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  • 02
    Jul-2025
    Braid Reinforced Tubing: a key innovation in minimally invasive medical treatment
    In modern medical technology, minimally invasive surgery and interventional treatment have become important means of treating many complex diseases. In order to meet these high-precision and high-reliability applications, Braid Reinforced Tubings have gradually become key components in medical devices due to their excellent performance and flexibility. Braid Reinforced Tubings significantly improve the burst pressure resistance, column strength and torque transmission performance of the tube by embedding a metal or fiber braided structure between two layers of materials. They are widely used in coronary artery, electrophysiology, structural heart, peripheral, neurological, urinary, respiratory and other fields. The core advantage of Braid Reinforced Tubings lies in the combination of Kevlar reinforcement and stainless steel braiding. Kevlar fiber is widely used in aerospace, bulletproof equipment and other fields due to its extremely high tensile strength and lightweight properties. In Braid Reinforced Tubings, Kevlar fiber is used as a reinforcement layer, which not only improves the strength of the tube, but also enhances its flexibility and impact resistance. The stainless steel braiding further enhances the corrosion resistance and wear resistance of the tube, so that it can still maintain stable performance in harsh environments. In addition, the PTFE lining design of the Braid Reinforced Tubing has excellent chemical compatibility and low friction characteristics. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) as the inner layer material can effectively prevent the leakage of fluids or gases, and has extremely low permeability, which is suitable for high-purity product transportation, food processing, medical equipment and other fields. This lining design not only increases the service life of the pipe, but also reduces maintenance costs. Braid Reinforced Tubings are widely used in the medical field. The high precision, high torque control performance and good biocompatibility of medical braided tubes make them an important part of key medical equipment such as minimally invasive surgery and interventional treatment. For example, the Braid Reinforced Tubing combined with PI material (polyimide) and Kevlar fiber not only has excellent strength and temperature resistance, but also has good insulation performance and operational flexibility, which is suitable for a variety of medical devices such as guidewire lumens, puncture tools, and interventional sheaths. In coronary artery intervention, Braid Reinforced Tubings are used in key equipment such as balloon catheters and aortic valve delivery systems. Its high torque control performance and good burst pressure resistance enable it to navigate smoothly in complex vascular structures and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the operation. In addition, the application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in electrophysiological mapping catheters, steerable sheaths, guide catheters and other equipment also demonstrates its excellent performance under high precision and high reliability requirements. What are the structural components of Braid Reinforced Tubings?The structural components of Braid Reinforced Tubings usually include inner layer, middle layer and outer layer, each layer has its specific function and material selection. The following is the detailed structure composition: Inner layer (liner): The inner layer is in direct contact with the fluid and is required to have good media resistance and sealing properties to ensure that the fluid is not contaminated during transmission. Common inner layer materials include PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene), PEBAX (polyetherimide), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), PA (polyamide) and PE (polyethylene). Middle layer (reinforcement layer): The middle layer is the core part of the braided reinforced pipe, usually woven with metal wire (such as stainless steel wire, nickel-titanium alloy wire) or fiber (such as Kevlar®, LCP). This layer not only provides the required tensile strength and pressure bearing capacity, but also gives the pipe excellent bending flexibility and wear resistance. The braiding method can be 1-on-1, 1-on-2 or 2-on-2, and the braiding density is usually between 25 and 125 PPI, and can be continuously adjusted according to demand. Outer layer (protective layer): The outer layer is located on the outermost side, and its main function is to protect the reinforcement layer and the inner layer from being damaged by the external environment. Common outer layer materials include PEBAX, nylon, TPU, PET (polyester), polyethylene, etc., which have good wear resistance, weather resistance and UV radiation resistance. In addition, color identification, flame retardants and antistatic agents can be added to the outer layer to meet specific application requirements. Tie Layer: In some cases, in order to ensure the close bonding between the layers of materials, a tie layer is set between the inner layer and the reinforcement layer. The tie layer is usually made of special adhesives or coating materials to improve the bonding strength between the layers and the stability of the overall structure. Other optional structures: Development ring or development point: In some medical applications, in order to facilitate observation under X-ray or other imaging techniques, a development ring or development point is added to the pipe, which is usually made of platinum-iridium alloy, gold-plated or non-radio-transparent polymer materials. Reinforcement rib design: In some high-pressure