Boosting Medical Tube Set Assembly with LOCTITE® 4311

The Challenge: Inconsistent Bonds and Rising Costs

A global medical device manufacturer faced a critical issue in their production of disposable tube sets. Their traditional method—solvent welding Ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA) tubing to various connector materials like PVC and ABS—was proving unreliable. Variability in tubing dimensions caused inconsistent gaps, which the solvent couldn’t always fill or bond securely. Combined with a highly manual assembly process, this led to excessive scrap rates, costly rework, and escalating labor expenses.

The Solution: LOCTITE® 4311 Dual-Curing Adhesive

To overcome these challenges, the manufacturer turned to LOCTITE® 4311, a dual light- and moisture-curing instant adhesive specifically designed for medical device applications. This advanced adhesive offered several key advantages:

• One-part, rapid LED curing for high-speed assembly
• Gap-filling capabilities to compensate for tubing variation
• Hermetic seals within seconds for enhanced device reliability
• Fluorescence for easy, on-part inspection
• Tested to ISO 10993 biocompatibility standards, ensuring safety for both disposable and reusable devices
• Optimized for automated dispensing with LOCTITE® automated dispensing equipment

The Results: Lower Costs, Higher Precision

The adoption of LOCTITE® 4311 brought measurable improvements:

• 30%+ reduction in scrap and rework, thanks to more reliable bonding
• Increased productivity, driven by fast curing and a streamlined, one-step process
• Improved precision in adhesive application, reducing human error and labor dependency
• Enhanced product safety, backed by medical-grade performance and compliance

By integrating semi-automated LED curing and dispensing systems, the manufacturer also cut down on manual processes, allowing staff to focus on higher-value tasks.

Why It Matters: Innovation That Delivers

This case is a strong example of how material innovation—specifically dual-curing adhesives—can directly impact manufacturing performance in the healthcare industry. LOCTITE® 4311 not only solved the technical bonding issue but also elevated the overall efficiency and reliability of the assembly process.

For medical device manufacturers looking to minimize waste, improve quality, and enhance patient safety, advanced solutions like LOCTITE® 4311 are no longer optional—they’re essential.