The Client
The client, a world leading eye care facility within London’s National Health Service, encountered performance and sourcing challenges with an adhesive crucial to their ocular prostheses (artificial eye) production.
The Problem
The adhesive — provided by the client’s previous supplier — used to bond the pupil lens to the ocular structure was causing durability concerns and presented difficulties in obtaining consistent supply. These issues posed a risk to the longevity of the prostheses, which could necessitate replacements and impact patient care. Additionally, the uncertainties surrounding the existing adhesive supply chain created logistical complications for the client.
The Solution
The Antala team worked closely with the client’s chief ocularist and design lab in seeking a reliable solution that ensures long-term performance. Following trials and testing, Permabond 130UV proved to be the ideal solution for the application. Permabond 130UV is a cyanoacrylate formulated for high-performance bonding applications and addresses the problems faced by the client with several key advantages.
Firstly, Permabond 130UV offers superior durability over the previously used adhesive product. The enhanced bonding strength provided by Permabond 130UV achieves the optimal bond between the pupil lens and eye structure, thus reducing faults and the need for replacements whilst minimising associated costs and inconvenience for patients.
Secondly, Permabond 130UV offers several performance benefits over the previously used adhesive. The client’s design lab could expedite the production process thanks to Permabond 130UV’s significantly fast cure times. Permabond 130UV does not exhibit surface blooming — a hazy residue — that could compromise the carefully considered aesthetics of the prostheses. Furthermore, Permabond 130UV cures with a solid, non-tacky finish, providing a more reliable and comfortable patient experience.
The application of Permabond 130UV is a straightforward and efficient process, with the adhesive’s convenient 20g packaging allowing for manual application with precise control. This manual control is particularly beneficial for intricate work involved in ocular prostheses. When dispensed, the adhesive cures rapidly under exposure to a UV lamp, with the fast curing time minimising production hold-up and ensuring a smooth workflow.
Beyond locating the product solution, the Antala team provided support throughout the process, offering extensive technical guidance regarding applying Permabond 130UV to achieve optimal results. Trial samples allowed the ocularist team to test the adhesive thoroughly to fulfil all requirements before implementation.
Benefits
Implementing Permabond 130UV resulted in several highly-beneficial outcomes. The enhanced durability of the adhesive significantly improved the longevity of the finished product, enhancing patient care by ensuring the prostheses remained structurally and aesthetically functional for extended periods. Furthermore, the established and streamlined supply chain now offers a reliable source, eliminating the procurement challenges experienced with the previous supplier. The switch to Permabond 130UV effectively addressed the needs of the client, resulting in improved performance, streamlined operations, and enhanced patient care within the medical device industry.
Permabond & Antala Ltd.
Permabond is a leading manufacturer of industrial adhesives; supplying high quality products to customers worldwide. Permabond has a worldwide network of distributors which Antala is the highest representative in UK and Ireland. Permabond has been supplying innovative and effective solutions worldwide for decades, allowing even the most difficult joints to be made. Contact us to speak to the technical expert in your area.