New friction test data eliminate guesswork in sourcing polymers for medical devices

Compounder RTP Co. (Winona, MN) will present the results of recently compiled tribology data for designers of medical devices to trade show audiences coast to coast in February and March. New data based on an innovative friction test designed to accurately predict friction behavior in single-use medical devices will be unveiled first at MD&M West in Anaheim, CA, followed by NPE2015 in Orlando, FL.

Using the new friction test method, RTP engineers were able to evaluate base resins in a variety of combinations with friction-reducing additives. The data collected from these tests can eliminate trial-and-error testing when sourcing polymers for single-use medical devices. Furthermore, with proper material selection, single-use devices will perform more consistently without the need for external lubrication and the associated extra processing steps, thereby decreasing manufacturing costs and time to market, says the company.

At the MD&M event, RTP also will introduce preliminary results of a new polyester alloy technology that withstands the harsh chemicals found in the cleaners and disinfectants used in hospitals.

At NPE2015, RTP representatives will be available to discuss the company's recent expansion of its Very Long Fiber reinforced Polypropylene (PP VLF) portfolio to include a range of low-emission thermoplastic compounds. The PP VLF products satisfy OEM mandates to reduce the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in thermoplastic materials specified for use in automotive interior applications. International legislation and automotive OEMs have identified the need to reduce odor, fogging and total VOCs to improve air quality and the safety of vehicle interiors. A recent article in PlasticsToday profiles this technology from RTP in greater detail: "Long-fiber PP compounds boast low VOC emissions."

Co-located with PLASTEC West, MD&M West, the nation's largest medical manufacturing event, comes to the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA, from Feb. 10 to 12. RTP will be at booth 2012.

At NPE2015, the company will be at booth 28080 in the South Hall of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. The international event for the plastics industry runs from March 23 to 27.

For up-to-the-minute news about NPE2015, be sure to visit the NPE Channel on the PlasticsToday site.