Tubing maintains quality after 3,000 autoclave cycles.
Press Release Summary:
SIL-KORE(TM), for fiber-optic buffering and light-guide tubing in endoscopes and other medical devices, is highly flexible, autoclavable, and cold soakable. Fluoropolymer-silicone composite tubing is 30-50% lighter than conventional silicone and is compatible with most sterilization modalities. It comes in sizes from 0.5-14 mm. Silky smooth surface feel provides comfort for patients.
Original Press Release:
Gore Offers Fiber Optic Buffering and Light Guide Tubing for Endoscopes and Other Medical Devices
Elkton, Md. (June, 2003) W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., a leading medical device and electronic components manufacturer, provides SIL-KORE(TM) tubing, a preferred solution for fiber optic buffering and light guide tubing in endoscopes and other medical devices. SIL-KORE tubing is highly flexible, autoclavable, and cold-soakable. It is a unique patented fluoropolymer silicone composite technology that optimizes the benefits of silicone and PTFE. Weight savings of 30 - 50 % over conventional silicone can be achieved. Its silky smooth surface feel is preferred by patients and medical professionals.
SIL-KORE tubing also provides superior mechanical performance and field life compared to conventional silicone tubing. Compatible with most sterilization modalities, it stands up to the most rigorous pre-and post-operative cleansing procedures and remains flexible and easy to handle. It is mechanically strong with a high modulus of elasticity, high tensile strength, and low surface friction allowing for higher fiber packing
densities. Even after 3,000 autoclave cycles, SIL-KORE tubing maintains its initial performance characteristics.
SIL-KORE tubing is available in a variety of sizes from 0.5mm to 14mm. In addition to its applications in endoscopy and illumination, SIL-KORE tubing can be customized and modified to suit a variety of medical devices and end use environments.
W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. is a leader in providing high technology solutions for electronic, medical, industrial, and fabric applications. Headquartered in Newark, Delaware, Gore operates more than 45 facilities, has over a billion dollars in annual sales, and employs approximately 6,000 associates worldwide.
Gore's manufacturing facilities are ISO 9001 certified and registered.
For more information, call W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. at 800-445-4673 (USA), 302-292-5100 (international), or visit their Web site at http://www.gore.com/electronics.
