Rocheleau and Nordson ramp up COVID test consumables production

Rocheleau Tool & Die Co. has ordered dozens of Nordson Corporation’s Xaloy screws and barrels to equip blow molding machines for use by manufacturers of pipettes that are essential components of COVID-19 test procedures.

Rocheleau has encountered a massive demand for its blow molding systems.

President Steven R. Rocheleau said: “We are building equipment for pipette production in record time. Each machine includes components from multiple vendors, and Nordson has provided us with confidence by delivering screws and barrels from its Austintown, Ohio, facility ahead of schedule, enabling us to focus on other issues that demand attention.” 

The Xaloy Fusion screw was specified for the project because of its ability to maintain a consistently low melt temperature while producing high output rates.

Rob Cook, Nordson Manager of Processor Sales in the Americas, added: “While regrind based on blow molding trim is more sensitive to process variables than virgin resin, the Fusion screw ensures a uniform melt. The low melt temperature permits shorter cooling times and more parts per minute, and it supports pipette manufacturers’ use of heat-sensitive additives for certain products without the need to change the equipment setup.”

The X-800 lining for the Xaloy barrels is a nickel-based alloy with tungsten carbide that provides a longer working life than alternative carbide inlays.

Xaloy screws and barrels are basic components for the extrusion and molding of medical products, personal protection equipment, and packaging used for combating COVID-19.

Seeni Congivaram, Director of Sales and Marketing for Xaloy Products, concluded: “Today, tubing and connectors, blood bags, procedure kits, and other medical devices are playing critical roles in addressing the surge of hospital cases caused by the pandemic. Film and sheet products have been essential for preventing the spread of coronavirus infection. And packaging containers have made it possible for millions of people in lockdown to get fresh food and hot meals.”