magnetic properties. All of these factors influence the choice of material for bearings in medical environments — but what material can replace steel? The medical equipment sector is increasingly choosing bearings made exclusively of zirconia (ZrO2), or other exotic ceramic compounds. According to the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, “ceramic bearings made from ZrO? are tough with similar expansion properties to chrome steel and 440 stainless steel, although they are 30% lighter.” Indeed, full ceramic precision bearings are harder than steel, with superior corrosion and heat resistance, higher dimensional stability and lower density. However, ceramic bearings are expensive. This is a big issue for health institutes that operate within tight budgets, so the decision to invest in them must be well-considered. Fortunately, ceramic bearings hold a number of advantages for medical environments. One is that the bearings don’t react to chemicals. That means they don’t corrode or weaken when subjected to harsh chemicals used for sterilisation in hospitals. Ceramics don’t require lubrication that would otherwise draw there are other instances where using the wrong components in such medical or laboratory equipment can contaminate study conditions, or cause the study to cease altogether. Instead, the extra investment in ceramic bearings can help ensure that medical robots run with effectiveness and longevity — especially as they are “cast more as companions providing emotional support, rather than seen as tools.” contaminants like dust, water or humidity and this also eliminates the need for maintenance processes like relubrication. They are also water-resistant, so can be washed-down regularly. High-value applications So, is investing in ceramic bearings for medical environments worth it? There are still certain applications where the speed and precision of steel are crucial, like in surgical robots for example. However, • Pig’s Tail® Protective Wrapping is designed to protect hydraulic and pneumatic hoses against impact and abrasion. Also suitable for protection of cables including fibreoptics either singular or bundled. • It is a heavy duty form of spiral protection suited to heavy industrial applications. • Made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). • Can be used for single hoses or multiple hose bundles. • Operating temperatures -50°C up to +120°C. • Suitable for use with all hydraulic fluids including glycol and phosphate ester based products. • Rounded edges for enhanced performance and safe handling. 0114 349 0766 info@plascompo.com www.plascompo.com PIG’S TAIL Wrapping ALSO PIG’S TAIL RAIL • Flame Retardant – UL94 class V-0 • Complies with EN45545 HL2 • Suitable for use in underground rail
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