Join us on the Med-Ex Podcast as we talk with Brett Lenz, Director of Engineering at Plastic Design Company (PDC). PDC is a specialty manufacturing company focused on precision injection molding and value-added assembly in support of medical device and life science customers. Their expertise includes the production of complex materials such as PEEK, PEBA and PEI within an ISO 13485:2016 quality system. For more information, visit plasticdesigncompany.comIn this episode, we explore PDC's capabilities in over-molding and insert molding of catheter tips, shedding light on advanced techniques reshaping the medical industry.From insights into PDC's establishment and medical molding prowess to discussions on the advantages of over-molding catheter tips directly onto shafts versus traditional methods, Brett provides valuable expertise. We uncover the nuances of molding materials, radiopacity, transition techniques, bonding methods, and challenges with curved or angled tips. Additionally, we delve into PDC's insert molding techniques, multi-component molding applications, and precision handling and automation strategies for scaling production. Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Brett Lenz | Director of Engineering | PDCAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing/ Business Development | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visitwww.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, our guest Andreas Perjus, the Chief Technology Officer of Optinova Group, provides exclusive insights into the company's cutting-edge advancements in extrusion techniques. Optinova, renowned as a global leader in medical and industrial tubing, unveils its diverse portfolio and expansive manufacturing footprint across the globe. For more information, visit optinova.comFrom the revolutionary FEP QuickShrink™ 2.0 to the intricate PTFE Zebra Heat Shrink for endoscopic devices, Andreas navigates through the intricacies of these advancements and their pivotal roles in enhancing medical device functionalities. Additionally, he sheds light on Optinova's response to evolving regulatory landscapes, particularly concerning PFAS regulations, while also elaborating on the company's value-added services and design expertise. Moreover, Andreas explores the integration of automation and digitalization in manufacturing processes, offering a glimpse into the future of precision engineering in the medical sector. Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Andreas Perjus | CTO | Optinova GroupAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of Custom Stent & Frame Covering with our esteemed guest, Chris Steadham, General Manager of Medical Murray based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Medical Murray is renowned for its expertise as a contract development and manufacturing organization specializing in minimally invasive medical devices and implants. For more information on Medical Murray, visit medicamurray.com.Chris sheds light on various aspects of stent and frame covering, addressing the rationale behind their covering, capabilities related to covering implantable prosthetic devices with different membranes or coatings, and the complexities involved in covering diverse shapes such as bifurcations or frames with tapered ends. We explore the nuances between using ePTFE tubing and ePTFE membranes, the tuneability of ePTFE properties to meet specific functional requirements, and the innovative realm of composite stent covers involving dissimilar and similar materials. Additionally, we touch upon stent delivery methods, preventing migration through effective anchoring techniques, and the integration of electronics into medical devices, showcasing Medical Murray's pioneering work in developing Smart Catheters & Intelligent Implants.Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Chris Steadman | General Manager | Medical MurrayAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode of the Med-Ex Podcast, we welcome Ajay Padsalgikar, a Technical Director at Biolinq, renowned for his expertise in plastics and polyurethanes (TPUs) within the medical device field. Ajay begins by offering a comprehensive overview of TPUs, encompassing their definition, chemistry, and structural properties, while also discussing measurement techniques. He then delves into the intricacies of TPU extrusion, highlighting the significance of factors like proper drying, minimizing residence times, managing gels, and controlling lot-to-lot variations.The conversation proceeds to explore current medical applications of polyurethanes, emphasizing biocompatibility and the concept of biostable TPUs, with a focus on siloxane properties and exceptional oxidative resistance in devices such as those used in cardiovascular and glucose monitoring. The episode also ventures into emerging TPU applications, including drug delivery, biodegradable devices for controlled drug release, membranes for cell encapsulation, and their role in neurostimulators with electrode leads. Ajay's extensive knowledge provides valuable insights into the dynamic world of TPUs in the medical device industry.Biolinq has created a new Biowearable experience by using an array of electrochemical sensors so small you can barely feel them. Our metabolic health sensors work together to provide maximum reliability for