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Design Solutions: Disposable water filters


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Disposable water filters

OEM in-line disposable filters remove bacterial pathogens from hospital water and provide a point-of-use solution for simple and instantaneous protection from waterborne infection. They can be used in showers and wash stations, as well as for rinsing and reprocessing of medical equipment. The 7-day filters deliver 0.2 mm bacterial retention grade filtration and withstand pressures to 4.1 bar. Constructed from virgin polypropylene in clean room facilities, in-line capsule filters deliver high flow rates and are individually tested for integrity.

Whatman Inc., 200 Park Ave., Suite 210, Florham Park, NJ 07932, (973) 245-8300, info.ims.ca/6176-254
Circle 254

Anti-microbial keyboard

InduMedical keyboard features Microban technology and protects against bacteria, yeast, mold, mildew, and fungi that cause stain, odors, and product degradation. Its active protection against microbes makes equipment easier to clean and keeps it cleaner and safer between cleaning. Foil-covered short travel keyboard uses Omron mechanical switches for tactile feedback and comfortable operation. The chassis is an insulated housing, which ensures robustness and stability. The keyboard is offered as a compact version and with an integrated touchpad. Both PS/2 and USB interfaces are available.

InduKey North America, Suite 201, 6 Kasey Court, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (866) 463-8539, info.ims.ca/6176-255
Circle 255

Compressor and vacuum pump in same series

A series of compressor and vacuum pumps, the P13H22N3.12, uses a semi-hermetic scroll to completely seal the pumping section of the unit, allows cooling both scrolls. Cool operation lets the unit run at higher pressures and vacuums. The compressor unit develops up to 60 psig (4 barg) from a displacement of 2 cfm (57 lpm). The vacuum versions develop up to 200-m torr ultimate. It comes with ac or dc motors. The scroll coating technology lets units run at volumetric efficiencies greater than 80%, or produce higher ultimate vacuums.

AirSquared, 3001 Industrial Lane #3, Broomfield, CO 80020, (303) 466-2669, info.ims.ca/6176-256
Circle 256

Bi-directional gaskets

Low-profile BeCu gaskets are available for stick-on and hook-on mounting. They offer EMI/RFI shielding effectiveness over 100 db attenuation, measure 0.06 to 0.15-in. high, and close gaps from 0.03 to 0.13-in. Stick-on mounting may be used at ambient temperatures from -67 to 300°F. One side of the hook-on gasket fits over the flange for additional mechanical security. For bi-directional applications they require only a low closing force and provide continual snag-free operation. An optional DiamondBack textured surface for high frequency applications is available.

Tech-Etch Inc., 45 Aldrin Road, Plymouth, MA 02360, (508) 747-0300, info.ims.ca/6176-257
Circle 257

Ultrafiltration cartridges

BioPak disposable ultrafiltration cartridges connect to the outlet of any Milli-Q, Direct-Q, or Synergy water-purification system as a final purification step, dispensing ultrapure water for up to three months without a loss of flow rate. The cartridges are typically used in cell culture, biochemistry, and molecular-biology applications. The company has validated the cartridges to warrant the production of pyrogen-free, RNase free, and DNase-free ultrapure water, while maintaining the resistivity and total organic carbon of the treated water.

Millipore Corp., 290 Concord Rd., Billerica, MA 01821, (978) 715-4321, info.ims.ca/6176-258
Circle 258

Centrifugal barrel machine runs quiet

A high-energy VC and VC8 Series centrifugal barrel finishing machine completes finishing cycles up to 30 times faster than rotary barrels and 15 to 25 times faster than vibratory machines. The machine puts out consistent finishes and can create isotropic surface patterns. With proper media selection the technology can also add compressive stresses to many surfaces improving the performance of that part. The VC and VC8 machines are equipped with four barrels spaced evenly on a heavy-duty turret. As the turret is rotated in one direction, the barrels rotate to the opposite direction effecting a 1:1 ratio. When the turret speed exceeds 60 rpm, the mass in the barrel is subjected to high compressive forces causing the work mass to slide to the furthest wall of the barrel and quickly producing a high polish or aggressive metal removal based on media selection.

Finishing Associates Inc., 1610 Republic Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006, (215) 953-1340, info.ims.ca/6176-259
Circle 259

Steam-thru device connects disposable to stainless equipment

The Steam-Thru II provides a sterile connection between disposable systems and stainless steel processing equipment. A repositionable valve extends steam-in-place capability to two cycles. The steam-on and steam-off function minimizes contamination concerns and increases operational efficiency. A 3-port design allows mounting it directly to hard-plumbed systems to create a sterile connection for single-use feeding, harvesting, and sampling systems. The connections have standard sanitary terminations and come in 0.75 and 1.5-in. tri-clamp. Hose barbs connect to 0.5-in. ID tubing.

