Optional Powerfeed™ capability

Powerful and intuitive user interface

Very flexible sequence-of-steps recipe setup

Model LX Stent Loading Machine

Powerfeed is a compelling option available on the LX base. When enabled, dies move back and forth along the axis of the stent in a way that propels the stent through the compression station. This essentially eliminates the issue of friction between the stent and compression station, which is typically the bottleneck in a stent loading process.

A touchscreen HMI (Human/Machine Interface) allows the user to enter settings in “recipes” that specify a sequence of diameter or compression force “steps”. Depending on the options installed, the recipe may also control pushrod position, or cooling temperature. Calibrations and gauge checks are easy. Manual mode allows direct commands without a recipe. Engineering, maintenance, and manual functions may be password-protected Knowledge Base: LX Loader Screens and Recipe Setup

Recipes can be easily entered or changed on the recipe editing screen. Each recipe contains a sequence of steps that are executed in order.

Auto-Pushrod System
Catheter Gripper
Liquid Nitrogen Cooling

A pushrod is attached to a versatile clamp that is driven by a linear actuator. The recipe controls whether the pushrod moves at a constant speed, or chases the stent with a constant force.

Holds the catheter next to the compression opening while the stent is loaded inside. The tapered lock system makes alignment automatic and reliable. Custom bushings and molded gripper pads keep your product held securely in place.

Liquid nitrogen is sprayed either  on the stent prior to crimping, or else on the crimped stent as it is pushed inside the catheter, reducing the radial forces and friction while loading.

The model LX crimper is a refinement of the previous Blockwise model RFL. Process recipes running on the RFL machine can be directly transferred to the CX, step-for-step, with the same results. Improvements in the LX machine are: touch-screen for more convenient operation, better accuracy of diameter and force control, better reliability, additional step types for quality checks, and easier calibrations.

Calibration or checking of diameter and force is very quick and easy. Only one pin is needed for diameter. Calibrating the diameter does not necessitate a force recalibration, or vice-versa. Checking or calibration of pressure or temperature requires customer-supplied reference instruments.

The LX requires no maintenance. The radial compression mechanism also requires no maintenance – just keep the mechanism clean. Do not use in a dusty or dirty environment. You may clean the mechanism by blowing with compressed air. You may clean the center opening with 99% isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free swab or cloth. The plastic die tips eventually wear out. The die life depends strongly on the customer’s product and process settings. The die tips can be replaced at the Blockwise factory.

Required Installation Connections – Model LX
Description Physical Specs Functional Specs
Electric Power Powers the control system, HMI, motors, etc. C13 Coupler (IEC 60320) 100-240 VAC 10A 50-60Hz
Compressed Air Powers the Gripper, Powerfeed lock, etc..
(see Knowledge Base: Compressed Air &
High Pressure Gas Connections
)
Instant Tube Fitting Accepts ¼-inch OD Plastic Tube 6.9 to 8.3 bar (100 to 120 psi)
Liquid Nitrogen Liquid Nitrogen for cooling bore or catheter Female NPT 1/8 (ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 1/8) Max 1.5 bar (22 psi)

Model LX with Powerfeed™ Compression Station

Blockwise’s most capable stent loader. The feeding action of the dies eliminates the problem of friction in the compression mechanism and pushes with the entire length of the stent, instead of just at the back. Excels at loading long length or difficult to load stents. Most commonly it is combined with an automated pushrod system and catheter gripper.

Diameter Length Max Radial Force Die Material
0 – 29 mm 225 mm 1435 N PEEK or PEEK with PTFE

Model LX with Zero-G™ Compression Station

Basic stent loading system for stents with light radial force that push easily. Dies have minimal gaps throughout the diameter range. This machine can be configured with a manual pushrod holder for a simple setup, or the auto-pushrod system for automated loading.

Diameter Length Max Radial Force Die Material
0 – 30 mm 62, 124 mm 1000 N Ertalyte TX
0 – 30 mm 225 mm 1000 N PEEK or PEEK with PTFE