#$%^&*AU2013203114B220140605.pdf#####SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING A PLASTIC SURFACE Abstract There is disclosed herein a surgical instrument (500), comprising a drive member a tool assembly (850) including an anvil (880) and a cartridge assembly (18). A portion of the tool assembly defining a first contact surface (860) and another portion of the tool assembly defining a second contact surface (870). A drive beam (802) having a proximal engagement portion disposed adjacent a proximal end thereof and being configured to engage a portion of the drive member. A closure apparatus (800) disposed adjacent a distal end of the drive beam being configured to engage the first contact surface and the second contact surface of the tool assembly. At least a partial actuation of the instrument moves the closure apparatus distally so that a first portion of the closure apparatus moves into engagement with the first contact surface and a second portion of the closure apparatus moves into engagement with the second contact surface to approximate the anvil and the cartridge assembly. The closure apparatus includes a plastic surface on the first and second portions of the closure apparatus to minimize friction between the first and second portions of the closure apparatus and the first and second contact surfaces of the tool assembly, the plastic surface (8.04) including a reinforced section (810) on the closure apparatus (800).
