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
Auto-Pushrod SystemCatheter Gripper
Catheter GripperLiquid Nitrogen Cooling
Liquid Nitrogen CoolingA 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) |  |
