Originally Published EMDM November/December
2004
Technology News
Forming Technology Produces Thin-Walled Moulded Parts with Novel PropertiesMelody Lee
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| Melt-Phase technology forms containers with deep draw and seamless walls. |
A new forming technology combines the strengths of traditional thermoforming
with blow moulding. The Melt-Phase process developed by PBM Plastics
(Newport News, VA, USA) creates very thin, heat-resistant Ultraware material,
which offers novel design options, according to the firm. The technique can
be used to produce containers with deep draws, seamless walls, and precision
flanges.
Ultraware materials feature chemical resistance as well as heat resistance up
to 500°F. Draw ratios of up to 8:1 and walls as thin as 1 mil are possible.
More than 10 layers may be included in a single flexible liner material, which
can offer barrier protection.
Ultraware can replace a number of traditional materials such as glass, metal,
and thermoset resins. The resulting disposable products are fully autoclavable.
A sterile guard used in cleanrooms and medical applications has been developed
using the Melt-Phase process. Designed for difficult shapes, the cover is available
either transparent or in colour.
PBM Plastics has also worked with a company to create a liner for a personal
medical dispensing system. The OEM needed to integrate into the device a liner
that would collapse and release more than 99.5% of the contents. An accordion
bellows design with a rigid flange allowed controlled collapse, while the barrier
material ensured a long shelf life.
The process has also been used to make nonsolid bladder systems, filtration
sleeves, and medical dispensing and collecting devices.
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European Medical Device Manufacturer