or high-load applications, reinforcement ribs are added to the outside of the pipe to further improve its structural strength and stability. Wire-pull ring-controlled bending system: In applications where precise control of the bending angle is required, a wire-pull ring-controlled bending system can be designed to ensure that the pipe can maintain a stable shape and performance during use. What is the key role of the reinforcement material of the Braid Reinforced Tubing? The reinforcement material of the Braid Reinforced Tubing plays a vital role in improving its performance. The reinforcement material is usually located in the middle layer of the tube and is formed by braiding or winding to enhance the strength, toughness and compressive resistance of the tube. The following are the key roles of the reinforcement material and its detailed description: 1. Improve the compressive resistance:Braided reinforcement materials (such as stainless steel wire, Kevlar®, LCP, etc.) can significantly improve the compressive resistance of the pipe, so that it can still maintain structural stability under high pressure. For example, a braided reinforced catheter made of 304 steel wire and medical polymer materials can effectively prevent the catheter from folding and enhance its compressive resistance. In addition, the application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in high-pressure pipelines also shows that its reinforcement materials can withstand hydraulic pressures up to 5000 PSI. 2. Enhanced torsion control performance: The structural design of the braided reinforced material enables it to provide good torsion control performance. In medical devices such as aortic valve delivery systems and electrophysiological mapping catheters, the high torsion control performance of the Braid Reinforced Tubing ensures the stability and accuracy of the catheter in complex operations. In addition, the reinforcing material of the Braid Reinforced Tubing can also optimize its torsion performance by adjusting the braiding angle and density. 3. Prevent elongation and deformation:Braided reinforcement materials can effectively prevent the pipe from elongating or deforming during use. For example, in hydraulic systems, braided reinforced pipes can maintain the stability of their shape and avoid deformation due to material fatigue even under high pressure and dynamic loads. This feature is particularly important for medical devices that require precise control, such as neurovascular microcatheters and steerable sheaths. 4. Provide additional protection:Braided reinforcement materials not only enhance the mechanical properties of the pipe, but also provide it with additional physical protection. For example, in explosion-proof flexible connecting pipes, the middle reinforcement layer is usually composed of wire braided mesh or fiber reinforcement materials, which can effectively prevent external impact and wear and ensure the strength and stability of the connection. In addition, braided reinforcement materials can further improve their wear resistance and anti-slip properties by increasing the surface roughness of the pipe or adding an anti-slip coating. 5. Optimize material utilization:The structural design of braided reinforcement materials enables them to be optimized according to the force requirements of the components, thereby giving full play to their high strength advantages. For example, in composite materials, fiber braided meshes can be arranged in a directional manner according to the force direction of the component to improve the utilization efficiency of the reinforcement materials. This design not only improves the overall performance of the pipe, but also reduces the cost of using the material. 6. Adapt to a variety of working environments:The diversity and adjustability of braided reinforcement materials enable them to adapt to a variety of working environments. For example, in rubber hoses for nuclear power, the reinforcement layer is usually woven or wound with fiber materials. These materials have high strength and toughness, which can effectively enhance the tensile and compressive properties of the hose. In addition, braided reinforcement materials can also adapt to different working conditions by adjusting their weaving methods (such as plain weave, twill weave, cross weave, etc.), ensuring that the hose can operate stably in various complex environments. Application of Braid Reinforced TubingsBraid Reinforced Tubings are widely used in multiple medical fields due to their excellent performance and flexibility. Their high torque control performance and good biocompatibility make them an important part of key medical equipment such as minimally invasive surgery and interventional therapy. 1. Coronary intervention: Braid Reinforced Tubings play an important role in coronary intervention. Their high pressure resistance and good torsion control performance enable them to pass through complex vascular structures smoothly, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the operation. For example, Braid Reinforced Tubings are used in key equipment such as balloon catheters and aortic valve delivery systems. 2. Electrophysiological intervention: In electrophysiological intervention, the high torsion control performance and good conductivity of Braid Reinforced Tubings make them an ideal choice for electrophysiological mapping catheters. They can provide precise torque control to ensure stable navigation of the catheter in complex heart structures. 3. Structural cardiac intervention: Braid Reinforced Tubings are also widely used in structural cardiac intervention. Their high support force and good anti-bending performance enable them to effectively support the implantation of complex structures such as heart valves. 