Blog posts tagged with 'cleanroom blade'

A highly innovative medical device manufacturer is currently experiencing an issue with the standard (non-cleanroom approved) single edge razor blades shown below:

Upon handling the razor blades, particulate is being transferred from the blade to the operators’ gloves. See below:

Glove Prior to Handling Razor Blade

Magnified Image of Glove Prior to Handling Razor Blade

Glove after Handling Razor Blade, Metallic Particulate Present on Finger Tips

Magnified Image of Glove after Handling Razor Blade

The images shown above are after handling a single razor blade. The next images shown below are after handling several razor blades.

For the manufacturer's processes, the razor blades are used by operators who also come into contact with plastic tubing. See below:

Once the operators have the metallic particulates on their gloves, it can be transferred to the tubing.

Additionally, a razor blade was wiped using IPA and a lint free cloth. The contaminant removed is shown below:

The medical manufacturer is accustomed to seeing some degree of particulate from single edge razor blades. However, it has become much more present. To the point where they are experiencing high yield loss (>25%) on certain lots of product.

The innovative manufacturer overcame this challenge with the GEM Runner Product Line. A one of a kind system, the GEM Runner is a re-loadable safety dispenser paired with clean room grade washed and degreased single edge blades. The results proved to achieve ultra-high levels of cleanliness while reducing waste and hand injury.

2-Facet: A good balance of sharpness and durability. Primarily for scraping and basic cutting.

3-Facet: Precision ground third angle increases sharpness. Used for thin or delicate material.

Stainless Steel: Best for precise applications where corrosion can be an issue, such as cleanroom environments. Provides precise initial cut.

Carbon Steel: Durable for tougher and harder material. Best for scraping applications.

Plastic Blade: Best for applications where safety, scratches, pitting, and rust are a concern. Blades come in a variety of tensile strengths, have a longer lasting edge, low moisture and chemical absorption, a low friction coefficient, and a longer shelf life. Perfect for glass, plastics, chrome, marble, and painted surfaces.  

Coated Blade: Improves lubricity through cutting process for cleanest cuts.

Uncoated Blade: No additional coating. In many cases coatings are not needed for application, and the blade tends to be less expensive than coated blades.

Degreased Blade: A cleaning process developed to reduce oil and particulates from manufacturing process to create the cleanest blade available. Reduces foreign material transfer. Developed with specific cleanroom applications in mind.

Heavy Duty Blade: A .012" thick blade is considered heavy duty. With a thicker steel edge the blade can withstand super tough jobs whre regular duty blades will break.

Backing or Spine: Steel backing will create a stiff blade. Aluminum backing allows for blade flexibility. Stainless steel is best for environments where corrosion is a concern.

Still not sure what you need to get the job done? Contact Us and our friendly blade experts will be happy to help!