Sterile Knob Covers Molded of Radel® PPSU Deliver Exceptional Sterilizability and Toughness

Prescott's Manufacturing Inc.'s new line of sterile knob covers for surgical microscopes are made of Radel® R-5100 polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) resin from Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, for exceptional autoclavability and toughness. The high-performance thermoplastic also delivers more efficient and faster processing than the incumbent thermoset material.

The knob covers are extensions of the microscope handle and are used to manipulate the microscope during surgery. The reusable covers come in repeated contact with medical personnel and must be sterilized after each procedure. Radel PPSU resin withstands repeated autoclaving - up to 1,000 cycles - while maintaining its toughness and impact resistance.

"We evaluated a range of resins and found that Radel PPSU was superior in terms of autoclavability," said Philip Schloesser, Engineer for Prescott's Manufacturing.

By tapping into its expertise in injection molding, Prescott's hoped to gain improved manufacturing efficiencies. Injection molded Radel PPSU provides greater productivity than competitive thermosets, boasting a 20-sec cycle time. The PPSU resin also offers good processing stability, low shrinkage, and a tight-tolerance fit to closely match the mating component. Another key feature is the material's high-quality feel and surface appearance which lends the part a more premium look.