Syringe plunger breakaway and glide force

Customised engineering example

The majority of syringes are single-use, disposable and manually-operated. Smooth and consistent operation of the plunger is essential when administering drugs from the syringe, so plunger operation force is the subject of various international test standards.  ISO 7866-1 covers plastic hypodermic syringes, ISO 8537 covers syringes for insulin, ISO 11040-4 covers pre-filled glass syringes and ISO 11608-5 covers automated needle-based drug delivery systems.

Using a software-controlled test from Mecmesin allows the key lubricity parameters of the plunger and barrel to be accurately and repeatably tested :

- the initial 'breakaway force' to start the plunger moving
- the 'glide force' to keep it moving
- the min. max. and mean forces during the return stroke of the plunger

Mecmesin designs custom fittings for all syringe styles and sizes. This ensures correct alignment and a secure grip without distortion of the plunger and barrel. For filled syringes, a reservoir container allows the collection of aspirated fluid.