Properties and Characteristics
Polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as acetal, is a versatile thermoplastic that possesses several properties making it well-suited for medical applications. It offers high strength, rigidity, and impact resistance combined with excellent chemical resistance. POM has a smooth, self-lubricating surface and low coefficient of friction, allowing it to function smoothly and reducing wear on moving parts. These inherent characteristics make POM a preferred material for devices requiring precision, repeatability and reliability.
Medical Polyoxymethylene is biocompatible, bioinert and non-toxic. It does not elicit an immune response or toxic reaction when implanted in the body. The material remains dimensionally stable and retains its mechanical properties when exposed to bodily fluids, blood, and tissues. POM undergoes minimal degradation over time and does not leach chemicals or break down into toxic byproducts. Its robustness and hemocompatibility permit both long- and short-term use in the body.
Processing Versatility
POM offers versatile processing capabilities enabling complex medical device designs. It can be machined, molded, laser cut or welded with ease. This expands design possibilities and allows for intricately engineered components. POM’s good flow properties permit injection molding of intricate geometries with tight tolerances and smooth finishes. Laser cutting enables creating complex profiles and patterns at high precision and speed. Machining results in smooth surfaces with tight tolerances. Welding produces strong, hermetic seals ideal for implant housings.
These attributes facilitate manufacturing complex devices from a single material. Multi-shot and 2K injection molding can integrate various functional elements. Secondary processing like coating, plating or insert molding bonds non-polymer components. Overall, POM processing delivers robust, precise single-use devices and implants along with reusable equipment requiring sterilization.
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