continuous sensing applications. With the potential of multiple analytes such as glucose, ketones, and lactate, we provide an entirely new user experience with actionable metabolic health insights. Over the next 10 years we intend to bring Biosensing and Biowearables mainstream. We are dedicated to the personal and professional growth of all our team members and strive to create a positive and creative work environment. For more information, visit. www.biolinq.comHost/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Ajay Padsalgikar, Phd. | Technical Director | BiolinqAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, we dive into the world of precision laser cutting and welding of hypotubes with Nick Zabobini and Jay Vinson, co-founders of Symmetry Laser. Nick and Jay share their journey of building a company that combines high-volume production with rapid prototyping for R&D engineers. Discover their unique approach to lean manufacturing, insights into the maturity model of laser cut hypotubes, and the intricacies of various cut patterns. Join us as we explore their use of custom-designed Fiber Lasers and their value chain for post-processing. Plus, don't miss the exciting news of Symmetry Laser joining Chamfr as a new seller. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on innovation in contract manufacturing!Symmetry Laser is trailblazing the art of precision laser cutting and welding of hypotubes. Their custom-built laser equipment and software-driven facility ensures high-volume production parts and delivery of rapid prototypes in 3 to 5 days. For more information, visit https://www.symmetrylaser.com.Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest 1: Nick Zanobini | Co-Founder | Symmetry LaserGuest 2: Jay Vinson | Co-Founder | Symmetry LaserAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Our guest this episode is Basker Lalgudi, Business Manager – High Performance Polymers for Medical Devices at Evonik Corporation. We explore the cutting-edge co-extrusion and reflow processes that have led to the development of bondable VESTAMID PEBA directly adhering to Daikin’s EFEP material, creating two-layer structures with low friction inner layers and bondable PEBA outer layers. The result is a game-changer, eliminating the need for adhesives or surface activation processes, ensuring strong adhesion, and minimizing the risk of delamination during surgical procedures. We also delve into the world of EFEP, a low friction alternative to PTFE, and its impressive mechanical properties. Join us for this informative episode as we unravel the science behind medical device manufacturing, discussing everything from material compatibility to sterilization processes. To learn more about Bondable VESTAMID® Care PEBA for multi-layer catheters go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7eb1vRCSc8&t=2s Evonik is one of the world’s leading specialty chemicals companies. While they don’t produce electric cars, aircraft, medications or 3D printers, Evonik is part and parcel of these and many other end products. That’s because they contribute the small things that make a big difference. They make electric car batteries perform better, aircraft greener, medications more effective and 3D printers more efficient. In short: They think beyond the bounds of chemistry to make the world a better place.To learn more visit, www.evonik.com Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Basker Lalgudi | Business Manager | EvonikAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Join us on the Med-Ex podcast as we delve into the world of medical device manufacturing with industry leaders Chad Karwoski and Chad Freestone from Flexan. Discover the latest innovations in silicone and thermoplastic components, sub-assemblies, and devices, and gain valuable insights into topics such as co-extruded barium stripes, transitional tubing, reducing tackiness in silicone tubing, preventing collapse in soft tubing, and the advantages of over-molding in medical device production. Co-hosted by Mark Bonifacio, Founder of BCS, LLC, this podcast explores the cutting-edge techniques and automation methods employed by Flexan to create durable, high-quality medical devices that improve patient outcomes. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of medical manufacturing and automation!Flexan is a contract manufacturer offering services for a broad array of products. Many of their operations take place in certified and accredited cleanroom manufacturing facilities. They offer a wide variety of molding and extrusion capabilities utilizing rubber, silicone and thermoplastic materials. For more information, visit www.flexan.comHost/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersCo-Host: Mark Bonifacio | Founder | BCS, LLCGuest 1: Chad Karwoski | Program Manager | FlexanGuest 2: Chad Freestone | Director Of Engineering | FlexanAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, Steve welcomes Beth Harrison Meyer, Global VP of Marketing, and Martin Forrester, R&D Technical Manager at Aptyx, a contract manufacturing organization specializing in medical molding, extrusion, coatings, and device assembly. The discussions start with Beth shedding light on the recent rebranding of Molded Devices Inc. (MDI) to Aptyx. Beth explains the motivation behind the rebranding and delves