Medical Technology UK

Freudenberg Medical, a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) for finished medical devices, components, and minimally invasive solutions, has amplified its production capacity by introducing an innovative coating process for hypotubes. By embracing automation, Freudenberg not only meets expanding customer requirements but also delivers marked improvements in operator health and safety, and environmental protection.

Metal hypotubes, pivotal in cardiac catheters, play a significant role in deploying stents, reopening constricted coronary arteries, and averting heart attacks. Current statistics indicate that in the U.S. alone, over one million patients annually receive an implanted stent.

The core challenge lies in coating hypotubes, crafted from medical-grade metals, which requires the utmost precision during application and thermal curing. Freudenberg's latest automation initiative has significantly boosted energy efficiency, reduced material waste, and enhanced operator ergonomics and safety with improved fixturing and robotic handling. The coating material and associated chemical use has been cut in half with the automated process. Enhanced automation encompasses multiple stages - from handling and loading of hypotubes to automated thermal curing - all processes focused on precision, operator safety, and sustainability.

Sealing their commitment to continuous innovation and sustainability, Steven Langan, General Manager, stated, "In line with Freudenberg's enduring commitment to innovation and sustainability, we are thrilled to roll out our cutting-edge automated hypotube coating process. This strategic move not only offers substantial benefits to our customers and a safer workplace for our staff but also considerably diminishes our environmental impact."

Freudenberg Medical employes over 1,000 people in Ireland, operating from a combined 200,000 sq ft manufacturing footprint at its facilities in Galway and Leitrim. The company provides design and manufacturing solutions for complex minimally invasive catheters and ships over 16 million catheters per annum from its Irish operations.

Freudenberg will be exhibiting on stand at our sister event, Medical Technology Ireland on 20/21 September.
The entire two day exhibition and conference is free to attend and you can pre-register here