Colder Products Inc, 1001 Westgate Dr., St. Paul, MN 55114, (800) 444-2474, info.ims.ca/6176-260
Circle 260

Dispenser works with collapsible tubes

The Autotube dispensing system makes use of all the material in collapsible “toothpaste” tubes. Dispensing from such tubes can be messy and imprecise, making it difficult to get the right amount of material to the right location. The Autotube dispenser provides a quick tube connection within a cartridge protected by a high-pressure metal retainer and quick-snap cap. The retainer can be inserted in a gun handle with trigger switch or mounted on a stand and activated using a foot switch. Pull the gun trigger or hit the foot switch and the controller sends a timed air pulse to the tube. The even distribution of air pressure produces no mess or waste, precise deposits, higher production yields, and operator comfort.

I&J Fisnar Inc., 2-07 Banta Place, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410, (201)796-1477, info.ims.ca/6176-261
Circle 261

Medical-grade wire

SLT medical-grade wire combines high torque and straightness directly off the spool with a deviation of less than 0.020-in. in 12-in. (0.5 mm in 300 mm). Pre-straightened wire can be continuously processed with biocompatible coatings, including ethylene tetrafluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyperfluoroalkoxyethylene. It can be ground to small diameters. It is available in diameters from 0.003 to about 0.035-in. Testing over 10 months has not shown change in axial mechanicals or degradation of straightness.

Fort Wayne Metals, 9609 Indianapolis Rd., Fort Wayne, IN, 46809, (260) 747-4154, info.ims.ca/6176-262
Circle 262

Two-stage protection from ground-fault interrupter

SmartLockPro GFCI complies with UL's latest GFCI requirements. It's based on the lock-out feature of Leviton's original SmartLock GFCI, and has two-stage protection against ground fault shock hazard. The GFCI cannot be reset if its line and load terminals are miswired. When improperly wired, the green diagnostic LED indicator will turn ON to signal the wiring error. Once properly rewired it can be reset and its LED will function as a power indicator light, signaling power at the receptacle. If the device fails (stops providing ground fault protection) after it is installed, it cannot be reset. This tells users the device must be replaced.

Leviton Manufacturing Co., 59-25 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck, NY 11362, (800) 323-8920, info.ims.ca/6176-263Circle 263

Borescope sees where others can't

A micro borescope delivers a clear, bright image ideal for close-range inspection of electronic components, medical devices, and cast and machined parts, particularly where access is limited and the insertion point is only a few millimeters diameter. Micro Borescopes feature a focusing eyepiece and a fiber optic bundle that provides superb resolution. The scope is available in diameters as small as 0.02-in., and in standard lengths from 4-in. to 50 ft. All models in the Micro Borescope line are fully video and digital-adaptable, allowing for the viewing and recording of real-time or still images for reference.

Lenox Instrument Co. Inc., 265 Andrews Rd, Trevose, PA 19053, (800) 356-1104, info.ims.ca/6176-264
Circle 264

Slew bearing installs easily to cut costs

The Type RU Cross Roller Ring's configuration delivers an overall costs savings of up to 50% over competing designs. The bearing has mounting holes on both rings and it needs fewer parts and less labor. It consists of one-piece outer and inner ring construction, and requires no precise housing preparation or special fixtures. The design allows for easy installation with either inside or outside ring. A rigid construction ensures accurate and ultra-smooth motion. The bearing is available in 20 to 350 mm IDs and 70 to 540 mm ODs.

THK America Inc., 200 E. Commerce Dr., Schaumburg, IL 60173, (847) 310-1111, info.ims.ca/6176-265
Circle 265

Single channel controllers sport three outputs

The Series SD family of PID temperature controllers features the Tru-Tune+ adaptive control algorithm, which offers tighter control for demanding temperature or process tasks. The controller fine tunes thermal loops more precisely than typical auto-tune features, and provides stable control through set point and load changes, reducing scrap and rework even when conditions vary. The temperature controllers boast affordable pricing, performance, and advanced features for a range of applications. These single-channel controllers include a universal sensor input with up to three outputs that can be programmed for heat or cool-temperature control as well as process or deviation alarms.