4. Peripheral vascular intervention: In peripheral vascular intervention, the high flexibility and good torsion resistance of Braid Reinforced Tubings enable them to adapt to complex vascular pathways and ensure the smooth progress of the operation. 5. Neurological intervention: The application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in neurological intervention is particularly prominent. Its high torsion control performance and good biocompatibility enable it to pass through complex neurovascular structures, ensuring the accuracy and safety of the operation. 6. Urinary intervention: In urological intervention, the high flexibility and good anti-bending performance of the Braid Reinforced Tubing enable it to pass through complex urinary system structures to ensure the smooth progress of the operation. 7. Respiratory intervention: The application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in respiratory intervention is also becoming more and more extensive. Its high flexibility and good anti-bending performance enable it to pass through complex respiratory tract structures to ensure the smooth progress of the operation. 8. Microcatheter: The application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in microcatheters is particularly prominent. Its high torsion control performance and good anti-bending performance enable it to pass through complex vascular structures to ensure the accuracy and safety of the operation. 9. Aortic valve delivery system: The application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in aortic valve delivery systems is also very extensive. Its high pressure resistance and good torsion control performance enable it to pass through complex vascular structures smoothly to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the operation. 10. Steerable sheath: The application of Braid Reinforced Tubings in steerable sheaths is also very prominent. Its high torsion control performance and good anti-bending performance enable it to pass through complex vascular structures, ensuring the accuracy and safety of the operation. 11. Guide catheters: Braid Reinforced Tubings are also widely used in guide catheters. Its high flexibility and good anti-bending performance enable it to pass through complex vascular structures to ensure the smooth progress of the operation. Why can Braid Reinforced Tubings become a key component in high-precision medical treatment?Braid Reinforced Tubings have become an indispensable and important product in modern medical treatment due to their excellent performance and flexible customized services. Its performance advantages are mainly reflected in the following aspects: High burst pressure resistance and column strength: Braid Reinforced Tubings significantly improve the pressure resistance of the tube by embedding a metal or fiber braided structure between two layers of material. This design enables it to maintain structural stability under high pressure and is suitable for applications that require high reliability. For example, in the medical field, Braid Reinforced Tubings are widely used in percutaneous coronary catheters, balloon catheters, neurovascular microcatheters and other devices to ensure their stability and safety in complex vascular structures. Excellent torque transmission performance: The middle layer of the Braid Reinforced Tubing is usually woven with metal wires or fibers, and this structural design gives it good torsion control performance. In medical devices such as aortic valve delivery systems and electrophysiological mapping catheters, the high torsion control performance of Braid Reinforced Tubings ensures the accuracy and stability of the catheter in complex operations. In addition, the braided reinforced polyimide tube (PI) provided by Zeus also has excellent torque transmission capabilities and is suitable for applications that require high flexibility and strength. Adjustable hardness: Braid Reinforced Tubings can adjust the material combination and braiding density according to customer needs to achieve customization of different hardness. This flexibility enables it to adapt to a variety of application scenarios, from soft catheters to rigid support structures, to meet specific needs. For example, PI braided tubes combine the high strength and temperature resistance of PI materials with the flexibility of braided structures to become a composite tube material with excellent twist control, flexibility, strength, and pushability. Short delivery time and stable production: Since the inner and outer layer materials can be produced independently, the production process of Braid Reinforced Tubings is more efficient and can shorten the delivery cycle. At the same time, its production environment usually meets the 10,000-level clean room standard to ensure that the product quality meets the requirements of medical device applications. This efficient production method not only improves production efficiency, but also reduces manufacturing costs, making the product more competitive in the market. Customized service: The customized service of Braid Reinforced Tubings is a highlight. Customers can choose the inner and outer layer materials and reinforcement materials such as PTFE, PI, PEBAX, TPU, PA, etc. according to specific needs to meet the needs of different application scenarios. For example, the braided reinforced polyimide tube (PI) and PI Glide™ tube provided by Zeus can adjust the number of nodes per inch (PPI) and the number of turns per inch (WPI) according to the specifications to meet different performance requirements. In addition, the customized service also includes adjustments in size, color, surface treatment, etc. to ensure that the product is perfectly adapted to specific application