New Industry Products

Micro Power Offers Medical Battery Pack That Withstands Autoclave Sterilization

April 26, 2007 by Jeff Shepard

Micro Power Electronics, Inc. announced that it has designed and built what it claims is one of the industry’s most advanced medical battery packs that can withstand autoclave sterilization. These medical battery packs, which tolerate temperatures up to 137°C and are impermeable to 30 PSI of superheated steam, allow a portable surgical tool manufacturer to offer the run time and power to complete major orthopedic surgeries.

"We are pleased to offer our medical device customers battery packs that are safe and durable for sterile surgical environments, bringing another element of efficiency and reliability to surgeons during complex procedures," said Jeffrey VanZwol, Marketing Manager for Micro Power.

The battery pack components are specially designed to survive the unique extreme conditions of an autoclave with minimal performance deterioration for the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) cells. The plastic housing is a glass blend that helps to withstand the heat and the pack is sealed together with a gasket and screws. The interior glue and thermistor are specified for high temperature use, and a valve allows the pack to vent. The battery pack powers handheld surgical drills and saws used in orthopedic surgery.