Watlow Inc., 12001 Lackland Rd., St. Louis, MO 63146, (314) 878-4600, info.ims.ca/6176-266
Circle 266

Pneumatic valves and FRLs

The Maximatic line of pneumatic valves, FRLs, and components includes three and four-way, single and double solenoid valves, and three and four-way air-piloted valves. The devices are available in sizes from #10-32 to ½ in. with 0 to 150-psig pressure ranges, depending on valve and model. The FRLs come in port sizes from #10-32 to 1-in. with standard or high flow rates and 150-psig maximum input pressure.

Clippard Instrument Laboratory Inc., 7390 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45239, (513) 521-4261, info.ims.ca/6176-267
Circle 267

Masks protect metal during processing

SpeedMask is a UV-curable masking resin that replaces labor-intensive tape and solvent-based lacquer. The mask protects metal components such as orthopedic implants, implant hardware, surgical instruments, and other medical devices during dry or wet chemical surface treatment processing. The temporary SpeedMask protects from contamination from acids, alkalines, plating solutions, and ambient debris from air plasma spray. Once the treatment is complete, the mask can easily peel, dissolve in water, or burn off.

Dymax Corp., 51 Greenwoods Rd., Torrington, CT 06790, (860) 482-1010, info.ims.ca/6176-268
Circle 268

Presses assemble with up to 1kN force

Two electro-mechanical assembly presses (EMAPs) are used in applications that need between 200 and 1,000 N. The EMAPs use a servomotor to drive a ball screw in the press body to produce the linear pressing force. This arrangement is easy to monitor and control using standard encoder and CNC technology, and can be fitted easily with additional sensors like load cells or position probes to create sophisticated system capabilities. These units are widely used as the basis of intelligent assembly systems in the medical and other high-volume manufacturing industries.

Promess Inc., 11429 E. Grand River, Brighton, MI 48116, (810) 229-9334, info.ims.ca/6176-269
Circle 269

How to design flex circuits

The Flex Circuits Design Kit has everything needed to start incorporating flexible circuits into designs. Flex circuits have the same advantages as printed circuit boards and the capability for 3D configurations. The circuits provide compact, low-mass packaging that reduces space and weight up to 75%. The kit comes with a Start-up Guide that details design guidelines, specifications, and manufacturing procedures supported by detailed illustrations with descriptive call-outs. A Design Kit Sample Case has over 25 pieces of raw material and circuit examples. Understanding the nature of these pieces and how they interact when stacked-up can impact the quality of a flex circuit. A design must consider all parameters that involve bending and flexing including bend radii, dielectric thickness and type, foil weight, copper plating, number of layers, and number of flexures. The kit comes with an offer for a free mechanical sample of your design made with actual flex circuit stack-up materials.

Minco Inc., 7300 Commerce Lane, Minneapolis, MN 55432, (763) 586-2934, info.ims.ca/6176-270
Circle 270

Noncontact sensor measures to 120 mm

F90 Series Inductive Linear Sensors combine a microcontroller and inductive sensor technology for accurate and reliable noncontact position feedback for short-range measurements. The family comes in two versions and linear sensing ranges of 80, 104, and 120 mm. The basic version provides 0 to 10 Vdc or 4 to 20 mA outputs, while the enhanced version has a 4 to 20 mA output and two teachable PNP switch point outputs for end-of-range signaling.

Pepperl+Fuchs, 1600 Enterprise Parkway, Twinsburg, OH 44087, (330) 486-0001, info.ims.ca/6176-271
Circle 271

Clean room

A new 2000-sq. ft., Class 10000 Clean Room will provide customers with clean room assembly, testing, and packaging of both sterile and non-sterile medical devices. Peridot Corp. expanded its capabilities in the medical device assembly arena by announcing the addition of a Clean Room Division. The company is also seeking ISO 13485:2003 registration which requires additional documented procedures that consistently meet customer requirements and regulatory requirements applicable to medical devices and related services.

Peridot Corp., 1072 Serpentine Lane, Suite D, Pleasanton, CA 94566, (925) 461-8830, info.ims.ca/6176-272
Circle 272

Tooling, prototypes, and short runs

The tool room at Bazz Houston Co. is now equipped with state of the art EDM machines, surface grinders, and mills. This lets the company produce standard tooling to customer specification within 3 to 5 weeks. The prototype center has a full line of presses, shears, and power brakes and can make production orders within 2 weeks.

Bazz Houston Co., 12700 Western Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92841, (866) 434-2977, info.ims.ca/6176-273
Circle 273

Design a thermocouple online

Selecting a thermocouple just got easier thanks to an online configurator. It takes visitors through decisions required to configure and price a probe. Each step provides context-sensitive help. The graphics guide users through the process to build a probe with selected components. Choose a component incompatible with previous specifications and the software explains the problem and shows a valid alternative. The software generates a model number and price for the probe in minutes. Users select a quantity and receive a projected delivery time.