scenarios. Post-processing: In order to further improve the performance and applicability of the product, the Braid Reinforced Tubing usually undergoes a series of post-processing treatments, such as tip molding, bonding, taper and other processes. These treatments can enhance the connectivity and operability of the tube, making it more reliable in complex environments. For example, the inner and outer layers of the PI braided tube are both coated with an advanced dip coating process to ensure its good chemical compatibility and mechanical properties. The future development trend of Braid Reinforced Tubings is mainly reflected in the following aspects: Material innovation: With the development of new material technology, Braid Reinforced Tubings will use more high-performance fiber materials, such as aramid, carbon fiber, etc., to improve their lightweight and high-strength characteristics. At the same time, the application of environmentally friendly materials such as recyclable and biodegradable materials will also increase, driving the industry towards sustainable development. Technological progress: The application of intelligent manufacturing and automation equipment will improve production efficiency and product quality. The development of 3D braiding technology will enhance the production capacity of braided sleeves with complex structures and broaden their application scenarios. In addition, the application of intelligent materials, such as shape memory alloys and intelligent textiles, will give braided catheters the ability to adapt and self-repair, improving their reliability and service life under extreme conditions. Expansion of application fields: The application fields of Braid Reinforced Tubings will be further expanded, especially in the fields of medical equipment (such as endoscopes and catheters), new energy (wind and solar energy equipment), etc. With the acceleration of urbanization and the popularization of the concept of smart city construction, the demand for intelligent management of underground pipe network systems is increasing, which will bring new development opportunities for Braid Reinforced Tubings. Intelligence and sustainability: With the development of Internet of Things technology, Braid Reinforced Tubings will integrate more sensors and communication modules to realize real-time monitoring and data upload of pipeline status, and provide more accurate information support for urban pipe network maintenance. At the same time, with the promotion of the concept of circular economy, the production of Braid Reinforced Tubings will use more recyclable materials to reduce the impact on the environment. Customized service: In the future, the customized service of Braid Reinforced Tubings will be more flexible to meet the needs of different application scenarios. For example, by optimizing the material formula and manufacturing process, reinforced plastic pipes will have better mechanical properties and chemical stability to adapt to more demanding application environments. In addition, with the strengthening of personalized consumption trends, braided reinforced pipes will provide more customized services, such as special specifications and functional customization, to meet the needs of different occasions. With the continuous advancement of materials science and engineering technology, the performance and application range of Braid Reinforced Tubings will be further expanded. In the future, the combination of Kevlar reinforcement and stainless steel braiding will be closer to meet the needs of higher strength and lighter weight. At the same time, the design of PTFE lining and high-pressure pipes will also be more intelligent to meet the high-precision requirements under complex working conditions. In the medical field, Braid Reinforced Tubings will continue to promote the development of minimally invasive surgery and interventional treatment, especially in high-precision fields such as neurovascular and cardiovascular. In the industrial field, its application in high-pressure, corrosion-resistant, and impact-resistant scenarios will continue to expand, providing strong support for intelligent manufacturing and green manufacturing.
  • 01
    Jul-2025
    Medical multi-layer catheters: high-precision multi-layer co-extrusion technology leads the innovation of medical consumables
    With the rapid development of minimally invasive surgery and interventional treatment, medical catheters, as key medical devices, have increasingly higher performance requirements. Recently, a medical multi-layer catheter launched by a certain company has become the focus of industry attention with its innovative multi-layer co-extrusion tube technology and optimized polymer material combination. Through precise multi-layer structural design, this product takes into account biocompatibility, mechanical strength and operational performance, providing safer and more efficient solutions for clinical use. Medical multi-layer catheters are precision medical consumables made of two or more layers of polymer materials through a co-extrusion process. They are widely used in medical scenarios such as minimally invasive surgery, interventional treatment, infusion and drainage. Compared with traditional single-layer catheters, their multi-layer structural design can optimize performance for different clinical needs, taking into account key indicators such as biocompatibility, flexibility, and pressure resistance. Breakthrough in multi-layer co-extrusion technology to create high-precision medical consumablesAgainst the background of the rapid development of modern medical technology, medical catheters, as key medical devices, have increasingly higher performance requirements. Traditional single-layer catheters are often difficult to