Preventing Fluid Seal Leaks From Device Motion
The relationship between motion and sealing for thermoplastic elastomers.
Medical Fluid Seals That Bear Forces From Repeated Connecting or Closing Motion
Every sealing application that requires thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is different. Motion and abrasive forces can introduce an extra parameter to consider when designing seals. Enplas considers every parameter of the sealing design to ensure that your application is precise and effective.
See the examples below to gain insight into how motion and sealing affect TPE fluid seals.
Motion Example: Parts Moving Into the TPE Fluid Seals
TPE are ideal when interfacing with laboratory instruments or devices for fluid introduction, such as syringes, pipettes, lures, and needles. As the TPE engages, it conforms around the inlet. Some applications may incorporate multiple inlet ports for larger throughput. Accurately positioning multiple inlet ports on a sealing interface and its bonding component for robust mass production require delicate manufacturing expertise. A streamlined collaboration between tool design, tool making, and injection molding processes is key for rapid development.
Motion Example: Component Affecting the TPE Seal by Screwing or Clutching Motions
TPE can create a tight seal in applications where twisting or gripping motions are commonplace (e.g., reagent containers). This pulling and tugging motion can result in tearing or peeling the TPE fluid seal. In these situations, it is crucial to incorporate measures to keep the TPE fluid seal intact despite the wear and tear placed on it. That’s why mechanical features specially designed to prevent misalignment from motion should be considered in the TPE fluid seal’s development. Such features can be incorporated into the TPE fluid seal itself, or they can be added as gripping and blocking features of the bonding.