Zero ozone depletion potential
Safe.
Sustainable solvent technology for today’s emerging needs
Growing public concern about the effects of chemicals on human health, safety and the environment have led to restrictions on the use of many kinds of process solvents used by the medical device industry.
In evaluating alternatives, users of these materials must balance the need for cost-effective performance with that of a sustainable, long-term solution – a solution that will still be viable for many years to come.
3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids were designed to help you achieve that balance. Based on 3M’s proprietary segregated hydrofluoroether (HFE) chemistry, Novec fluids combine proven performance with an outstanding environmental and safety profile:
Engineered for performance, safety & the environment
3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids remain acceptable by regulatory agencies around the world as alternatives to HCFC-225 and HCFC-141b. And, because they are non-flammable, low in toxicity and are generally recognised as sustainable replacements for those solvents targeted for phase-out by international bodies, Novec fluids are ideal candidates to replace materials such as trichlorethylene (Trike), methylene chloride (dichloromethane) and n-propyl bromide (nPB).
The versatile solvent solutions
Novec fluids are available in “neat” form – for light duty cleaning, tube swelling, deposition and other applications – and as azeotropes or blends of azeotropes, which offer higher solvency for more difficult-to-remove soils. Novec fluids are also used as rinsing agents in conjunction with low volatility solvating agents. This co-solvent cleaning process is effective for the removal of the most challenging soils, such as heavy oils, greases and waxes.
Precision Cleaning Equipment
Crest Ultrasonics – The Sound Choice
Crest Ultrasonics has been a leader for over 50 years in the ultrasonic cleaning industry. Crest has been creating the standard for advanced precision cleaning equipment with a breadth of line known for its quality, long-lasting performance, and precision cleaning results. Our commitment to excellence continues with our new, highly advanced Solvac™ Vapour Degreaser systems.
Download Advanced Ultrasonic Cleaning for the Medical Device Industry Brochure
Solvac S1 – Advanced Solvent Cleaner
Ultrasonic cleaning & vapour degreasing
3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids offer a number of advantages for manufacturers of medical devices and equipment. They have demonstrated excellent compatibility with sensitive materials such as acrylic and polycarbonate, as well as a wide range of other plastics, elastomers and metals. Their low surface tension, low viscosity and high liquid densities make Novec fluids ideal for use in vapour degreasing equipment. They are fast-drying, and typically offer lower drag-out losses than conventional degreasing solvents.
What’s more, Novec fluids easily penetrate tight spaces on complex parts, then drain off easily so they don’t become trapped in small spaces. Unlike aqueous solutions, Novec fluids do not support biological growth, and are less equipment and energy-intensive. In addition, parts cleaned in Novec fluids dry quickly and spot-free, with less chance for corrosion.
Download White Paper – Solvent Cleaning & Vapour Degreasing for MedTech Industry
Cleaning with 3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids
Parts | Substrates | Soils |
---|---|---|
Artificial Hearts | Polycarbonate | Machining Oils |
Heart Valves | Silicone Rubber | Particulate |
O-Rings | Plastics | Mould Releases |
Eyeglass Lenses | Stainless Steel | Mounting Wax |
Catheters | Titanium | Skin Oils |
Needle Caps | Nickel/Cobalt | Buffing Compound |
Endoscope Parts | Aluminum | |
Gel Capsules | ||
Needles | ||
Stents | ||
Wires | ||
Cables | ||
Capillary Tubes | ||
Orthopedic Implants | ||
Dental Implants | ||
Spinal Implants |
Solvent cleaning vs. aqueous cleaning
Advantages of solvent cleaning with 3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids vs. aqueous systems.