Manufacturer fulfils high demand for UVC sterilisation equipment amid coronavirus outbreak

Adtech Polymer Engineering is fulfilling an increased demand for fluoropolymer products used in UVC sterilisation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Safe medical equipment is paramount, and therefore, UVC sterilisation equipment is essential.

Why UVC is important to the medical industry

UVC, a strong ultraviolet light used to disinfect and destroy harmful microorganisms in liquids, the air and on surfaces, is believed to be the most effective radiation to destroy bacteria and inactivate viruses. As a result, UVC radiation is used to sterilise medical equipment, as well as other medical applications.

The use of fluoropolymers in UVC sterilisation

Due to the high strength of ultraviolet rays, most polymers are not suitable for UVC sterilisation. However, Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) is inert to ultraviolet rays and has a low absorption rate for UVC, so the transmission rate from UVC lamps is not significantly affected. The fluoropolymer also does not brittle or discolour when used with the strong light over time. This means that FEP is the ideal material to produce components for UVC sterilisation equipment.

Fluoroplastic products used in UVC sterilisation

Fluoroplastics play a crucial role in providing a safe medical environment. In UVC sterilisation equipment, fluoropolymer tubes and retractable coils are used to deliver liquids in front of UVC lamps to sterilise their content. FEP heat shrink sleeving is also used to cover UVC lamps. The polymer makes them shatterproof and ensures compliance in glass free areas.

Meeting the high demand

During the current global pandemic, Adtech Polymer Engineering is currently fulfilling an increased demand for FEP tubing and UVC lamp coatings used in UVC sterilisation. The fluoroplastic manufacturer has been able to act rapidly to increase production in key products and help provide a safe medical environment for the fight against Covid-19. The company credits its flexible company structure and high stock levels for the main reasons it has been able to help.