into the company's rich 70-year history in manufacturing. She also shares insights into the exciting future of Aptyx.Martin then joins to discusses the embedded wire hose product he helped develop, which addresses the challenge of condensation within hoses used for conveying respiratory gases. He explains how the embedded wire hose prevents pooling of liquid water, ensuring optimal functionality and patient safety. The conversation then shifts to smoke evacuation tubing, designed to reduce electrosurgical smoke exposure during minimally invasive procedures. Martin highlights the enhanced properties of the product, increasing user interaction. Finally, Martin discusses the importance of helically reinforced conical hoses for CPAP machines and other breathing-related medical devices, emphasizing their unique applications and the transitions they offer in outer diameters.Aptyx is the expert manufacturing partner that engineers smart solutions to help you solve tough challenges with confidence. They excel at a broad range of specialized capabilities including engineering, molding, extrusion, coatings, and assembly. With decades of deep expertise and a global network of facilities, their team can help you to bring mission-critical complex components and finished devices from idea to market success with entrepreneurial speed and sustainable results.For more information, visit www.aptyx.comHost/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest 1: Beth Harrison Meyer | Global VP of Marketing | AptyxGuest 2: Martin Forrester | R&D Technical Manager | AptyxAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, we have Damian Carr, the founder of Eyedea Medtech Consulting, based in Galway, Ireland.Eyedea Medtech Consulting offers design services and workshops for the medical device industry from concept up to design freeze. Specializing in catheter and delivery systems. Eyedea Medtech Consulting also offers innovation services and consultation to all aspects within the design & manufacturing industry, from textiles, automotive, product & industrial design, sourcing, regulations & much more. For more information go to www.eyedea.ieDamian will share insights into his background and the consulting services provided by Eyedea, setting the stage for an engaging discussion. We will explore the intricacies of multi-layered catheters, discussing how this technology is unlocking new avenues in medicine. Damian will help us understand the difference between over the wire (OTW) and rapid exchange (RX) designs, as well as the distinction between an angioplasty balloon catheter and a steerable/deflection catheter for transeptal access.In addition, we'll examine new and emerging process technologies for catheters, including film-cast coatings, thin-wall extrusions, and laser cut processing. Damian will then provide an overview of Eyedea's "Catheter Dynamics Workshops" and their highly acclaimed "Catheter Design Handbook".Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Damian Carr | Founder | Eyedea Medtech ConsultancyAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Today's guest is Charles Tang, the dynamic CEO, and Founder of AP Technologies. Charles discusses how AP Technologies evolved from an extruder of IV catheter tubing to a full service supplier of technical extrusions and catheter assemblies. AP Technologies is a medical device contract manufacturer that specializes in tight tolerance, precision medical components using the latest extrusion and molding processes. They utilize their comprehensive quality control system, state-of-the-art facility, and advanced statistical methodologies to maintain the highest quality standards in the industry.You can learn more about them at www.ap-tech.com In this episode, we delve into Charles's journey from a recent graduate with a vision to the head of a successful operation, discussing their growth strategies, both organic and inorganic, and explore their future plans. We also look at the global landscape of MedTech trade shows, examining the most active and opportune regions for new development programs. We'll probe into nearshoring and reshoring trends, discussing how AP Technologies navigates scalability for volume production. Lastly, we tackle the pressing issue of supply chain challenges in the MedTech industry, focusing on high-quality, high-performance materials such as fluoropolymers and other technical polymers and compounds. We also discuss 'Just-In-Time' solutions and how AP Technologies' unique logistics and stocking solutions can benefit customers. Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Charles Tang| CEO/ Founder | AP TechnologiesAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, we're excited to have Jose Maeso, CTO and Co-Founder of Lighteum, joining us to explore the fascinating subject of Nitinol for medical devices, including laser and post-processing. Lighteum is the world’s only completely transparent and highly responsive partner in Nitinol component development and manufacturing, serving the medical device market. They pride themselves on being both innovative and collaborative, while offering the fastest turnaround time, industry-wide. Learn more at www.lighteum.com During this episode, we discuss the unique properties that make nitinol an ideal candidate for medical devices, its limitations, and fabrication possibilities. We also compare Nitinol and stainless steel, examining when it's beneficial to use one over the other, and if they can be combined using a laser welding process. Further, we delve into the specifics of laser processing, discussing when it's advantageous to use a femtosecond laser vs. a long-pulsed laser, and how laser processing of nitinol scales from development to production. The discussion also covers post-processing of nitinol, why it's necessary after laser cutting, the methods used, and how certain techniques can enable better bonding of polymeric covers or drug-carrying polymeric coatings to laser-processed stents. Lastly, we discuss trends in the Nitinol space and Lighteum's new stocking program for nitinol tubing. Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Jose´ Maeso | CTO & Co-Founder | LighteumAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode, we're focusing on supply chain dynamics, heat shrink tubing, and innovation solutions for jacketing laser cut hypotubes. Our guest is Barry Schnur, CEO of David Schnur Associates (DSA).DSA is not your typical manufacturer’s representative agency. With a global reach that spans across the USA and internationally, DSA has been at the forefront of medical innovation for the last 40 years. They provide consulting and materials expertise, helping countless medical innovators build and commercialize their devices. To learn more about DSA, visit www.davidschnurassociates.com/Our conversation with Barry will take us through the current supply chain dynamics in the MedTech industry, both commercially and technically. We’ll be discussing the role of heat shrink tubing in med device manufacturing, its various uses and types - from FEP HST used as a manufacturing aid for composite catheter shafts, to Pebax HST as an outer jacket of hypotube. We'll also cover the industry trends and supply chain issues impacting the sector.Next, we dive into the realm of laser cut hypotubes, often used in advanced steerable delivery systems and endoscopes for increased flexibility and torque response. Barry will share insights on the challenges of reflowing catheters constructed from these hypotubes and a more elegant design solution for varying flexibility and torque properties.Host/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Barry Schnur | CEO| David Schnur Associates (DSA)Announcer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Welcome to Season 2 of the Med-Ex Podcast! In our opening episode, we explore the fascinating world of robotic-assisted catheters and endoscopes with our esteemed guest, Joe Bogusky, a Staff Mechanical Engineer at Intuitive Surgical, the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery.In this episode, Steve and Joe discuss the unique capabilities of ION’s ultra thin and flexible robotic catheter, the ongoing shift from reusable to single-use, steerable, robotic endoscopes, and more.Intuitive Surgical has been leading the way in innovative surgical technology for over two decades, revolutionizing patient care with its robotic-assisted systems. The company's trailblazing spirit is evident in its ION platform, a robotic-assisted bronchoscope designed for biopsies in hard-to-reach areas of the lung.For more information, visit www.intuitive.comHost/ Producer: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest: Joe Bogusky | Staff Mechanical Engineer | Intuitive SurgicalAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersEditor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtrudersFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In the season 1 finale, Steve Maxson and Joe Rowan, Junkosha, sit down for a follow up on the availability PTFE Liners and FEP heat shrink tubing. Listen in as they share valuable insights on the supply chain and expansion activities, while also shedding light on some of the new developments at Junkosha – including their Innovator of the Year Award.Junkosha are pioneers of fluoropolymer-based technologies across many sectors including microwave interconnect and medical devices. This includes thin wall etched PTFE liners and peelable FEP heat shrink tubing for medical devices. Junkosha has three operations in Japan, including their headquarters as well as sites in the US, UK and China.For more information, visit https://www.junkosha.com/en Host: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US Extruders Guest : Joe Rowan | Advisor | Junkosha Announcer: Bill Kramer | President | US Extruders Producer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtruderFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Steve Maxson discusses laser processing with Kevin Hartke, Chief Technology Officer at Resonetics. Kevin and Steve dive into the laser technologies available at Resonetics Lightspeed Lab for quick turn prototyping of medical device components.Resonetics is a global leader in advanced engineering, prototyping, product development, and micro-manufacturing. They collaborate with customers to enable them to quickly develop breakthrough medical products to expand the possibilities of medical technology and improve patient care worldwide. They are flexible to the needs of customer and can support projects at any level, from initial concept to design, prototyping, and high-volume manufacturing.For more information, visit