Technology: Datwyler rubber plungers in ‘automatic retractable syringe’

Castel Mella, Italy – Swiss polymer group Datwyler has supported med-tech company Roncadelle Operations in developing an intuitive safety syringe with a needle retraction mechanism to eliminate needlestick injuries.

Datwyler contributed rubber plungers for the SafeR syringes, which have a “unique shape with a hole in the centre,” the Swiss manufacturer said in a 6 Oct statement.

The rubber plungers, it said, make an important contribution to ensuring that safety mechanisms function perfectly at all times and the needle is safely retracted after a single use. 

Furthermore, Datwyler contributed its medical design knowledge as well as knowhow for the selection of the key materials and sealing options.

“The polyisoprene-based compound used for the plungers meets the most demanding application requirements,” said Datwyler. 

The compound is latex-free and offers consistent physical properties with the hardness of the material, the tensile strength and the compression set remaining unchanged for the lifetime of the syringe.

The patented SafeR syringe features a “one-touch” needle retraction mechanism upon completion of the injection, as well as auto disable, re-use prevention, and sharp injury protection safety mechanisms in one device.

“This innovation is a result of intensive teamwork between Datwyler and Roncadelle Operations,” said Erik Ryckalts, CEO Roncadelle Operations.

“We had a clear vision for the final product, and Datwyler contributed industry knowledge and a deep understanding of materials and medical device design to make it a reality within a very short timeline.”