Suited for volume production, a PLC-controlled stent-crimping machine provides process flexibility. The Model RHN enables a sequence of diameter- or force-controlled steps to be defined in the selected recipe. Progression of steps can be automatic with programmable delays or programmed to wait for a user to press the index button or footswitch. In addition, each recipe may consist of 20 steps, and up to 50 recipes can be stored in the PLC. At the core of the system is the High-Force Twin-Cam radial compression station. Hardened stainless-steel dies form a cylindrical opening that ranges in diameter from 0 to 60 mm. A stepper motor provides power to open and close the compression station, an integrated encoder measures the diameter of the opening, and a force transducer measures the actuating force.

Blockwise Engineering LLC
Phoenix, AZ, 602/954-7703