Medical devices that have any plastic-on-metal or plastic-on-plastic sliding parts may be candidates for utilizing technologies that improve the wear resistance of those parts of the device. Gears inside pumps, sliding covers, and other internal device components are all examples of applications that have used wear resistant technologies.
Additives like PTFE and silicone are commonly used to improve the lubricity and wear resistance of a material. A classic example of how lubricated materials can improve product performance is in a blood glucose meter housing. An unmodified polycarbonate showed significant wear and abrasion at the interface of the cover and the housing. Utilizing a wear resistant additive package in the compound increased product life and eliminated squeaking that occurred when the lid was opened and closed
Applications
- Catheters
- Bushings
- Gears
- Luers
- Valves
- Sliding Mechanisms
- Safety syringes/devices
