A collaboration involving MicroCare Medical, New Britain, CT, a supplier of advanced cleaners, carrier additives, coatings, and lubricants, and Dow Corning, Midland, MI, supplier of silicones and siliconbased technology, has resulted in the availability of the first calibrated and ready-to-use line of silicone lubricants for design engineers and manufacturers. Duraglide Siloxane Lubricants are linear polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based, and are individually calibrated and mixed according to a customer’s needs using Dow Corning’s 360 Medical Fluids and a carrier fluid that quickly deposits the lubricant prior to evaporating, leaving a thin, uniform film of PDMS. The coating can be used on a variety of medical devices, such as needles, syringes, blades, or other devices that contact skin and require lubrication for better performance and patient comfort. The fluid is compatible with materials such as glass, metals, plastic and rubber, and can be applied using dipping, wiping, brushing, or sprays.

Silicone lubricants typically have been available in concentrate, requiring the engineer or manufacturer to mix and calibrate the fluid internally once the concentrate is purchased.

The Duraglide Siloxane Lubricant can be provided in any amount, from a few ounces up to 55 gal drums. Samples can also be provided to qualified users upon request, typically within 48 hours. In addition to materials compatibility, other benefits include nonflammable handling in storage and in use, reduced migration propensities, and simple equipment requirements for low- and high-volume part treatment.