Expanded capacity autoclave

A method of loading an autoclave, the method comprising:

• loading a first work piece into an autoclave between first and second cart rails extending lengthwise in the autoclave;
• loading a second work piece onto a rolling cart, the rolling cart comprising;
• an elevated platform;
• a frame supporting the elevated platform;
• and
• a plurality of wheels connected to the frame;
• moving the rolling cart with the second work piece onto the first and second cart rails, wherein the plurality of wheels on the rolling cart are guided by the first and second cart rails;
• positioning the rolling cart so that the second work piece is above the first work piece to create a stacked arrangement of work pieces for simultaneous processing during an autoclave cycle.

An autoclave modification kit to expand a work piece processing capacity of an autoclave, the autoclave modification kit comprising:

• a plurality of spacers, wherein the plurality of spacers are configured to increase a height of a rolling cart to provide clearance for work pieces positioned below the rolling cart;
• a roller conveyor having a length, a first edge, and a second edge, the roller conveyor comprising a plurality of free-spinning rollers configured to be fixed to a floor of the autoclave between first and second cart rails;
• and
• a plurality of guides, the guides configured to be mounted on the first edge and the second edge of the roller conveyor to contain work pieces within a contained width that is inwardly spaced from the first and second cart rails.