meet multiple requirements such as biocompatibility, mechanical strength and operational performance at the same time due to their single material. Medical multi-layer catheters using multi-layer co-extrusion technology have successfully broken through this technical bottleneck through innovative production processes and material combinations. Advanced multi-layer co-extrusion production processMulti-layer co-extrusion technology is a precision extrusion molding process, the core of which is to extrude two or more polymer materials through a co-extrusion die simultaneously to form a tube with a multi-layer structure. The key advantages of this process are: 1. Accurate layer thickness control: Through a precise extrusion control system, the thickness of each layer of material can be accurately controlled, and the error can be controlled within the range of ±0.0127mm. This high-precision dimensional control ensures the stability and consistency of catheter performance. 2. Optimal combination of material properties: Different material layers can be designed specifically according to their characteristics: The inner layer material (such as HDPE high-density polyethylene, PU polyurethane) mainly focuses on biocompatibility to ensure safety when in contact with human tissue or body fluids. These materials are low in toxicity and low in allergenicity, which can effectively reduce tissue reactions. The outer layer materials (such as Pebax polyether block amide, nylon) focus on mechanical properties, providing excellent tensile strength (up to 50MPa or more) and wear resistance (friction coefficient can be as low as 0.1), ensuring the passability and durability of the catheter in complex vascular environments. Strong interlayer bonding: Through molecular-level material modification technology and special co-extrusion process parameter control, seamless bonding between layers of materials is achieved. After testing, the interlayer peeling strength can reach more than 5N/cm, effectively avoiding the risk of stratification during use. Breakthrough technical advantages 1. Ultra-precision dimensional control: Using high-precision gear pump metering system and laser diameter gauge for real-time monitoring, ensure that the inner and outer diameter tolerances of the catheter are controlled at an ultra-high precision level of ±0.0127mm (about 1/2000 inches). The concentricity exceeds 90%, which is much higher than the industry average of 80%, significantly improving the push performance and operating feel of the catheter. 2. Excellent combination of mechanical properties: Through the synergistic effect of different materials, the flexibility of the catheter is maintained (the bending radius can be as small as 3mm) and sufficient pushing force is ensured (the axial strength is increased by more than 30%). The anti-kink performance is significantly improved, and it can withstand more than 1000 cycles in the 180-degree bending test without permanent deformation. 3. Reliable quality assurance: The online defect detection system is used to monitor the surface quality and internal structure of the pipe in real time. The reliability of clinical use is ensured through strict burst pressure testing (can withstand 10-20 atmospheres) and fatigue testing (5000 pushing cycles). Clinical application value This high-precision catheter based on multi-layer co-extrusion technology has shown significant advantages in clinical practice: 1. In the field of neurointervention, the ultra-thin tube wall (minimum 0.1mm) and excellent flexibility enable the catheter to reach smaller vascular branches. 2. In cardiovascular intervention, the optimized material combination not only ensures sufficient pushing force, but also reduces the risk of vascular damage. 3. In tumor interventional treatment, the multi-layer structure design can integrate the drug sustained release function and realize the integration of treatment functions. With the advancement of material science and precision manufacturing technology, multi-layer co-extruded catheters are developing towards thinner wall thickness, higher performance and more intelligent direction, providing safer and more effective solutions for minimally invasive medical treatment. This technological breakthrough not only improves the performance standards of medical consumables, but also promotes technological progress in the entire field of interventional treatment. Excellent performance meets the needs of high-end medical equipmentAs a high-end consumable in the field of modern medical technology, medical multi-layer catheters are redefining the industry standards for interventional treatment with their excellent performance parameters. The following is a detailed analysis of its breakthrough performance from four key dimensions: 1. The clinical value of ultra-high concentricity (>90°) Technical implementation: The six-axis laser measurement system is used for real-time calibration, combined with an adaptive extrusion control algorithm to ensure that the radial thickness deviation of the tube is less than 5μm, achieving an industry-leading concentricity of >90°. Clinical advantages: 40% improvement in vascular permeability: In 0.014-inch microcatheter applications, the push resistance is reduced to 60% of that of traditional catheters Reduce endothelial damage: In vitro tests show that the endothelial cell shedding rate is reduced by 35% Precise positioning capability: 0.1mm position control accuracy can be achieved in neurointerventional surgery 2. Revolutionary flexible and anti-kink performance Structural innovation: Three-layer gradient modulus design: 50A Shore hardness of the inner layer ensures permeability, 72D of the middle layer provides support, and 90A of the outer layer ensures push force Spiral reinforcement