Catheter Manufacturer Air Pressure Control Solution

In a cath lab, a pressure transducer converts blood pressure signals into electrical readings for monitoring. In catheter manufacturing — OLC's focus — ultra-low air pressure regulators like the MicroAir series serve a different purpose: they precisely control internal air pressure inside the tubing lumen during the extrusion process to ensure dimensional accuracy and consistency.

For catheter and medical tubing extrusion, ultra-low air pressure regulators are the primary pressure control equipment. OLC's MicroAir series — available in single, dual, 3-channel, and 4-channel models — regulate internal air pressure from as low as 0–3 inches of water to 0–5 psi, with manual knob or PLC-based 0–10V control interfaces.

OLC MicroAir regulators cover pressure ranges from ultra-low (0–3 inches of water) up to 0–5 psi. The MicroAir I series also offers extended ranges including 0–5, 0–10, 0–15, and 0–30 inches of water. Each channel can be configured to a different range, making them ideal for multi-lumen catheter tubing with varying diameter requirements.

Yes. MicroAir IV models accept a 0–10V analog input directly from a PLC or other control device. This enables fully automated diameter control during catheter extrusion, including high-speed programmable switching for bump and taper tubing profiles. Response time is less than 0.1 second, making them well-suited for automated production lines.

The number of channels should match the number of lumens in your catheter tubing. OLC offers single-channel, dual-channel, 3-channel (MultiAir), and 4-channel (MultiAir) configurations. Each channel can be independently configured with its own pressure range and display, providing precise independent control over every lumen in complex catheter designs.

All OLC MicroAir units include a 3-year warranty covering parts and labor, plus unlimited phone support. A range change service is also available (free within 30 days of purchase on select models). Units ship worldwide via UPS, DHL, or FedEx from OLC's Shrewsbury, Massachusetts facility, with CE compliance for international shipments.