Minalex Precision Extrusions Play Important Role in COVID-19 Testing Globally

Minalex Corporation is playing a pivotal role in shortening the time needed to process RT-PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2 by supplying a component essential for the automation of the workflow. The Whitehouse Station, NJ-based aluminum extruder manufactures a component used in PerkinElmer’s JANUS^® G3 Primary Sample Reformatter workstation which provides safe and traceable barcode scanning and reformatting of samples for SARS_CoV-2 testing.

The JANUS^® G3 Primary Sample Reformatter increases lab’s testing throughput globally while reducing human error. WPA Works LLC, a machine shop/production facility based in Addison, IL, initially prototyped and developed machining processes for pathogen response and antibody testing. It is widely used by research labs, universities, hospitals, and other related facilities.

Minalex extrudes a part that serves as a piece of rail and plate assembly that slides into the JANUS^® G3 Primary Sample Reformatter. The aluminum extrusion must be high-quality and extremely precise so that it can withstand a large amount of movement, chemicals, and bodily fluids during operation. Once WPA receives the extrusion, it’s machined for final use in the testing machine and specially coated to help prevent degradation.

“Minalex has a long history of providing precise aluminum extrusions with extremely tight tolerances used in many types of medical equipment,” notes founder and CEO Jim Casey. “We’re proud to support the medical community every day, and especially during this unprecedented time.”

By significantly ramping up its production, Minalex is doing its part to fight the COVID-19 pandemic by helping eliminate equipment shortages which have been hindering labs abilities to process samples in a timely manner.

Prior to the pandemic, WPA purchased roughly 300 extrusions at a time from Minalex, on average, two to three times per year. Since March, WPA has purchased over 7,000 extrusions and currently has another 10,800 on order.