autoclaves where counterpressure is maintained using compressed air to prevent jar damage during heating—a process that relies on specialized equipment. DSTU team developed an alternative approach: a basket design that mechanically secures jar lids through applied pressure.
The device features a multi-tiered structure composed of several flat platforms mounted on guide rods. Jars are arranged in layers, and the assembly is secured from above using a handle mechanism.
Key design elements include:
* Adjustable shelf height to accommodate containers of various volumes, including three-liter jars;
* Rubber-coated shelves intended to reduce slippage and minimize breakage risk;
* A spring-assisted lifting mechanism that raises shelves upon release of the fastening, facilitating access to processed jars;
* A handling ring designed to support safe lowering into and retrieval from heated water.
This design enables sterilization to be conducted in open tanks with hot water rather than in sealed autoclave systems. The developers indicate that this approach may reduce thermal energy and water consumption by more than 40% while simplifying the sterilization process.
The development has been registered under Russian Federation Patents No. 183292 and No. 241746. The university has indicated that the solution is being offered for consideration by industry stakeholders seeking alternatives for canning production.