Originally Published MPMN November
2004
INDUSTRY NEWS
Invibio and Upchurch
Scientific Expand the Availability of Polymer
Analee
Zelaya
 |
| Invibio’s PEEK-Classix polymer can be processed through molding, extrusion, machining, and other conventional techniques that allow medical device OEMs design options and flexibility. |
Exhibiting qualities of strength, stiffness, and toughness, PEEK-Classix polymer
is used in implant applications in which blood or tissue contact occurs for
less than 30 days. The material’s manufacturer, Invibio Biomaterial
Solutions (Greenville, SC; www.invibio.com),
has entered into an agreement with Upchurch Scientific Inc. (Oak Harbor,
WA; www.upchurch.com),
a manufacturer of medical fittings, tubings, and accessories. Upchurch can now
provide PEEK-Classix polymer directly to its customers.
The alliance benefits customers and both companies. Getting materials certified
sometimes can take many months, notes Michael Callahan, president of Invibio.
Therefore, the reduction in development time and the cost associated with biocompatibility
testing and regulatory approvals will be good for consumers. “Our in-house
tubing extrusion, molding, and machining of [PEEK-Classix polymer] takes the
expense and time-consuming hassle of [obtaining] USP Class VI and ISO 10993
material certification out of our customer’s development cycle,” explains
Mike Bailey, vice president of research, development, and sales for Upchurch
Scientific. Furthermore, Invibio should see its customer base and distribution
channel increase. The same holds true for Upchurch Scientific, which now offers
additional material and design solutions.
Invibio also offers PEEK-Optima polymers that are used for “long-term implementation
in the human body,” says Callahan. Industrial-grade PEEK is supplied by
its parent company, Victrex.
Copyright ©2004 Medical Product Manufacturing News
