New Medical-Grade POM Resin Supports Design FlexibilityNew Medical-Grade POM Resin Supports Design Flexibility

Mitsubishi Engineering-Plastics Corp. (MEP) has developed a new medical-grade polyacetal (POM) resin. The Iupital MA series meets the quality and regulatory requirements for medical applications and is available in a range of standard, high-flow, high-rigidity, and low-friction grades. The resin allows greater design flexibility in the development of smaller, lighter medical devices and equipment, said MEP.

Low-friction grade MAL20 improves sliding performance, according to MEP. In the past, combining POM parts would generate squeaking noise and friction, so designs would combine different materials in order to avoid these issues. MAL20 suppresses friction and wear, even when combined with ordinary POM, achieving quiet, smooth movement, which greatly improves comfort when used in medical devices.

MEP adds that it offers a coloring masterbatch for color mixing with the MA series, supporting the part’s visual design as well as its physical characteristics.

"These new materials will expand the range of designs, especially for medical devices and instruments, and contribute to improving their functionality,” said MEP Vice President, Katsushige Hayashi.

The Iupital MA series materials are suitable for molding inhalers, insulin pens, and various parts for medical devices.