1. How do I get the lowest balloon profile possible?
Balloon Profile generally refers to the maximum diameter of a deflated, wrapped balloon mounted on a catheter. While many factors affect balloon profile, (including catheter design), the lowest profile for a given balloon diameter and pressure will be achieved with the thinnest wall in both the body and cone area as well as the highest tensile strength.
2. Are all thin-walled balloons the same?
It is not enough to produce thin-walled balloons. The wall thickness or thinness in the balloon cone and neck area is just as important as a thin body. In fact, in many circumstances, a thin neck and cone are critical for achieving low profile and flexibility (trackability). Advanced Polymers has optimized and perfected the balloon forming process, materials and equipment to produce the thinnest and strongest overall balloon.
3. What is the standard lead time for a custom balloon?
The typical lead time for custom PET balloons is 3 to 4 weeks. However, because we have our own extrusion department, CAD/CAM mold design and fabrication, and high volume production capacity, “critical” orders can typically be shipped in 1 to 2 weeks, depending on quantity and the difficulty of the balloon. Sample balloons can generally be shipped the same day for orders received by 11:00 a.m. EST.
6. What can be done to make a balloon more durable and resistant to damage?
See Balloon Coatings. Balloons can also be made more durable by increasing the thickness of the balloon, which also increases the burst pressure. However, this also increases the stiffness of the balloon and increases the balloon profile. In some applications, it may make sense to change balloon materials. Polyurethane typically produces the most durable balloon for a given thickness.
8. What is Balloon Length?
The balloon length typically refers to the working length of the balloon, or the length of the straight body section.
10. What is Rated Burst Pressure?
The rated burst pressure is the maximum statistically guaranteed pressure to which a balloon can be inflated without failing. For PTCA and PTA catheters, this is normally 95% confidence / 99% guarantee.
11. What is Balloon Profile?
Balloon profile is the maximum diameter of the balloon when mounted on a catheter in its deflated and wrapped condition or the smallest hole through which the deflated wrapped balloon can pass.