Engineering plastics are increasingly used in the manufacture of medical equipment, components, and devices. The department uses science-based, high-quality raw materials, ensuring compliance with health and international standards. However, there are many factors that determine the suitability and manufacturing feasibility of medical-grade plastics for highly sensitive medical components. In order to make an effective selection, manufacturers should know the type and grade of plastic most suitable for their specified product
Below are some of the most important physical and chemical properties of engineering-grade plastics that enable the manufacture of precision medical devices. Manufacturers must consider these properties when selecting the appropriate material.
Mechanical behavior
Each medical device may have specific requirements for the raw plastics and materials used in the manufacturing process. These requirements pay close attention to the mechanical properties of engineering plastics, such as impact strength, tensile and compressive strength, abrasion resistance and bending stiffness. Some of the best engineering plastics for this may include thermoplastics such as polyacetal, POM, PPSU, PC, nylon, and PEEK. Temperature changes can also have a significant impact on complex medical devices and their functional integrity.
Dimensional stability
The dimensional stability of engineering materials used to manufacture medical devices can greatly affect the functionality of the medical device. Exposure to high temperatures, different chemicals, and environments can affect the physical behavior of an instrument based on its material, such as shrinkage. This requires materials with excellent dimensional stability and tolerances. Some common dimensionally stable engineering plastics used in medical devices include PEI, PSU, PES, PC, and PPSU.
drug flow path
Some medical devices may come into direct contact with the stream of medication injected into a patient. The material should be neutral when in direct contact with a range of drugs.
Conductivity
The conductivity of the material can also affect drug delivery and dosing. If the delivered drug is attracted to the thermoplastic, it may deliver an incorrect dose. Therefore, permanent antistatic compounds are used in many medical devices to reduce or eliminate the static buildup of drugs.
Biocompatibility
Plastic materials used to manufacture sensitive medical devices must be biocompatible with chemicals and the environment to which it is exposed. Biocompatibility testing is to check biocompatibility. These standard tests include USP Class VI and ISO 10993. ISO standard testing is very rigorous and precise.
beautiful and durable
Medical devices may be subject to shipping and other harsh conditions. This requires these medical devices made of plastic to be durable and strong. Another important feature is patient aesthetics, such as pleasure and comfort when using the device.
Resistance
Medical-grade engineering plastics should be resistant to a wide range of chemicals, such as disinfectants and hospital cleaners. Several plastics can react with other chemicals or deteriorate when exposed to other active agents such as bleach, isopropyl alcohol, and peroxide. They should also be able to withstand the sterilization process, which is extremely important for medical devices that come into contact with body fluids or tissues.
lubricating
Medical devices may consist of sliding and mechanically moving parts. Without proper resistance, these parts can experience friction and wear. Some examples of such components may include sliding covers, implants, and moving gears. Additives can be used to improve the material's lubricity and water resistance, such as silicone and Teflon.
Radiopacity - Visualization
Radiopacity can be defined as the ability of a material to be seen under fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging. To render engineering plastic polymers radiopaque, certain additives can be added.
The choice of available plastics is not limited. However, one has to find the one with the best performance. In addition to the very important physical and chemical properties of medical plastics mentioned above, there are several other properties that can be specially considered, such as:
· Arc resistance
· Chemical resistance
· Linear thermal expansion coefficient
· Compare Tracking Index
· Creep
· Load deflection temperature
· Density and specific gravity
· Dielectric constant
· Dielectric strength
· Dissipation factor
· Elasticity
· Environmental and chemical stress
· Flammability
· Bending strength
· Impact strength
· Inherent flame retardancy.
· Low wear
· Lubricity
· Melting point
· Mold shrinkage
· Opacity and light transmittance
· Tensile elongation
· tensile strength
· Thermal Conductivity
· Volume resistivity
· Water absorption
Summarize
Engineering plastics are gaining popularity in the medical manufacturing industry due to their unrivaled performance in demanding and stressful applications.
In most cases, these materials are chosen for their efficiency in different applications. When selecting a plastic for a specific application, various properties of the plastic need to be considered, such as thermal, chemical, physical, sterilizing, mechanical and electrical properties. Successful production of these materials to stringent standards requires an in-depth knowledge of the manufacturer's parts. Therefore, choosing the right supplier of engineering-grade plastics for medical devices is crucial.