Distrupol’s Medical Comparator Cards simplify material selection for medical components

Distrupol, a member company of Univar and a leading European polymer distributor, technical service and solutions provider, has introduced the Medical Comparator Card, a unique aid for designers and moulders engaged in the engineering and manufacture of medical components. Offering the possibility to simplify and speed up the materials selection process for those already engaged in the field, the Medical Comparator Card is seen as particularly valuable for those considering or approaching for the first time the use of plastics for medical applications.

“The one goal all our customers have in common,” says Distrupol polymer engineer Derek Bean, “is cost reduction, whether in new product development or material replacement in an existing part. In developing the Medical Comparator Card our objective has been to provide them with a tool that can contribute substantial time and cost savings at the front end of those processes.”

Medical approved polymers are used in applications ranging from tubing, syringes, blood bags and drug delivery systems to inhalers, diagnostic equipment components, prostheses and implants. To safeguard patient health, all polymers that are used in parts and components associated with medical or surgical treatments or procedures must meet the most stringent requirements. In Distrupol’s product portfolio these are qualified according to the requirements of International Standards Organisation (ISO) cycotoxicity, United States Pharmacopeia (USP), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals or Drug Master File (DMF) listings.

The Medical Comparator provides an easy, accurate reference to achieve the optimal, approved match of material with application by means of a cross-comparison chart of key properties. This enables the designer or specifier to quickly identify for example which material is sterilisable, and by which method, and combines clarity with high flow, high heat resistance and flexibility, as well as a complete spectrum of other property combinations.

“Distrupol offers one of the most diverse portfolios of polymers for use in a broad cross-section of medical applications,” explains Bean. “This allows us to make a comprehensive comparison of materials very few companies are in a position to undertake. Even producers themselves can only provide data in respect of their own polymers.”

According to Bean, because this approach embraces all generic polymers it is highly advantageous to those operating in the medical sector, as it significantly reduces the time otherwise taken in reviewing, analysing and comparing separate material data.

“Using the Medical Comparator is a valuable first step, especially for designers and moulders unfamiliar with plastic materials. In addition to being a practical aid, it illustrates the vast array of application possibilities these materials open up. Importantly, for customers wanting to translate their ideas into application solutions, Distrupol can provide the necessary professional assistance to smooth the way,” says Bean.

“Based on our wealth of experience working with the medical components industry, Distrupol can help at each step in the product development process from initial design and material selection, through computer modelling and mould flow simulation to troubleshooting final production.”