structure: Nano-scale glass fiber reinforced network embedded in the PEBAX matrix Performance parameters: Bending fatigue life: Passed >5000 cycle tests at a radius of 3mm (5 times the ISO 10555 standard requirement) Anti-kink angle: The minimum curvature to maintain patency at 180° is 2.5mm Torque transmission efficiency: Distal rotation response delay <0.5 seconds/100cm 3. Excellent chemical corrosion resistance Material solution: Inner layer: cross-linked HDPE, crystallinity increased to 75%, iodine contrast agent permeability increased by 3 times Outer layer: fluorinated modified Pebax, tolerance to disinfectants such as ethanol and glutaraldehyde extended to 200 hours Verification data: After immersion in 37℃ contrast agent for 30 days, tensile strength retention rate>95% After 10 cycles of ethylene oxide sterilization, surface contact angle change<5° 4. Comprehensive biocompatibility guarantee Certification system: Passed ISO 10993 full set of biological evaluation (including cytotoxicity, sensitization, implantation test, etc.) Obtained USP Class VI and EU EP compliance certification Special treatment process: Plasma grafting technology: construct hydrophilic PEG molecular brushes on the PU surface Nanoscale surface polishing: Ra value is controlled below 0.05μm, reducing platelet adhesion by 50% Clinical verification: In the 72-hour continuous contact test, the survival rate of L929 cells is >90% The 28-day subcutaneous implantation test showed that the inflammatory response score was only 0.5 (1-4 scale) Synergistic effect of performance integration The combination of various performance parameters is optimized through the DOE (experimental design) method to achieve: The best balance between pushing force and flexibility (pushing efficiency coefficient reaches 0.85) Synergistic improvement of mechanical strength and biosafety Uniform guarantee of immediate performance and long-term stability Multi-layer material combination, adaptable to diverse clinical scenarios Application scenarios Material architecture Key performance parameters Clinical advantages Cardiovascular interventional catheters Outer layer: 72D Pebax® 7233 - Flexural modulus: 280MPa Push force transmission efficiency ↑35% Middle layer: 304 stainless steel woven mesh (16-32 picks/inch) - Burst pressure: >25atm Calcified lesion pass rate ↑28% Inner layer: HDPE (0.955g/cm³) - Friction coefficient: μ<0.15 Stent positioning error <0.3mm - Thrombosis reduction by 40% Minimally invasive neurological catheters Outer layer: PA12 nylon (72D) - Flexural stiffness: 0.08N/mm² Vasospasm incidence ↓60% Transition layer: TPU (80A) - Protein adsorption: <5ng/cm² Distal arrival time ↓40% Inner layer: Ultra-soft PU (35A) - Vascular permeability: 92% (<2mm) Magnetic navigation compatibility Platinum-iridium alloy marker tape High-pressure injection catheters Outer layer: Reinforced nylon 12 (30% glass fiber) - Burst pressure resistance: >600psi Development clarity ↑30% Middle layer: ETFE barrier film - Injection rate resistance: 7ml/s Contrast agent penetration <0.01g/m²/day Inner layer: XL-HDPE - Surface roughness: Ra<0.1μm Barium sulfate marker tape Innovative technologies Thermosensitive material (Pebax® series) - Hydrophilic coating maintenance: >90 days Body temperature adaptive hardness Shape memory alloy (Nitinol) - Antibacterial rate: >99.9% Autonomous bending navigation Plasma grafted hydrophilic coating - Drug controlled release: 0.5μg/mm²/day Anti-infection/anti-thrombosis Degradable material (PLGA+PCL) Environmentally friendly and absorbable Table description: Material architecture: Display the typical three-layer structure design and special functional layer of each application scenario; Performance parameters: Quantify key mechanical, chemical and biological performance indicators; Clinical value: Use arrows to clearly mark the performance improvement/reduction (↑↓); Innovative technology: List breakthrough technologies across scenarios separately. What should I pay attention to when choosing a medical multi-layer catheter? The selection of medical multi-layer catheters needs to comprehensively consider multiple dimensions such as clinical needs, material properties, production processes and regulatory requirements. The following is a professional selection guide: 1. Matching clinical needs (1) Adaptation to surgical type Cardiovascular intervention: Prioritize high pushability (axial strength > 50N) and anti-bending (minimum bending radius ≤ 3mm) Neurointervention: Select ultra-flexible catheters (bending stiffness ≤ 0.1N/mm²) and low-friction surfaces (μ ≤ 0.15) Tumor embolization: Both visualization (including tungsten/barium sulfate markers) and drug-carrying capacity are required (2) Anatomical path characteristics Vascular tortuosity: Anti-kink catheters are required for high-bending scenarios (torsion angle > 270° without breaking) Lumen diameter: Match catheter specifications (such as 2.0-3.5Fr commonly used in coronary arteries) Lesion nature: Calcified lesions require a reinforced outer layer (such as a metal braided layer) 2. Material performance evaluation (1) Biocompatibility certification Must comply with ISO 10993 series standards (at least pass cytotoxicity, sensitization, and irritation tests) Long-term implants need to supplement chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity assessments (2) Mechanical performance parameters Key indicators Compliance requirements Test standards Burst pressure ≥3 times the operating pressure ISO 10555-4 Tensile strength ≥50MPa (nylon-based) ASTM D638 Bending fatigue life >5000 times (3mm radius) ISO 25539-2 Chemical stability verification Disinfectant resistance (strength retention rate after ethylene oxide/γ-ray sterilization ≥ 90%) Anti-contrast agent permeability (weight change rate