Method for tip forming peelable PTFE tubing
US6358460B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 19, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB32B2535/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods are disclosed for producing multi-layer peelable sheaths having formed tips, for use as medical introducer devices, e.g., sheaths for inserting a catheter or the like into a patient. The methods include the steps of preparing a first composition blend for forming an inner layer of the multi-layer sheath, preparing a second composition blend for forming an outermost layer of the multi-layer sheath, combining the first and the second composition blends into a multi-layer pre-form, processing the multi-layer pre-form for producing tubing, and forming a tip at one end of the tubing using a thermal process, thereby producing the multi-layer sheath having the inner layer, the outermost layer, and the formed tip. The methods of the present invention include adding a detectable material to the blend used for making the inner layer for facilitating external visualization of the multi-layer sheath, thereby achieving a sheath with a formed tip having no visible discoloration. The methods also incorporate a reduced sintering process for achieving an optimally cured, peelable sheath having excellent tear properties.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.