An example of where preeflow’s volumetric dispensing capability meets an industry need is in the application of adhesive in medical catheter manufacturing. Adhesives are used in the bonding of balloons and hubs to lumens, marker bands, and manifolds and connectors. This is an industry where accuracy and repeatability are of paramount importance in achieving a consistent, validated process. Since the nature of the assembly means that full automation is not always feasible, the bonding process can be manual. Catheters have small bond areas, and squeeze out or witness of excess adhesive would be unacceptable, so adhesive placement and amount need to be precise. The use of a preeflow eco-PEN, triggered by a foot pedal, gives the assembly operator more control of this intricate operation and confidence in the adhesive amount. The volumetric pumps dispense from the micro litre range on up, to an accuracy of +/- 1%independently of viscosity, while exhibiting low shear force on any media. They can dose continuously at rates up to 60ml per minute. The direction of flow can be reversed leading to clean cut off of the material, preventing drips or stringing.