after immersion for 24 hours ≤ 1%) 3. Structural design analysis (1) Interlayer bonding process Co-extrusion bonding type: suitable for conventional applications (peel strength ≥ 3N/cm) Mechanical interlocking type: used in high-voltage scenarios (such as woven mesh embedding layer) (2) Special functional layer Development marking tape: tungsten powder content ≥90% (X-ray visibility) Hydrophilic coating: contact angle ≤20° (maintenance time ≥30min) Antibacterial coating: silver ion release rate 0.1-0.5μg/cm²/day 4. Production process control (1) Dimension accuracy verification Inner diameter tolerance: ±0.025mm (precision vascular catheter requirement) Concentricity: ≥90% (laser diameter gauge online detection) (2) Cleanliness requirements Production environment: at least Class 8 (ISO 14644-1) Particle contamination: ≤100 particles/mL (≥0.5μm) Why are medical multilayer tubes more advantageous than single-layer tubes?The core advantage of medical multilayer tubes over traditional single-layer tubes lies in their composite structure design concept. Through the precise combination of different functional materials, the performance limitations of a single material have been broken through.1. Performance design breakthrough Complementary material properties Single-layer tube: limited by the performance ceiling of a single material (such as PU is flexible but not strong enough, nylon is strong but too rigid) Multilayer tube: The inner layer uses biocompatible materials (such as HDPE, cytotoxicity ≤ level 1)The outer layer uses mechanical reinforcement materials (such as Pebax 7233, tensile strength ≥50MPa)Functional layers can be added to the middle layer (such as antistatic carbon fiber mesh, surface resistance ≤10⁶Ω) Gradient modulus design Through a structure of more than 3 layers to achieve a gradual change in hardness (such as 35A→55D→72D), the catheter: Maintains push rigidity at the proximal end (bending modulus ≥1GPa)Achieve ultra-flexibility at the distal end (bending stiffness ≤0.1N/mm²) 2. Comparison of key performance parameters Performance indicators Typical value of single-layer tube Typical value of multilayer tube Increase Burst pressure 8-12atm 20-30atm 150%↑ Anti-kink resistance 180° bending easily collapses 360° bending is still smooth 100%↑ Friction coefficient 0.25-0.35 (dynamic) 0.08-0.15 (hydrophilic coating) 60%↓ Fatigue life 500-1000 cycles 5000+ cycles 400%↑ 3. Clinical scenario adaptability Cardiovascular interventionStainless steel braided reinforcement layer makes the torsion transmission efficiency reach 95% (single-layer tube only 60%)When passing through calcified lesions, the push force loss of the multi-layer tube is reduced by 40% Neural interventionUltra-thin inner layer (0.05mm thick PU) reduces the incidence of vascular spasmGradual stiffness design shortens the time to reach the distal blood vessel by 30% High-pressure injectionETFE barrier layer can withstand 7mL /s injection rate (single-layer tube limit 3mL/s)Contrast agent permeability <0.1μg/cm²/h (single-layer PE tube up to 5μg/cm²/h) 4. Special function integration Structural functionalizationDevelopment marker band: tungsten powder content ≥90% (X-ray visibility increased by 3 times)Drug sustained release layer: Paclitaxel loading can reach 5μg/mm² Intelligent response characteristicsThermosensitive material: hardness automatically reduced by 30% at 37°CMagnetic navigation compatibility: guide layer containing NdFeB particles 5. Failure mode optimization Anti-delamination designMolecular-level bonding technology makes interlayer peeling strength ≥5N/cmElectron beam cross-linking treatment improves interface bonding by 300% Improved durabilityMulti-layer structure disperses stress, crack propagation rate reduced by 80%Braided reinforcement layer extends fatigue life to 100,000 pulsations Under high-pressure injection of contrast agent, which multi-layer tube structure is the most leak-proof?In medical scenarios where high-pressure contrast agent injection is required, the key to ensuring that the catheter does not leak is to use a special multi-layer composite structure design. This design builds multiple protective barriers through the synergistic effect of different functional materials. Core anti-leakage structure design Five-layer composite architecture (from outside to inside): Outer layer: high-strength composite materials are used to provide mechanical protection and withstand the strong impact during injectionReinforcement layer: metal braided structure, which effectively limits the expansion and deformation of the catheterBarrier layer: special fluorinated material film, forming the main anti-permeability barrierStabilization layer: specially treated polymer with excellent chemical corrosion resistanceInner layer: ultra-smooth surface treatment to reduce contrast agent residue Key manufacturing processes: Precisely controlled extrusion temperature to ensure that the barrier material forms an ideal crystalline structureUse radiation cross-linking technology to enhance material stabilityInnovative interlayer bonding process to achieve each layer Firmly bonded Performance advantages Barrier performance:Compared with traditional single-layer catheters, the permeability is significantly reducedMulti-layer synergy makes the permeability lower than that of conventional three-layer structures Mechanical properties:Maintain excellent dimensional stability under high pressureAnti-swelling performance far exceeds that of ordinary catheters Safety performance:All layers of materials have passed strict biocompatibility testsSpecial inner layer design avoids adsorption of contrast agent components Clinical application value This structural design is particularly suitable for:Examinations that require rapid injection of high-concentration contrast agentsLong-term indwelling contrast cathetersTreatment scenarios with strict requirements on permeability Why is 90% concentricity the key to catheter performance? In the field of minimally invasive surgery and interventional therapy, catheter concentricity is the gold standard for determining its performance. Concentricity of more than 90% can not only improve surgical safety, but also optimize patient prognosis. 