Omega Engineering Inc., One Omega Drive, Stamford, CT 06907, (203) 359-1660, info.ims.ca/6176-274
Circle 274

Kid friendly casters

A line of Smiles casters brings color and fun to medical furniture. The multicolored casters are assembled from a choice of components: housing, wheel bodies, treads, brakes, and faces. Matching doorknobs are also available. The wheel diameter of the caster is two inches and they are available with and without brakes and with various fitting options.

Tente Casters Inc., 2266 Southpark Dr., Hebron, KY 41048, (859) 586-5558, info.ims.ca/6176-275
Circle 275

Shaft collars hold tight face tolerance

Shaft collars are offered in multiple styles to fit shafts ranging from 1/8 to 6-in. in the inch series and 3 to 80mm in the metric series, in a variety of materials and finishes. Collars are single-point faced (indicated by the circular groove on the face) during the boring operation to insure perpendicularity of the face to the bore. Perpendicularity is important for alignment when collars are used as a bearing face, a mechanical stop, or for mounting other components.

Ruland Manufacturing Company Inc., 6 Hayes Memorial Dr., Marlborough, MA 01752, (508) 485-1000, info.ims.ca/6176-276
Circle 276

Force and torque measurements

A force and torque measurement products catalog includes dimensional drawings for grips and attachments, comparison charts, and product descriptions. New products include series CT cap torque testers, series SJR miniature force sensors, and several force and torque test stands.

Mark-10 Corp., 11 Dixon Ave., Copiague, NY 11726, (888) 627-5836, info.ims.ca/6176-277
Circle 277

Stepmotor and driver

SilverPak 17T bipolar stepmotors combine a stepmotor, microstepping driver, and controller, eliminating the need for external equipment. These 1.8°, NEMA-17 controllers come in RoHS-compliant versions upon request. Body lengths of 2.76, 2.99, and 3.31-in. produce up to 85 oz-in. of holding torque, depending on the stack size of motor. Custom windings (standard) maximize torque at desired speed. The SilverPak 17T features output currents of 0.1 to 1.5 A peak, input voltage of 7 to 28 Vdc, and 16 kBytes of on-board memory. There are two digital limit switches, one general-purpose input that allows manual positioning of the motor and one open collector output capable of outputting 100 mA. These controllers are capable of stand-alone operation. Low power dissipation eliminates the need for a heat sink.

Lin Engineering, 1990 Russell Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95054, (408) 919-0200, info.ims.ca/6176-278
Circle 278

Pneumatic Linear Slides Catalog

A catalog of linear slides includes a quick reference guide for selecting pick-and-place units, thrusters, and thin parts placers. Engineering data simplifies sizing and options selection while assuring that application performance requirements can be met. Models are offered in a broad range of sizes for lightweight to heavy-duty applications. Guide shaft diameters range from 0.25 to 1.5-in. with strokes to over 30-in. Cylinder bores range from 5/16 to 4-in.

Fabco-Air Inc., 3716 N.E. 49th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609, (352) 373-3578, info.ims.ca/6176-279
Circle 279

Electronic components catalog

The latest catalog from Mouser Electronics features 1,808 pages of the newest products and latest technologies from well over 325 premiere electronic component suppliers. To make it easier for customers to find products, the catalog includes section guides printed in four-color on heavier paper stock for quick identification of product categories. In addition, colored banners and logos quickly identify new products, new technologies, and new suppliers. New suppliers include Texas Instruments, ISSI (Integrated Silicon Solution Inc.), ON Semiconductor, PLX Technology, Power Integration, MEDER, NetPower, SchmartBoard, and SimpleTech, in addition to other new products from Freescale, AVX, Amphenol, Kemet, SST, Helicomm, Fluke, Molex, Murata, Digi International, Quickfilter Technologies, Sharp Microelectronics, and many more.

Mouser Electronics Inc., 1000 North Main St., Mansfield, TX 76063, (800) 346-6873, info.ims.ca/6176-280
Circle 280

Handheld orthopedic and spinal instruments

A brochure features manufacturing and prototyping services for orthopedic and spinal instruments. The company's no-play ratcheting screwdrivers let orthopedic surgeons get a solid and precise feel when tightening screws, connectors, or locking implant constructs. Custom solutions are available and the company is FDA registered and ISO 13485:2003 certified.

Gauthier Biomedical, 1235 North Dakota Dr., Suite G Grafton, WI 53024, (866) 546-0010, info.ims.ca/6176-281
Circle 281


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