More about Precision Medical Components

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Depending on the application, precision medical components can involve a wide assortment of materials and manufacturing processes. Typical examples of precision medical components are surgical instrument sets, needles and fine micro-components. They even include electronic chassis, compressor housings and motors for medical machinery, such as ultrasonic diagnostic equipment and monitoring devices. Titanium and stainless steel are among the most common types of material, although, zinc, cobalt and aluminum alloys are also used for various applications. Various plastic and synthetic rubber parts and items are also essential to many medical operations. The important attributes for most precision components are that they resist corrosion and wear, are easily sterilized, retain shape and are relatively inert.

The fabrication of most metal components begins with barstock of the selected metal. This stock is then cut or machined to the appropriate size for the required components. In some cases, this may involve heavy industrial machinery, although it is often performed by a computer numeric controlled (CNC) device. Typically, short-run precision components demand the highly accurate capabilities of a CNC machine, which is also the most economical solution for most short-run production. These devices are capable of all manner of standard machining operations, including cutting, turning, milling and drilling. Whether or not they perform these operations on cut bar stock depends on the size and shape of the component, as well as the devices capabilities. Once the appropriately sized metal stock is placed within the CNC machine, the machine will execute the necessary functions, producing a finished or near-finished piece. Certain components may require additional coating, plating, welding or finishing services. Other manufacturers use plastic and metal injection molding to produce the desired components; these may also require additional CNC finishing. Laser and electron beam welding, as well as laser cutting, are also used.

Rapid Prototyping is another mainstay of medical component production. For many companies, it can mean the difference between success and failure. These prototypes can help engineers test and enhance components before they are produced in a full scale operation. They can also supply manufacturers with extremely helpful insight into the best manufacturing methods to be employed.