1. Optimization of fluid dynamics performance (1) Laminar flow maintenance effect High concentricity catheters (such as cardiovascular interventional catheters) can reduce turbulence and reduce the risk of thrombosis Contrast agent delivery is more uniform, avoiding vascular damage (pressure fluctuation <5%) FDA-compliant fluid efficiency is increased by 40% (2) High-pressure injection compatibility In scenarios such as CT angiography, 90% concentricity catheters can withstand an injection rate of 7mL/s Compared with ordinary catheters, the risk of contrast agent extravasation is reduced by 80% 2. Improved mechanical properties (1) Anti-bending ability (comparison of key indicators) concentricity Minimum bending radius Applicable scenarios 70% 5mm General infusion 90% 3mm Neurointervention 95%+ 2mm Peripheral vascular (2) Fatigue life 90% concentricity allows the catheter to have a life of 5,000 cycles at a bending radius of 3mm Compliant with ISO 10555 international standard 3. Clinical operation advantages (1) Precision medical application Tumor intervention: positioning error ≤ 0.1mmTAVI surgery: push force reduced by 30%Pediatric catheter: vasospasm reduced by 50% (2) Trend of AI-assisted surgery High concentricity catheters are more compatible with surgical robotsReal-time pressure sensing data is more accurate 4. Industry certification requirements Tests that must be passed: ASTM F2210 (US material testing standard) CE certification (EU Medical Device Directive) MDR 2017/745 (new EU regulation) 90% concentricity is the "golden critical point" for balancing performance and cost Below 90%: fluid disturbance and stress concentration are significantly aggravated Above 95%: marginal benefits decrease and cost index increases The 90-93% range can simultaneously meet the following: Excellent clinical performance Reasonable economy Reliable production stability Medical multilayer catheters are leading the technological innovation of minimally invasive interventional treatment with their innovative composite structure design and advanced material technology. By precisely combining 2-5 layers of polymer materials with different characteristics, this catheter successfully breaks through the performance limitations of traditional single-layer tubes and achieves a qualitative leap in key indicators such as burst pressure, bending fatigue life and surface lubricity. Its core advantages are reflected in three dimensions: in terms of clinical applicability, modular material combinations can perfectly adapt to diversified scenarios such as cardiovascular intervention, minimally invasive neurosurgery, and high-pressure angiography. For example, the metal braided reinforcement layer increases the push efficiency by 35%, and the ultra-soft inner layer reduces the incidence of vascular spasm by 60%; In terms of technological innovation, the integration of intelligent features such as temperature-sensitive materials and magnetic navigation compatible design enables the catheter to have environmental adaptability; in terms of medical economy, it not only directly shortens the operation time by 20-30 minutes, but also significantly optimizes the overall treatment cost through reusable design and reduced complication rate. With the application of cutting-edge technologies such as degradable materials, nanocomposite technology and AI-assisted design, medical multi-layer catheters are rapidly developing in the direction of intelligence and functionality, and are expected to promote the expansion of minimally invasive surgical indications by more than 40%, becoming an indispensable core device in the era of precision medicine.
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    Mar-2025
    Exhibition Preview: 2025 CMEF Medical Device Expo
    The highly anticipated 91st China International Medical Equipment (Spring) Fair—2025 Shanghai CMEF—is set to commence with great fanfare from April 8th to 11th, 2025, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Organized by the dedicated team at Reed Sinopharm Exhibition Co., Ltd., which is organized by Reed Sinopharm Exhibitions. CMEF has evolved since its inception in 1979 into a comprehensive platform that showcases the entire industry chain, introduces new products, facilitates procurement and trade, promotes brands, fosters scientific cooperation, and encourages academic exchanges. With "Innovative Technology Leading the Future" as its central theme, this edition of the expo is committed to propelling innovation and healthy development within the industry, guiding the medical device sector towards a more brilliant future. Ningbo Linstant and its five subsidiaries will be making a joint appearance at the 2025 CMEF. They will showcase their star products and technologies in their respective fields, demonstrating the group's comprehensive strength and innovative capabilities in the medical device industry. By participating in the CMEF, Linstant Group looks forward to engaging with industry peers, exploring future trends in medical technology, and advancing the medical industry as a whole. Event Details: Dates: April 8-11, 2025 Venue: National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) Booth Number: 7.1S22 Stay tuned for Ningbo Linstant's exciting showcase at the 2025 CMEF Medical Device Expo, and join us in witnessing the future of medical technology!