What is the coolest place in a steam sterilizer?

The coolest place in a steam sterilizer is indeed found within the thermostatic trap. This component is designed to maintain a consistent temperature and pressure throughout the sterilization process. As steam enters the sterilizer, it reaches various parts of the chamber. However, due to the principles of heat transfer and steam dynamics, the thermostatic trap is where steam may condense and collect, leading to a cooler environment compared to other areas where steam is in active circulation.

In contrast, the steam chamber typically reaches higher temperatures due to direct contact with steam, making it an unlikely candidate for the coolest location. The heating element generates heat to create steam, so it is naturally one of the warmer areas. The water reservoir contains water that, while it may not be at the same superheated temperature as the steam, is still generally warmer than the conditions in the thermostatic trap, which helps ensure that the steam being circulated is effective at maintaining sterilization.