How Induction Catheter Tipping Works?
This induction heating application is often needed in the Medical Industry for the manufacturing of catheter tubes.
With induction catheter tipping, RF energy raises the temperature on the stainless steel or brass mold, without physically contacting the mold or using an open flame. The tip of the catheter is then formed by inserting the plastic tubing into the heated die or mold to form the rounded edges. The rounded end of the catheter tube allows the tube to be safely inserted into the human with minimal trauma to body tissue. The mold will also have a wire that inserts into the tubing to prevent the formation of blockages. The precise and accurate temperature control capabilities of induction are ideal for this type of precise medical application. The molds are usually fitted with a water-cooled jacket used to cool the heated mold back to a defined start temperature which enables the induction system to be driven by a set time/cycle zone.
Induction heating equipment for catheter tipping ensures a great degree of repeatability. The manufacturing process is fast and precise.
Catheter tipping typically requires low power. UltraFlex has several low power units that are ideal for catheter tipping and will recommend the right equipment based on the parts and unique application requirements.
| Base Material | Use | Considerations |
| Tool Steels (e.g. high-carbon steel, HSS) | Carbide-tipped saw teeth, drill bits, lathe tools | Tool steels have high hardness; induction’s localized heat limits the heat-affected zone so the bulk tool retains its temper. |
| Alloy Steels (e.g. 4140, 4340) | Mining cutter heads, milling cutter bodies | Tough alloy steels can handle brazing temperatures, but differ in thermal expansion from carbide. Induction heats the joint quickly, reducing overall thermal load. For large carbide pieces on alloy steel, a sandwich (tri-metal) braze foil is often used to accommodate stress. |
| Stainless Steels (e.g. 304, 410) | Carbide-tipped shafts, wear sleeves, medical tools | Stainless steels form oxides quickly; a vigorous flux or inert atmosphere is needed for good wetting. Induction’s precise temperature control prevents overheating the stainless which could cause chromium oxide formation. |
| Cast Iron (gray, ductile) | Carbide tips on cast-iron tool bodies, engine bits | Induction’s localized heating and the option to preheat the area can prevent cracking. Slow cooling after brazing is advised to avoid quenching stresses in the iron. |
