In developing structurally strong MicroGuard antimicrobial copper alloys, we quickly determined that we would need a complete manufacturing approach to meet the needs of our customers and supply chain partners.

For OEMs and other fabricators, PMX will provide finishing assistance that enables our fabricating partners to produce MicroGuard products without reducing the antimicrobial properties. Providing finishing assistance is important since MicroGuard materials cannot be painted, waxed, varnished, or coated in any way to ensure antibacterial efficacy. Please review our frequently asked questions for more information.

MicroGuard antimicrobial copper alloys offer product developers unique combinations of properties that many other metals cannot match. MicroGuard alloys are durable, highly ductile, malleable, and offer outstanding machinability.

Available in strip, coil, sheet, plate, bar, tube, wire, and casting alloy forms, MicroGuard alloys can be machined, MIG welded, TIG welded, resistance welded, formed and brazed. Licensed MicroGuard fabricators can benefit from our experience and obtain welding instructions, welding wire, and optimal shielding gas formulations. Our MicroGuard welding and brazing alloys are color-matched and have the same inherent antimicrobial properties as the base metal. MicroGuard alloys are as strong or stronger than the stainless steels used in many hardware components.

For custom applications, our prototype and pilot plant may be able to produce MicroGuard components and finished goods to your specifications and ready for installation. Review our MicroGuard component hardware list.

Complete MicroGuard Finishing System

Developing engineered antimicrobial copper alloys to provide optimum physical and mechanical properties is a complex process that requires a continuing dialogue between our customers, our metallurgists and our technical staff. During the research and development process, we found that ensuring consistent antimicrobial performance from production to point-of-use would require a special line of stamping oils, degreasing agents, buffing compounds, and cleaners.

To ensure our antimicrobial claims and our EPA registration remains intact, PMX will supply a complete MicroGuard Finishing System to fabricators and installers of MicroGuard materials. Finishing products provided with each MicroGuard order include:

• Stamping oils and lubricants to facilitate fabrication
• Degreasing agents for removal of oils and contaminants
• Buffing and polishing compounds that will not reduce antimicrobial efficacy
• Cleaners and activators that will clean and enhance antimicrobial performance once the product is in use
• Welding wire
• Shielding gas for MIG and TIG welding

During our entire production process, our operations are governed by our ISO 9001: 2000 quality management system. Our approach focuses on careful planning and design, a state-of-the-art rolling mill, and good laboratory practices supported by our expertise in fabrication, forming, and drawing. We will visit your plants and work with you to increase production rates, reduce costs, and to develop high-quality MicroGuard products.

*Testing demonstrates effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.