Polymers, Blends and Alloys
Custom compounds for minimally invasive devices require precision feeding, melting and dispersion of polymers and additives to achieve a homogenous blend suitable for applications such as intravascular catheters. All compounding is performed on twin screw extruders with processing capabilities suitable for a wide range of base polymers.
| Category | Class | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Specialty | Polyolefins | LDPE, HDPE, LLDPE, PP |
| Styrenics | PS, SAN, ABS, HIPS | |
| Vinyls | PVC, EVA | |
| Engineering | Polyamides | Nylon 6, 6/6, 6/10, 6/12, 11, 12, Amorphous |
| Polyesters | PET, PBT, PETG | |
| Acetals | Copolymer, Homopolymer | |
| Thermoplastic Elastomers | PU, PEBA, COPE | |
| Polycarbonate | ||
| Performance | High Temperature | PEEK, PES, PPS, PSU, LCP |
| Fluoropolymers | FEP, PVDF, ETFE |
Custom compounding may include blending of two commercially available polymers to achieve hybrid properties not available from any single resin. Examples include the blending of HDPE and LDPE to achieve intermediate durometers, or nylon and urethane to achieve a balance of lubricity and elasticity. Additionally, polymers may be blended with specialized additives for enhanced properties to achieve specific functional requirements.