Heating Surgical Tools for Coating Burn Off

A client contacted THE LAB at Ambrell because they needed to heat surgical tools to burn off the nylon coating. They had been using a torch for this application. THE LAB determined that an Ambrell EASYHEAT^® 1.2 kW, 150-400 kHz induction heating power supply with a single position multiple-turn pancake coil would meet the requirements of this medical industry application. 

More heating application notes

Initial tests were conducted to optimize the power delivered to the part. A half-inch ceramic spacer was used to lay the part over the coil. Within seconds of the power being turned on, the coating on the tool began to smoke and soon started to bubble. It took approximately five minutes to remove the entire coating from the surgical tool. The frequency for this application was set to 251 kHz. 

By switching to induction, the client was able to take advantage of a number of benefits. Induction is a safer heating method than a torch, as there is no open flame. Additionally, induction is a more precise heating method and isn't dependent on operator skill. The heating time induction offered met the client's heating time objectives. Finally, induction is more efficient as it only delivers heat to the portion of the part that requires heating. 

If you have a heating application that could benefit from induction heating, contact THE LAB to take advantage of complimentary application testing. We have several options so you can observe your parts being tested including Virtual Lab Service, where you'll receive a link to watch testing live from your computer or smartphone.