www.resonetics.comHost: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest : Kevin Hartke | Chief Technology Officer | ResoneticsAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersProducer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtruderFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Steve Maxson discuss solving challenging grip or slip problems by adding micro surfaces to components and devices with Ralph Hulseman, President and CTO of Hoowaki. Ralf hits on topics ranging from high grip, anti-migration technology for covered stents and balloons to low friction micro surfaces on medical tubing. Hoowaki conducts advanced research, development, engineering, and design of micro and nano surfaces to solve difficult friction and surface tension problems. They manufacture those micro surfaces onto mold, die or roll tooling so that our customers can use the tooling to make improved rubber and plastic products.For more information, visit www.hoowaki.com Host: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest : Ralph Hulseman | President & CTO | HoowakiAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersProducer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US Extruder For video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

In this episode Steve talks with Adam Sutton, Founder/CEO of Keystone Medical Technologies about thermoplastic tubing and Polyimide tubing.Keystone Medical Technologies offers high-quality thermoplastic extrusions and Polyimide tubing with competitive pricing, shorter lead-times, and excellent customer service.For more information visit, www. keystonemedtech.comHost: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest : Adam Sutton | Founder / CEO | Keystone Medical TechnologiesAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersProducer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtruderFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Steve Maxson sits down with John Brunelle, President of ProSystems Integration to discuss Extrusion Control Platforms including discrete and touchscreen controls. ProSystems provides complete control system solutions from conception to production. Their experienced team works closely with your staff to customize the most cost effective system possible.For more information, visit www.prosystemsllc.com Host: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest : John Brunelle | President | ProSystems IntegrationAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersProducer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US ExtruderFor video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Steve Maxson Speaks with Norbert Ansay, R&D Manager at High Performance Medical Solutions (HPMS), a Proterial Cable America Company about medical extrusion. The discuss the topics of multi-lumen, high-temperature plastics, PEEK, high pressure braided tubing, clean rooms, endoscopy, and more. At High Performance Medical Solutions (HPMS), a Proterial Group Company, they understand medical tubing and cables are mission critical in the value-stream for the surgical, vascular, endoscopy, and ultrasound device markets. That's why they offer robust in-house solutions for extrusion and wire, including secondary operations like tipping, printing, punching, sub-assembly for catheters, medical machining, and custom tooling. Their vertically integrated ISO Class 8 and Class 9 Cleanrooms provide over 30,000 ft2 of clean room space, enabling us to kit devices and package products for faster turnaround times. Their team of experienced professionals uses cutting-edge equipment and processes to ensure that our products are reliable and effective. At HPMS, They prioritize quality, continuous improvement and innovation, while staying at the forefront of the CMO industry.For more information, visit https://usa.proterial.comHost: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest : Rayne DuPaul | Vice President of Corporate Marketing | HPMSGuest : Norbert Ansay | R&D Manager | HPMSAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersProducer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US Extruder For video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts

Steve Maxson talks single-use endoscopes with Alan Iranian, Director of Endoscopic Steerable Catheters at Biomerics. The discuss the basic construction of single-use, tip deflectable endoscopes, multi-lumen flexible shafts, the distal articulating section, and more. Biomerics is a vertically integrated medical device contract manufacturer serving the interventional device market. Over nearly three decades, they’ve grown from one location to a vertically integrated medical device contract manufacturing partner with nine facilities. What makes them unique is their engineering depth. Through investment and acquisition, they’ve strategically added all the core technologies—both materials and processes—to meet the needs of the interventional marketplace. For more information, visit www.biomerics.com Host: Steve Maxson | Innovation & Business Development Manager | US ExtrudersGuest : Alan Iranian | Director of Endoscopic Steerable Catheters | BiomericsAnnouncer: Bill Kramer | President | US ExtrudersProducer/ Editor/ Original Music: Eric Adair | Marketing Manager | US Extruder For video episodes visit www.us-extruders.com/podcasts