Medical TPEs for tubing applications

A new series of medical-grade thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) for peristaltic pump tubing provides elasticity over a broad temperature range, withstands stresses of pump action over time, and, unlike silicone, are weldable and heat-sealable.    

 

The new series of Medalist® compounds from Teknor Apex Company includes clear, translucent, and opaque grades for the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, medical infusion systems, and dialysis machines (see table). In comparison with other TPEs, the Medalist TPEs exhibit lower levels of spallation—the shedding of particles from the inner surface of the tubing caused by repeated compression and release during pump operation. The elasticity of these compounds allows tubing to keep pace with rapid pump action, and their durability enables it to retains its shape and remain intact over time.

 

 

The Medalist compounds exhibit a low level of extractables, are compatible with a broad range of chemicals, and can be sterilized by e-beam, gamma, and ethylene oxide. Specialty grades are available for biopharmaceutical applications with extreme low-temperature requirements.

 

Teknor Apex produces Medalist compounds in ISO-13485 facilities in the USA and Singapore. The new materials are made with FDA listed ingredients, are certified to ISO 10993-5 standards for biocompatibility, and are REACH SVHC compliant. They are free of DEHP and other phthalates, BPA, and latex. Standard grades are ADM-free.