Fix Tubing Diameter Variation on Your Extrusion Line

Tolerance depends on tubing type and application. Medical-grade tubing typically requires OD tolerances of ±0.002" or tighter, while industrial tubing may allow ±0.005" or more. OLC MicroAir regulators achieve pressure accuracy of ±0.1% to ±0.3% of full scale, enabling extrusion lines to maintain tight dimensional tolerances consistently across long production runs.

Diameter variation is most commonly caused by fluctuations in internal air pressure during free extrusion. Changes in haul-off speed, line speed, or ambient conditions can destabilize air sizing pressure. MicroAir regulators compensate instantly — responding in under 100 milliseconds — to maintain a constant set pressure regardless of flow rate changes.

MicroAir units are available in ultra-low pressure ranges starting from 0–2 inches of water, with options up to 0–5 psi. Extended ranges up to 0–30 inches of water are available on select models. Each unit can be configured with the specific range best suited to your tubing extrusion application.

Yes. MicroAir IV models accept 0–10V analog input for direct PLC integration, enabling automated diameter control loops. MicroAir II models accept contact closure inputs from OD gauges or external controllers, allowing automatic Air Up/Air Down corrections based on real-time diameter measurements from inline gauging systems.

You need one channel per lumen. OLC offers dual-channel and 3- or 4-channel MicroAir configurations so each lumen in a multi-lumen tubing extrusion receives independent, precise pressure control. Each channel can be configured with a different pressure range and its own display, accommodating complex multi-lumen catheter and medical tubing geometries.

MicroAir regulators are designed for a service life of 10 to 20 years under normal operating conditions. The viscostatic damping fluid system and precision voice-coil linear motor (on Series IV units) require no recalibration and minimal maintenance, making them a long-term capital investment for continuous extrusion production environments.