High-Performance Polyacetal Series for Medical & Healthcare Applications

An expanded portfolio of high-performance polyacetal (POM) materials for the medical and healthcare market was featured by Polyplastics at the recently-held MD&M West in Anaheim.

The newly expanded Duracon POM PM series was developed for drug contact and delivery applications, and complements the company’s Topas COC (cyclic olefin copolymer) product—a high-purity material for a range of medical applications.

The newest Duracon PM line offering is high-flow grade PM27S01N, which reportedly offers reduced wall thickness, miniaturization, and lower weight for various medical devices that are becoming increasingly complicated and highly functional. The PM series also includes Duracon PM09S01N, a standard viscosity grade.

High-flow grade PM27S01N is said to deliver global medical and food contact regulatory compliance. In a changing and growing marketplace, medical device manufacturers and end users demand high-quality materials and reliable suppliers, according to Polyplastics, which is a leading global manufacturer of POM materials for diverse markets.

Duracon POM’s excellent slip and wear properties permit lower friction and thus greater design freedom. The materials also show superior heat and moisture durability compared to competitive medical grades. The PM series is usable under hot steam and ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization conditions. The materials adhere to strict quality management systems including conformity to the VDI 2017 medical-grade plastics guideline. They also provide full traceability of processes and products, and production management based on GMP principles.

The PM series reportedly exhibits a minimal level of extraction with food simulant (alcohol, acid, etc.) compared to competitive POM grades. The series meets regulatory compliance requirements including ISO10993 and USP Class VI biocompatibility/cytotoxicity, FDA Drug Master File (DMF) and Device Master File (MAF), and EU 10/2011 and FDA food-contact 21 CFR 177.2470. Polyplastics offers medical device manufacturers extensive data on the long-term reliability of its materials. Customized data on extraction, moldability, durability, slip and wear, and other key attributes is also available.