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.
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 |