Achieving More Precise Fluid Dispensing: How Automation Can Help

A new series of automated fluid dispensing systems combines fast and simple programming to produce better precision.

Kristopher Sturgis

As medtech devices and components continue to shrink to meet demands, the need for precision has never been greater. While almost half of medical device makers still use manual dispensing technology, the idea of precise liquid dispensing through automation is becoming more  available through Nordson EFD's new series of automated fluid dispensing systems.

The systems debuted last month at MD&M West in Anaheim, showcasing the technology's new features, including the integration of vision and laser height sensing with closed-loop encoding to provide a completely automated system with enhanced dispensing capabilities, according to a press release from the company.

The system consists of the Pro, the E, and the EV series, all designed to help users benefit from faster cycle times, reduced manufacturing and ownership costs, and the flexibility to use one system in a variety of different production areas. The company feels that the PRO series is the first of its kind to offer advanced capabilities and precision in an affordable and simple to use package.

"The Nordson EFD PRO Series is the only 'desktop' automated dispensing system to provide such advanced technologies," says Kelvin Fernandez, Global Product Line Manager for the technology at Nordson EFD. "Nordson EFD PRO Series caters for the gap between the conventional 'desktop automation' and the in-line 'factory automation' systems, by providing our customers with the ability to meet the higher demands in precision dispensing, while also keeping the cost of ownership low."

The technology utilizes a smart vision CCD camera to capture detailed component part images before converting them into high resolution digital files to simplify the process of tedious programming. The vision system is also integrated with Nordson EFD's new Dispensemotionsoftware that has been specially designed for precise fluid dispensing, making tasks like important and converting DXF, CAD, and Excel files much simpler. The technology even utilizes true three-dimensional motion control, allowing for simple programming of dots, lines, circles, arcs, compound arcs, and other complex patterns.

For years the medtech industry has been limited in its ability to apply adhesives and other liquids through manual dispensing technologies. Now the industry is slowly turning toward automation through various innovative methods, from jetting to other non-contact dispensing method. All of these methods are being examined in an effort to enhance precision, as well as provide a tool that can dispense fluids into tiny, hard to to reach places.

"The reception has been overwhelming," says Fernandez. "It's very welcoming for users who not only say the PRO series has helped provide a solution to past dispensing issues, but also helps with process control and increased 1st pass quality."

For now, the PRO series is currently commercially available, and has already been sold and made an impact within the medtech industry. Company officials believe the increased functionality combined with simple programming can make this technology one of the most efficient and effective fluid dispensing system currently available.

Kristopher Sturgis is a contributor to Qmed and MPMN.

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