Spot cure system can control four LED heads simultaneously
A new UV LED spot curing system from EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering provides a peak irradiance of 9500 mW/cm² with a lifetime of more than 20 000 hours. The OmniCureLX400 can control up to four UV LED heads simultaneously with a single connection; they can also be controlled independently. UV LED heads are available in three different wavelengths. Each head can be set at different irradiance levels (in 1% increments) and exposure times. Manufacturers can use a single UV LED spot curing system for various UV assembly applications whilst maintaining a high level of control.
EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering
Mississauga, ON, Canada +1 905 821 2600 www.exfo-lsi.com [7]
Emitter expands medical gas analysis capabilities
Cal Sensors has introduced a high-output, high-pulse-rate emitter for near-to-far infrared applications at 180 Hz with 50% modulation depth. The PIREPlus has a pulsing speed that is 18× faster than alternative technologies, according to the manufacturer, and it maximises signal-to-noise performance, expanding the measurement dynamic range and resolution for trace gases with very low parts per million. Suited for industrial and medical gas analysis among other applications, the solid-state emitter offers high output and includes integrated drive electronics. The emitter’s radiating element is an ultra-thin metallic foil configured to direct radiation from both sides of the heated foil along the optic axis. The foil material has an emissivity of 0.88 and closely emulates a blackbody source in spectral distribution.
Cal Sensors
Santa Rosa, CA, USA +1 707 545 4181 www.calsensors.com [8]
Breakaway connectors employ reliable quick-disconnect system
ITT Interconnect Solutions, a global manufacturer of connectors, interconnects and cable assemblies, has introduced a line of breakaway connectors that incorporate a simple push/pull mating mechanism to engage and disengage the connector systems. The Nemesis Series and MKJ Series breakaway connectors’ coupling mechanism uses a canted-spring design, which allows for a quick disconnect and ensures reliable performance for more than 5000 cycles. The connectors are suited for portable medical imaging and diagnostic equipment, as they are sufficiently robust and reliable to withstand field use.
The breakaway connectors feature the company’s proprietary spring probe pin/pad contact system. The contact design uses an internal clip mechanism that helps reduce electrical contact resistance. Additionally, the spring probe contact system accommodates misalignment issues. The spring probe system allows the connector receptacle to house individual touch pad contact areas, providing an effective electrical engagement point of contact. Further, the spring probe contact system and touch pads allow easy cleaning in the field, where contaminants may be present.
ITT Corp.
Weinstadt, Germany +49 7151 6990 www.ittcannon.com [9]
Silicone coating resists abrasion from sliding and rubbing parts
The MED-6670 material from Nusil Technology features a curable coating that decreases the coefficient of friction of the underlying silicone surface by a minimum of 50% when compared with a noncoated silicone surface. Silicone elastomers inherently have a high degree of surface tack and a tendency for blocking (sticking by virtue of chemical affinity), which may cause problems in applications where they come in contact with each other or other surfaces. Applications include precision-moulded parts, moulded rubber stoppers and O-rings.
MED-6670 is a two-part silicone coating dispersed in xylene. A thin coat of MED-6670 cures rapidly with elevated temperatures. Once cured, the coating chemically bonds to the silicone elastomer substrate, mimicking its mechanical properties. The result is a smooth finish with durable, yet flexible coating.
NuSil Technology Europe
Sophia Antipolis, France, +33 4 9296 9331 www.nusil.com [10]
Pump is designed for high-pressure catheter washing and cooling
A peristaltic pump offered by Watson-Marlow is designed for catheter washing and cooling applications requiring pressures up to 90 psi or flow rates up to 100 ml/min. All of the pumped fluid is completely contained within the tubing, so cleaning the pump is as simple as replacing a disposable tube set. The pump has a unique cover/loading lever that lifts the track when opened to facilitate loading of the disposable tubing. When closed, the clear cover gives a full view of pump operation and allows verification that the tube is loaded correctly. Tubing with inner diameters from 1⁄6 to 3⁄16 in. can be accommodated. The system is available to medical device customers as a complete plug-and-play cased pump, or as a panel-mount OEM unit. Drive options for the 400/RX include brushless or stepper motors with built-in drives.
Watson-Marlow
Falmouth, UK +44 1326 370370 www.watson-marlow.co.uk [11]
Scan head control system and software increase laser welding throughput
A scan head control system and software for an industrial range of fibre lasers enable greater control and flexibility and reduced production times for seam and spot welding applications compared with conventional systems. Designed for the JKFL fibre lasers from GSI Group, the system includes a Scan Head with recollimation unit, Scan Control Unit with a compact brick PC and drive electronics, and Scan Head User Interface (SHUI). The latter is integrated into the FiberView software to enable seamless programming of all scan head functions and laser parameters through a single operator screen. The Scan Head System precisely and quickly deflects the beam with a range of spot sizes and working areas. These are determined by a selection of lenses that are matched to the fiber laser and scan head models. They provide focussed beam diameters from 15 to 300 μm and usable working areas from 60 × 60 to 300 × 300 mm.
GSI Group, Laser Div.
Rugby, UK +44 1788 517 800 www.gsiglasers.com [12]
Antistatic compounds for inhalation devices ensure correct drug dose
Sabic has launched three additions to its family of LNP Stat-Loy specialty compounds. The transparent materials provide permanent antistatic properties, eliminating the need for expensive secondary operations, and helping to ensure repeatability of dosing and potentially lower drug costs through improved efficiency of aerosol and powder dispensing. The LNP Stat-Loy specialty compound grades are pre-assessed for biocompatibility according to ISO 10993 to help manufacturers expedite compliance and time to market. Static electricity is a challenge in the effective use of inhalation devices; tiny drug particles can build up an electrostatic charge causing them to adhere to the device instead of being dispensed to the patient. The compounds provide built-in permanent antistatic performance to assist with the efficient delivery of a full dose of a powder or aerosol to the patient, contributing to improved safety and better outcomes. Unlike older inhalers that use coatings to control static charges, the inherent antistatic properties of the LNP Stat-Loy compounds avoid the need for costly secondary operations.
The LNP Stat-Loy compounds are available in three transparent resin systems: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene; polymethylmethacrylate/acrylic; and Xylex resin, a polycarbonate/polyester alloy. The clarity of these compounds ensures visibility of device contents. The materials also can be easily coloured.
Sabic
Bergen op Zoom
+31 164 292911
www.sabic-ip.com [13]