NEW YORK, N.Y., June 12, 2014 –LinkTech Couplings, a leading global supplier of quick couplings and valves with headquarters in Ventura, Calif., will launch in July the new 60PS series of high-flow couplings made of Udel® polysulfone (PSU)resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers for healthcare and industrial applications. The 3/8-in (0.95 cm) diam. high-flow couplings are more durable and provide greater high temperature stability (up to 280°F/138°C) compared to competing thermoplastics like polypropylene (PP). Solvay made the announcement at the Medical Design & Manufacturing (MD&M) East 2014 ExhibitionJune 10-12 in New York City.
The 60PS series features a new and improved panel mount design with a larger and more robust and reliable thumb-latch which makes the coupling more durable and easier and faster to use. The new coupling is also a replacement for brass in pressurized hot water applications thanks to Udel® PSU’s compressive strength, high-temperature resistance, and autoclavability.
LinkTech Couplings has a successful track record with Solvay’s line of sulfone polymers including Radel® polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) for a range of quick coupling products. Radel® PPSU has been used in couplings for sterilization units due to its strong chemical resistance. ”Polysulfones are strong and easy to mold, making them highly suitable for these demanding applications,” said Hector Cordero, design engineer for LinkTech Couplings.
The multi-component injection molded coupling – available in valved and non-valved configurations – are typically 2-in (5 cm) long, 1-in (2.5 cm) wide, and 1.25-in (3.1 cm) high, according to Cordero. They are available in up to 60 styles and can interconnect with all other 60 series LinkTech couplings as well as competitive high-flow couplings.
In healthcare, the 60PS high-flow couplings are used in repeated use and single-use applications in biopharma devices, surgical equipment, patient monitoring devices, and pressure therapy equipment.
Udel® PSU excels in many fluid handling applications and has successfully replaced brass in pressurized hot water applications for over 20 years. It exhibits low creep under a sustained load at elevated temperatures and can withstand continuous exposure to hot chlorinated water. It also features a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of 174°C (345°F) and is compliant with ISO 10993-1 for limited exposure, non-implantable applications.
Solvay Specialty Polymers is the global leader in the development of sulfone polymer technology, launching Udel® PSU nearly 45 years ago. In addition, Solvay’s experience as a key materials supplier in the healthcare field spans more than 25 years. The company is a leading manufacturer of high-performance plastics, offering a broad range of materials for healthcare instruments and medical devices. More recently, Solvay has successfully introduced its line of Solviva® Biomaterials and offers them for use in a range of implantable devices.
About LinkTech Couplings
Headquartered in Ventura, Calif., LinkTech Couplings is a global supplier of quick couplings and valves. The company manufactures high-quality, easy-to-use quick couplings, valves, and fittings. LinkTech’s product range is well suited for use in durable and disposable medical equipment, analytical devices, food and beverage, and industrial applications. For more information, call (805)339-0055 or visit www.linktechcouplings.com.
As an international chemical group, SOLVAY assists industries in finding and implementing ever more responsible and value-creating solutions. Solvay generates 90% of its net sales in activities where it is among the world's top three players. It serves many markets, varying from energy and the environment to automotive and aeronautics or electricity and electronics, with one goal: to raise the performance of its clients and improve society's quality of life. The group is headquartered in Brussels, employs about 29,400 people in 56 countries and generated 9.9 billion euros in net sales in 2013. Solvay SA is listed as SOLB.BE on NYSE Euronext in Brussels and Paris (Bloomberg: SOLB:BB - Reuters: SOLB.BR).
