Written on 10.02.2011 - Technology
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Teknor Apex presents new Medalist medical wire compound at MD&M West

The first wire and cable compound in the Medalist family of medical elastomers is formulated and produced in accordance with stringent medical-industry requirements yet draws on technology with a long track record of success in non-medical insulation and jacketing applications. This was announced by the Thermoplastic Elastomer Division of Teknor Apex at MD&M West in Anaheim.

Like other Medalist elastomers, the MD458 compound is a high-purity formulation that has passed ISO 10993-5 cytotoxicity testing, is RoHS and REACh compliant, and is manufactured in the company's medical compounding facility in St. Albans, VT. At the same time, it provides the same electrical performance, elevated service temperature rating, and resistance to chemicals and sunlight as the company's Elexar EL8431, a TPE with more than two decades of service in wire and cable.

"As an exact medical-grade analog to a proven Elexar compound, Medalist MD458 draws on the extensive experience of Teknor Apex in serving both the electrical and medical sectors," said Nick Sandland, senior medical market manager. "It is our belief that this new compound is the first elastomer to be fully compliant with the standards and practical performance requirements of both industries."

Medalist MD458 has a Shore A hardness of 70, a flammability classification of HB (UL-94), and a maximum continuous operating temperature rating of 105 ºC (UL-1581). It has passed standard tests for oil resistance after seven days at 60 ºC and UV resistance after 720 hours. These properties lend themselves to applications in hospital and healthcare environments requiring excellent flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance.