In the realm of medical device manufacturing, the pursuit of improved performance and design in the interest of patient safety remains a paramount goal. Central to achieving this objective are reliable and efficient material solutions.
Silicone, a versatile material, offers a plethora of advantages when employed in medical device components. Beyond its inherent tactile feel and enhanced grip, silicone boasts impressive durability. Moreover, its biocompatibility, coupled with low toxicity levels, makes it a fitting choice for clinical settings. Its adaptability is further underscored by its ability to be easily sterilized and autoclaved. Notably, silicone functions seamlessly across a broad temperature range, exhibiting chemical inertness and amenable coating properties. With a spectrum of durometers, ranging from soft to hard, silicone can be tailored to various applications, adjusting impact resistance as needed.
AMETEK EMC, a innovative partner in the industry, offers two pivotal molding processes: Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) Molding and Silicone Transfer Molding (STM). These techniques play a pivotal role in producing an array of medical device components, including catheters, connectors, surgical instrument grips, programming antennas for Cardiac Rhythm Management, hearing aids, and more.
Each molding process bears distinct advantages. LSR molding, known for its rapid, high-volume production capabilities, shines in crafting components less susceptible to pressure or impact. In contrast, Silicone Transfer Molding entails a meticulous and gentle procedure, making it the preferred choice for overmolding intricate electronic elements like PC boards and delicate cables. Central to the success of these processes are an adept engineering team and cutting-edge technology, pivotal in delivering impeccable end products.
Lih Fang Chew, AMETEK EMC's Vice President of Sales & Marketing, elucidates, "Our comprehensive capabilities span both LSR and Silicone Transfer molding processes, whether executed as a unified assembly or sequentially. Operating under one roof, our highly qualified engineering team is well-versed in both methodologies." A distinctive facet of AMETEK EMC's prowess lies in its mastery of overmolding sensitive electronics, an endeavor few competitors undertake due to the inherent risks. Yet, armed with profound knowledge of LSR and Silicone materials, AMETEK EMC's engineers deftly navigate this intricate terrain. Their expertise in comprehending biocompatibility, resistance, and material versatility empowers them to discern the perfect fit for diverse custom components and projects.
Lih Fang Chew further emphasizes, "Our exceptional range sets us apart, and we offer an additional, cost-effective alternative – Low Pressure Molding of polymers, enabling intricate geometrics for encapsulated components."
Guided by an unwavering commitment to innovation, AMETEK EMC stands at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge products that prioritize performance, safety, and reliability. Medical experts rely on AMETEK EMC's LSR and Silicone molded products across a spectrum of surgical procedures. With over four decades of molding expertise underpinning its legacy, AMETEK EMC continues to establish the benchmark for Liquid Silicone Rubber and Silicone Transfer Molding solutions in the medical device industry.
