EQUIPMENT NEWS
Laser micrometers provide 3-D measurement of cylindrical products
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Products such as catheters, tubing, stents, and syringes can be measured accurately in 3-D using a laser micrometer from LaserLinc Inc. (Fairborn, OH, USA). The three-axis micrometers are suited for measuring an array of round and elliptical products, regardless of the angle at which the product is oriented. According to the firm, its three-axis micrometer is more than twice as likely as a two-axis micrometer to detect flaws that do not encircle the product and is substantially more accurate at measuring average diameter. The Triton 312 and 330 units are suitable for all manufacturing environments, including cleanrooms.
The firm’s Total Vu Software can display results graphically in real time as trend charts, x-bar and range charts, and histograms. Measurement values are presented in a large easy-to-read colour-coded panel. By merging measurement data with other software features, parameters such as temperature, pressure, RPM, and load can be monitored.
Printing and capping machines accommodate custom requirements
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UV printing and assembly machines for medical devices are the specialty of Grauel International (Helmond, Netherlands). Suited for products such as pipettes, syringes, vials, and centrifugal tubes, machines can be developed to accommodate custom requirements. The company’s machines support printing and assembly operations at speeds ranging from 50 to 500 parts/min.
The manufacturer generally uses a linear conveying system for product handling. This unit makes use of a chain that is built from aluminium CNC milled links with a 125-mm pitch. The chain has a stainless-steel guide, does not wear or lengthen, is servo driven, and positions within ±0.05 mm without additional fixtures. The tubes are fed by a stainless-steel bulk feeder and vibratory feeders into the machine at a speed of 120 parts/min. A servo-driven capping station with an adjustable magnetic torque clutch mounts the caps on the tubes. After that, the tubes are corona pretreated and printed with a two-colour dry offset printer. This is followed by UV curing and automated packaging.
Machine software is used to continuously record all manufacturing processes. It is possible to integrate a preventive maintenance module, telling the machine operator what maintenance tasks should be carried out. All process information can be stored in a database that can be analyzed using standard Windows software.
Machines provide accurate and reliable pump assembly
A semiautomatic machine for pump load, press, check, liquid dispensing, and testing operations is available from Mechatronic Solutions (Birmingham, UK). The machine can be adopted to suit custom operations; it is typically used in medical device and pharmaceutical applications for low to medium production volumes and development runs. The unit uses high-level HMI, PLC with diagnostic checking, and it provides the option of data captures to maintain quality control.
All machines from Mechatronic come with full documentation, and the company provides comprehensive training for technicians and operators. When designing machines, the firm works closely with customers to identify their needs and then uses a “concept kaizen” workshop, where a mock-up of the machinery is developed and then analyzed to determine how to minimize expenses. The firm chooses the most effective concept, which is developed and then taken through to a fully commissioned installation.
As well as stand-alone machines, the firm also supplies turnkey manufacturing cells.
Semiautomated machine assembles oxygen masks
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In addition to custom solutions dedicated to medical device manufacturing, A Uno Tec S.r.l. (Mirandola, MO, Italy) supplies a semiautomatic machine for the assembly of oxygen masks. The system cuts elastic from a reel to a preset length and inserts it into a mask. The assembled mask is then automatically discharged. Photoelectric barriers stop machine operation in case of accidental operator interference. The machine can assemble roughly 500 pieces/per hour.
The company has 30 years of experience supplying medical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics companies with expert support, from drawing up specifications and designing and constructing machines, to providing after-sales technical service.
Cam-driven assembly machines offer flexibility
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Polyurethane tubing offers high flexibility, elasticity, and resistance to kinking and abrasion. It also can withstand exposure to oil, water, ozone, and grease. Coiled tubing is available with a 16-in. straight tail and the inner diameter of the tubing can range from 1⁄16 to 1⁄4 in. The high-pressure tubing can be used with compression fittings and is offered in copper, nylon, Teflon, and polyethylene. In addition, tubing accessories that are suited for a range of medical applications are also offered. Beswick Engineering Company, Inc., Greenland, NH, USA.
