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Solvay’s Ixef® polyarylamide (PARA) is now globally available in rod stock from its channel partner, Drake Medical Plastics. Medical-grade Ixef PARA stock shapes can be machined to create appearance prototypes of single-use orthopedic surgical instruments, an alternative to the time and expense to produce soft tooling. Upon finalization of the part design, device manufacturers can leverage the performance properties of Ixef PARA resin using injection molding.
Drake Medical Plastics is currently the only supplier of Solvay Ixef PARA extruded rod stock, offered in three diameters: 19 mm, 30 mm and 77 mm in a neutral gray. Injection molding grades of Ixef PARA healthcare resins are also available from Drake Medical in seven additional gamma-stabilized colors. Ixef PARA is optimized for sterilization using high-energy gamma radiation without causing significant change in appearance or performance.
For single-use orthopedic instruments, injection-molded Ixef PARA can deliver performance comparable to that of traditional stainless steel but at up to a 450% lighter weight than metal, allowing OEMs to increase the number of tools in a surgical instrument kit. A smooth, resin-rich surface helps avoid the risk of glove tears from the glass fiber and minimizes moisture absorption. Further, Ixef PARA enables the incorporation of ergonomic elements, such as textures for improved grip, without the need for secondary operations.
Source: Solvay
