The Diamonex range of optimized DLC coatings provide a super-hard, low friction coating with properties approaching those of natural diamond. Applied to both LVAD housing and rotor elements, the coatings provide a medical barrier and wear-resistant coating that lengthens the life of the device. In addition, the low coefficient-of-friction (0.03-0.25) also increases the mechanical efficiency by minimizing friction at start up and during operation. The coatings provide excellent adhesion and wear resistant protection for both artificial hip and knee replacements.

The Diamonex DLC coatings can be applied to both flat surfaces and 3-dimensional parts, using either direct ion beam or radio frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition techniques. They feature a high hardness of 15-30 gigapascals (GPa), which extends lifetime and prevents fretting and galling. The DLC coatings are also smooth and highly conformal, with typical coating thicknesses of just 2-5 microns, eliminating the need for subsequent machining to achieve fine tolerances.

“The Diamonex optimized DLC coatings are finely tuned for medical applications,” said Neil Winterbottom, general manager of MTC Diamonex. “Customers using the medical DLC coatings are seeing significant improvements in LVAD heart pump devices, knee implants, and other artificial joints when compared to other available coatings.”

About Morgan Technical Ceramics
Morgan Technical Ceramics manufactures components and sub-assemblies using an extensive range of materials, including structural and piezoelectric ceramics, dielectrics, braze alloys, and specialist coatings. It works with manufacturers’ design and R&D teams at local, national and international level on projects from concept and feasibility studies through prototype development to full production. The business employs some 2,500 people and has 23 manufacturing sites worldwide across Europe, the US, Mexico, China and Australia.

Morgan Technical Ceramics is a business within the Morgan Ceramics Division of The Morgan Crucible Company plc, one of the world's leading advanced materials companies. The company specialises in the design, manufacture and marketing of ceramic and carbon products which are used in a wide range of applications, from transport and telecommunications to fire protection and medical instruments. Morgan Crucible is listed on the London Stock Exchange in the engineering sector.

For more information on Morgan Technical Ceramics visit www.morgantechnicalceramics.com or contact one of our sales offices.