When it comes to medical devices, it is very important for silicone rubber molding components to work properly and have a secure fit. Although it could be a matter of convenience, more often it’s a health and safety issue. The liquid silicone injection molding process can be used to create a wide range of medical keypad components and parts. The process allows for tight tolerances, variety in flexibility and the placement of holes and buttons as an integral part of the design. It’s sometimes hard to imagine the types of medical rubber molding applications that can be manufactured, simply because there are so many possibilities and variations in what the end result could be used for or look like. Here are just a few of the ways that silicone rubber molding can be used in medical keypads and components.
Tubing
Medical devices commonly contain silicone rubber tubing for two main purposes, either to carry liquids or gases from one place to the next. Tubing can connect a breathing apparatus, supply fluid to irrigate a wound or serve as part of a vacuum to remove fluid from a wound. In some cases, the tubing is clear or slightly tinted to allow medical personnel to see the progression of fluids or gases. In other cases, the tubing is colored to mask the transfer.
Plugs and Caps
Medical rubber molding is used to temporarily or permanently plug holes in devices to make them work or work more efficiently. For example, caps over blood or fluid samples make it safer to transport vials to the lab. Sinks and baths for physical therapy need drain plugs. Portable defibrillators need covers over metal parts to provide safe usage. Cases containing important medical equipment carried on ambulances and medical air flights need insulation between the seams to keep their interiors clean.
Device Keypads
Operating devices with medical rubber molding keypads is critical to many forms of new technology. For example, pump modules can deliver fluids and medications. X-ray machines can help to diagnose bone breaks, while and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems let doctors visualize internal injuries and abnormalities in the brain, muscles and soft tissues. Medical keypad molding helps to operate a variety of machines, from ventilators to laparoscopic video tools to incubators to nurse call buttons.
Connections
Another important function of medical rubber molding is as a connective piece or insulator in devices. The snug fit of syringes, connective parts and tubing for intravenous (IV) therapy infusion, catheter seals, plunger tips and insulators on laboratory equipment.
The uses of medical rubber molding and keypads is nearly limitless. To learn more about how SiTECH can manufacture new and replacement pieces for your traditional medical devices and cutting-edge technology, contact our office today at 757-887-8488.
