10 Easy Steps to Longer Bearing Life
CORRECT LUBRICATION AND STERILIZATION PROCEDURES TOGETHER WITH PROPER PSI SETTINGS ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS FOR MAXIMIZING BEAR ING LONGEVITY.*

1 Prepare and clean handpiece. Be certain to re move any visible debris; you may use a soft bristle brush under warm running water. If you choose to use soap or de ter gent, thoroughly rinse and dry. NOTE: Some handpieces such as Star 430SWL Vortex models cannot be exposed to any soaps or disinfectants. DO NOT soak or place the handpiece in an ultrasonic cleaner, unless the manufacturer specifically recommends to do so.

2 Lubricate the handpiece with the recommended manufacturer’s lubricant and nozzle (if applicable), typically we suggest applying a 2–3 second burst of lube or 3–4 drops if using a drop-type lubricant, such as LubriCleanse. NOTE: Some handpieces such as STAR 430SWL Vortex models do not require lubrication.

3 Insert and secure a bur in the chuck. Re-attach hand piece to tubing or use a handpiece flush system.

4 Run handpiece at 50% speed for approximately 20–25 seconds—this will expel the excess lubricant AND carry away any loose dirt and debris. PLEASE NOTE: If after this step you still see discoloured lubricant being discharged from the handpiece head, repeat steps 2–4. By maintaining a clean turbine, you will ensure maximum bearing longevity. Failure to do so will result in excess debris accumulating within the head area, which will bake on the bearings during each heat sterilization cycle.

5 Remove bur from chuck. Clean fibre optics with a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Bag and autoclave handpiece per manufacturer’s instructions. NOTE: For better drying, place bag in the sterilizer tray with the paper side of the bag facing up.

Where to lubricate

6 Once the sterilization cycle is complete and the handpiece has cooled down, if post-sterilization lubriction is required (N/A with Kavo Spray, LubriCleanse or STAR Vortex handpieces), all others re-lubricate 1–2 seconds with spray type lube or apply 1–2 drops of drop-type lubricant. NOTE: To avoid cross-contamination, be sure to use a separate can or bottle of lube.

7 Flush the air and water lines of dental unit for 20 seconds, prior to connecting the hand piece to the tubing.

8 Re-insert bur, re-attach handpiece to tubing or handpiece flush system. Run handpiece at 50% speed for 15–20 seconds.

9 If any lubricant remains on the handpiece, gently wipe the body with a clean gauze pad.

10 That‘s all there is to maintaining your handpieces! Your sterilized handpiece is now ready for use or storage.

additional notes

  • NEVER cheat your burs. ALWAYS fully insert a bur into the chuck and secure properly. If you attempt to extend it from the chuck the bur may dislodge while in use, causing injury to you and your patient. It will also contribute to premature bearing and chuck failure and may void your warranty.
  • NEVER use any type of tool to remove a stuck bur from a chuck. Doing so can cause irreversible push button chuck damage. Call Bowen instead!
  • NEVER use a hot or warm handpiece directly from the sterilizer, doing so will greatly reduce turbine longevity. Never place hot handpieces under cold water to rapid cool, allow for an adequate cool down period. For rotational purposes, a minimum of four handpieces are recommended per op.
  • ATTENTION Midwest handpiece users! Remember to close the lever on all “power lever” handpieces prior to autoclaving. Always remove the bur from the power lever chuck prior to autoclaving.

*Due to the high number of variables involved with “in-house” maintenance, please understand the above is in no way an expressed or implied guarantee for bearing longevity.

DCI Helpful Hints

  • Ultrasonic cleaning is not recommended, as the chemicals used may damage the surface finishes.
  • All DCI autoclavable vacuum valves can be sterilized by means of Steam Autoclave, Dry Heat, Ethylene Oxide, Gas or Chemical Vapor Process. Never exceed 138°C (280°F).
  • DO NOT use Sodium Hypochlorite or any bleaching agents to clean these instruments, as they will cause permanent damage.
  • Some disinfectants that will not adversely affect the instrument are: Birex SE, Sporicidin, Coldspor, Procide Spray, Sterall Spray, Asepti-IDC, Biocide, Pomedyne, Iodo-Five, Wecodyne and Cavicide.
  • Periodically, it will be necessary to remove the valve spool to thoroughly clean and lubricate the internal components. You should do this when the operation of the valve becomes stiff or sticky.