ABS Resin Goes with Flow of Molding COVID-Related Parts and DevicesABS Resin Goes with Flow of Molding COVID-Related Parts and Devices

The lower molding temperature and pressure requirements of Toray’s Toyolac-branded ABS resin compared with other polymers has been a boon for medical device OEMs seeking to increase production capacity and turnaround times. Those objectives have taken on heightened importance as companies pivot to rapid production of COVID-related components and products.

Thanks to operating cylinder temperatures ranging from 210° to 260°C, Toyolac provides smoother resin flow and increased cycle times with decreased part flash, said Toray. This enhanced flowability allows for increased part cavitation and improves the molding of thin-walled part features. It also reduces tooling wear and contributes to a longer mold life, said Toray. To illustrate the material’s benefits, Toray cites heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) molded with Toyolac resin.

The HME parts bond together easily by means of adhesives, said Toray, and they withstand exposure to lipids, alcohol, and cleaning agents. The material imparts strength and stiffness across the molded components. The scratch-resistant molded surface is also printable for tracking and identification purposes as well as brand identification.

Manufacturers can rest easy knowing that Toray’s “no-change” production methods, formulations, and test methods/equipment policies ensure long-term stability. Registered in the FDA Drug Master File, Toyolac is USP Class 6–tested and meets the ISO 10993 standard for biocompatibility. Specific tests include ISO 10993-4 for blood interactions, -5 for in vitro cytoxicity, -10 for irritation and skin sensitization, and -11 for systemic cytotoxicity.

Toyolac does not contain bisphenol-A, stresses Toray, a chemical that has been linked in some studies with human health problems. 

Toray was the first manufacturer of transparent ABS resin and remains the world’s largest maker of the material.