Fluoropolymers are engineered plastics. Their attraction for many manufacturers lies in the materials capabilities to provide specific qualities to diverse metal components. Using a fluoropolymer coating is an ongoing trend in the medical device industry. This and other healthcare industries are a growing market for coating specialists.
Fluoropolymers Types and Qualities
Fluoropolymers are available in three basic types. These are:
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
- Perfluoroalkoxy (PFA)
- Fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP)
They have their various divergent characteristics and applications, but they also possess similar qualities. They are prevalent for applications that require
- Lubricity or friction reduction
- Non-stick or easy release
- Corrosion or chemical resistance
- Withstands a wide range of temperature
- Abrasion resistance
- Electrical resistance
- Hydrophobic
For those who design metal parts requiring any of the characteristics may consider employing fluoropolymer coatings. However, these very qualities make such coatings invaluable in many medical applications.
Common Medical Applications
Fluoropolymers, particularly PTFE, conform to the specialized performance criteria of the medical device industry. A fluoropolymer coating, in addition to the above qualities, is highly biocompatible, possesses sterilization properties and overall offers high purity. It is in use as a coating for several specific medical devices. These are:
- Medical guidewires including those for catheters
- Wires and fittings for cosmetic orthodontic pieces
- Scalpel blades
- Surgical instrumentation
Coatings also provide protection for any metal devices that can or might come into contact with chemically aggressive fluids.
Fluoropolymer Coating
The demand for fluoropolymer coatings is increasing. Once the proprietary coating of pots and pans, this unique product continues to make inroads in the marketplace. It is not only replacing other plastics in the production of many medical devices. The addition of a fluoropolymer coating can improve the qualities of many metal medical devices in use today and in the future.
