Exploring the Medical Tubing Manufacturing Process
Plastic medical tubing is used in various applications due to the biocompatibility of plastics, their durability, and flexibility. However, since these products are used in many medical applications, they must be manufactured in a way that is safe for use in sterile conditions. Let’s explore the medical tubing manufacturing process and how it may differ from regular manufacturing processes.
What Products Are Created Through the Medical Tubing Manufacturing Process?
Plastic tubing extrusion is a common way to produce medical tubing. This manufacturing process can be used to create tubing that may be used in surgical procedures, medicine administration, and more. Extrusion is also able to create tubing that is rigid, semi-rigid, and flexible. Some common medical tubing products created through extrusion include IV tubing, catheters, fluid delivery, single-use tubing, medical device tubing, drainage tubing, and more.
Why is Plastic Extruded Tubing So Popular in the Medical Industry?
Plastics have a wide range of properties that make them ideal for medical applications. Some of the most advantageous properties include:
Resistance to Corrosion and Impact
Many plastics used in medical tubing are corrosion and impact-resistant. This means these products will not break down during chemical processes or oxidation. These materials also won’t break when they are dropped. The durability of these products allows patients to use them continuously in various environments without having to worry about them losing their integrity.
Heat Resistance
The types of polymers used in medical tubing are usually resistant to heat. By being able to withstand high temperatures, they can be washed in hot water or can be steamed for sterilization without having to be concerned about the plastic melting, breaking down, or losing its functionality.
Withstands Frequent Sterilization Cycles
There are many different types of sterilization used in the medical industry, including processes that use chemicals and heat. Plastic tubing must be able to withstand frequent sterilization cycles in order to be safe for use. The plastics that are chosen for medical tubing will be able to withstand both heat and chemicals for these processes.
Biocompatibility
Biocompatibility refers to a material’s ability to be in contact with a living being without producing adverse effects. There are many polymers on the market that exhibit biocompatibility and these are the polymers that are used in medical tubing and devices.
Flexible
Some polymers are inherently flexible, making them ideal for use in medical tubing. From IV tubing to catheters, flexible polymers make sure these tubes are comfortable for patients, easy to use for medical professionals, and can complete their intended use properly.
How the Medical Tubing Manufacturing Process Works
To start the medical tubing manufacturing process, a polymer must be chosen for your application. Some of the most common polymers used in the medical industry include polycarbonate, polypropylene, and polyethylene — however, there are other options you can discuss with your manufacturing partner.
Once the polymer is chosen, the manufacturing process can begin. Typically, due to the nature of the application of these products, manufacturing will take place in an ISO-certified cleanroom. Cleanrooms are a controlled manufacturing environment that filters out pollutants that may harm the patient or impact the function of the product. By producing medical tubing in a cleanroom, you will ensure that your products are free from harmful debris or pollutants when they leave production.
During the manufacturing process, the chosen plastic is fed into the barrel of the plastic extruder. Here it is melted by heaters and turning screws. Then, the melted plastic is forced through the extrusion die, and as it cools, the polymer takes its permanent shape.
If You Are Looking for a Partner to Take On Your Medical Tubing Manufacturing Process, Turn to Custom Profile
At Custom Profile, we have been creating high-quality plastic extruded parts and tubing since 1992. With our extensive extrusion capabilities and experience, plus our ISO-certified Class 8 Cleanroom, our team can take on a wide range of medical extrusion projects, including medical tubing extrusion.
Additionally, we can assemble and finish your products, as well as create your plastic extrusion tooling. Plus, if you can’t find the right polymer for your needs, we can create compounds that enhance the physical properties of various polymers.
If you are ready to get started, contact our team today.