Originally Published EMDM September 2005
Equipment News
Recent Developments in Testing Equipment
Three-dimensional surface-profiling system also performs 2-D measurement
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An instrument designed for high-precision 3-D surface profiling is versatile enough to perform comprehensive 2-D measurements as well. The Talysurf CLI system, developed by Taylor Hobson (Leicester, UK), is useful in a range of medical applications such as dental wear characterization, microfluidic geometry determination, and orthopaedic implant analysis.
The system can be fitted with up to four different gauging heads, allowing measurement of a vast combination of material types and surface finishes. Three gauging technologies are available: noncontact chromatic length aberration, laser triangulation, and inductive. All Talysurf systems include motorized x-y positioning axes with a 0.5-µm indexing resolution. All controls are consolidated in a single unit, and a granite base and gantry minimize environmental effects and ensure repeatability.
To adequately evaluate or predict functional performance in medical devices, data must be collected in three dimensions, according to the company. The Talysurf CLI system is designed to provide such data for devices that require precise control of shape, texture, or surface microstructures.
Three models are available to accommodate components in varying sizes, different production methods, and available floor space.
Automated system offers all-in-one seal-strength and leak testing capabilities
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Designed for use with flexible packaging, an automated package tester combines seal-strength and leak testing in a single unit. The BT-1000 from TM Electronics, a US-based firm with representation in Deerlijk, Belgium, provides users with a choice of burst, creep, and creep-to-failure tests. The seal-strength tests are suited for evaluating porous pouches, trays, or blister packaging made of Tyvek and paper barriers. It also can test the performance of foil, laminate, and nonpaper barrier materials. The use of quantitative measuring methodology ensures precise repeatable results. Critical variables are controlled by the operator. Eight test modes can be called up without necessitating a change in the setup, test item, or instrument settings. The unit provides graphic results of individual seal-strength and package integrity tests.
Digital module converts microscopes into image capture systems
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A standard microcamera can be combined with a compound or stereo microscope to create a complete digital imaging system. Pyser-SGI Ltd. (Edenbridge, Kent, UK) offers two options: the XES-81TIS is designed for use with stereo zoom microscopes for industrial inspections, while the XES-T20IS can be used with compound microscopes for biomedical-related applications.
The firm’s Microcams provide high-quality images that can be captured, enhanced, and measured using the system’s comprehensive software. Standard and advanced software is available. The advanced program features a multiple-image alignment function, which allows users to produce single high-definition images from a sequence of images.
The systems’ USB 2.0 connection eliminates the need for an additional power supply, and the C-type mounting mechanism is compatible with most trinocular microscopes. The systems were developed, according to the firm, to respond to demand for an economically priced image capture tool.
Integrated station measures surface contamination
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Suited for evaluating the cleanliness of biomedical products, an integrated testing station rapidly measures particulate levels on the surface of complex-shaped devices. The Surfex-100, developed by Particle Measuring Systems (Malvern, Worcs, UK), combines ultrasonic extraction and optical measurement technologies to quantify surface cleanliness. Test recipes and simple menu-driven software minimize the potential for data variability caused by human error. A range of particle counter sensitivities and ultrasonic frequencies are available to suit custom applications.
The compact system may lower the cost of evaluating surface cleanliness for OEMs, says the manufacturer, because it increases sample throughput compared with manual test methods. Makers of orthopaedic, cardiovascular, and dental devices are among the manufacturers that would benefit from the system.
The firm also offers a surface contamination testing service at its facility, and it can provide testing hardware and application assistance for customers wishing to perform surface cleanliness inspections on-site.
Maker of testing instruments adds touch screen
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Described as a cost-effective alternative to fully computerized systems, a control unit based on current touch screen technology is now offered with a company’s line of electromechanical testers. The controller brings simplicity and ease of use to the 3300 series of mechanical testing equipment, according to Instron (Norwood, MA, USA).
The TouchPanel controller facilitates simple tension and compression tests as well as established quality control of materials and components. The data can be transferred to a memory stick and can be transmitted to a printer.
Two testing modes can be called up on the touch screen: the Quick Test mode is suited for simple one-time tests; Method-Based Testing is used for structured, preconfigured test procedures.
Miniature connector automates sealing of tubing prior to testing
A miniature connector enables the automated sealing of tubing and tube-end components for testing purposes. The product is suited for use with medical valves, catheter tubing, and miniature pumps; it also has a range of industrial applications. The FE Mini-Connector is offered by Weh GmbH (Illertissen, Germany).
The connector operates by means of air pressure. An internal piston compresses an elastomer seal that makes an instant leak-tight connection. The operator inserts the test piece into the connector and actuates the pilot pressure to initiate the sealing process.
The device is designed to replace clamp-on and push-on connectors that do not lend themselves as readily to automated methods. The miniature connector is available for tubing in diameters from 0.8 to 77 mm.
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