The Best Products and Services of the Year
The following product and service descriptions, first published in EMDM between May 1998 and April 1999, garnered the greatest number of requests for information from our readers. The companies reprised in this section are among the most innovative suppliers to the device industry, and we are pleased to have an opportunity to profile these articles here. In some cases, the descriptions have been updated to account for product modifications that were introduced since the article initially appeared. Congratulations to our fifth annual Top 40 winners.
Laser coding system
Combining high-speed printing with stationary coding capabilities, a recently launched laser printer also incorporates a web-tracking feature. The 510G can follow the lateral movements of a web or product, positioning coding in relation to the edge. For example, the system can code x-ray film precisely 1 mm from its edge without causing light spillage. The unit, which is suited for use in hygienic, dust-free environments, attains printing speeds up to 466 m/min. The printhead can be mounted horizontally or vertically and comes with a 5-m cord to enable maximum positioning flexibility. Willett, Corby, Northants, UK.
Pressure sensors
Small pressure sensors can be mounted directly onto a PC board. The components are fabricated from chemically resistant PPS, which also withstands high temperatures, and they are designed to replace larger mechanical-type sensors. 
The sensors are available in pressure ranges from 0 to 150 psi. An amplified sensor with almost 5-V output, the MPXV5010GC6U is suited for low-pressure applications such as spirometers and hospital beds. The MPXV50GC6U model is recommended for use in blood pressure equipment. Motorola Semiconducteurs S.A., Toulouse, France.
Metal tubing
Metal tubing is supplied in diameters from 0.4 mm and in wall thicknesses from 0.05 to 4.0 mm. Tolerances in small-diameter tubing routinely attain ±0.01 mm. Medical applications of the tubing produced at the facility include endoscopic and laparoscopic instruments. Stainless steels and a variety of alloys are processed by the company, which works in close collaboration with metallurgists at the Sandvik Research and Development Centre in Sweden. The firm is certified to ISO 9002 and adheres to AFNOR, DIN, BSI, and other international standards. Sandvik Précitube, Charost, France.
Magnetic-drive centrifugal pumps
Small magnetic-drive centrifugal pumps are designed to work with different chemicals without leakage. The UL-approved pumps' hydraulic design ensures optimal performance. Applications include medical and laboratory equipment, laser and x-ray cooling systems, film processors, and temperature baths. GRI Europe a/s, Søborg, Denmark.
Woven wire mesh filters
Woven wire mesh filters, screens, and strainers can be fabricated in a variety of materials to almost any shape or size. They are supplied in small, medium, or large production runs. Suited for engineering, processing, and OEM applications, the components can be produced to customer specifications. Design and development assistance is also available. In addition to woven wire mesh, perforated plate and other combinations can be produced. Endecotts Ltd., London, UK.
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