Rubber is a key component of medical equipment, and it can help make the difference between the success and failure of the sensitive processes that occur within the medical field. From surgical instruments to dialysis machines, rubber parts ensure that critical equipment functions effectively to eliminate medical complications.
Applications of Rubber in the Medical Field
Rubber is a crucial component of medical equipment, and it can help make the difference between the success and failure of sensitive processes in the medical field. Rubber parts, from surgical instruments to dialysis machines, ensure critical equipment functions effectively to eliminate medical complications.
Applications of Rubber in the Medical Field
The rubber products used in hospitals are wide and varied across the branches and fields of medicine. Rubber makes various products, from small items like surgical gloves to parts of more complex machines. Some of the applications of rubber in the medical field are:
- Implants: Rubber produces devices like cardiac pacemakers, arterial sphinx, and cosmetic implants. Its flexibility and biocompatibility make it suitable for these purposes.
- Drug Delivery Systems: Drug delivery devices are a new and evolving innovation made possible using rubber. They are placed in a patient’s body to release specific amounts of a substance into the body. The properties of medical rubber allow it to remain uncompromised from chemicals and safe for internal use. An example is the contraceptive device that methodically releases hormones for birth control and pacemakers.
- Medical supplies: Quite several supplies and devices within the medical field are made from rubber, such as surgical gloves, syringes, and tubes for transferring fluids, including blood, caps, stoppers, wheels, diaphragms, rubber cords, etc. Its flexibility also makes it the material for essential hospital products, like leg straps, prosthetic devices, and artificial skin. IV and catheter tubes are safe for use due to the properties of medical rubber.
- Laboratory instruments: Rubber parts are used in machines like the microscope and centrifuge to minimize vibrations to prevent errors in results and damage to the specimen. The rubber isolates the devices from each other and the pulse.
Properties of Medical Rubber
There are different types of rubbers in the medical field, and the material used depends on the application. Silicone and ethylene propylene fine monomers are the most commonly used for medical applications because they are less susceptible to cracking over time and are reasonably resistant to ozone exposure.
Medical equipment is designed and produced according to strict standards to ensure reliability and durability. Medical devices are naturally invasive, from syringes that probe in and around the body to implantable devices designed for long-term internal use. As such, one of the main properties of medical rubber is biocompatibility. Mechanical properties such as flexibility and resilience are also important, and rubber should be flexible enough to adapt to the sensitive internal environment of the body with as little discomfort as possible.
Medical equipment is subjected to harsh environments and sterilization techniques. They also come in contact with chemicals, drugs, and bodily fluids. Hence, materials used in medical rubber and equipment must be non-toxic and highly resist chemicals, heat, and pressure to remain uncompromised and reliable.
Importance of Rubber Parts in Medical Equipment
Vibration Control
Medical equipment that runs on motors or high voltage emits natural vibrations, which can be damaging to the equipment and uncomfortable for the patient. Rubber shock absorbers and vibration control products, such as mounts, can control the effect of this vibration.
Soundproofing Medical Equipment
Rubber absorbs sound, which some medical devices like a CT machine may produce. While noise may not be damaging, it can be discomforting.
Medical Rubber Seals
Rubber parts are vital for sealing. Medical devices consist of various parts connected; rubber seals work to prevent the entry or escape of gases and fluids and ensure that machines function correctly.
Improving Medical Equipment With Quality Rubber Products
These are just a few uses that rubber serves in the medical field. Rubber is an excellent material for use in the medical field. Its resistance to chemicals, heat, and sterilizers and its ability to work under pressure while being flexible and robust making it a vital part of a safe medical industry.
