What Materials Are Used for Precision Turning Parts in Medical Devices?
Medical devices demand the highest level of precision due to their application in diagnostics, therapy, or surgery. Among the various production techniques, precision turning parts is essential for achieving high-quality components. Let’s explore this process, the materials used, and their properties.
What is Turning?
Turning is a machining process where the part being machined is rotated around its axis while the cutting tool moves along or across the rotation axis, or at an angle to it. It is one of the oldest metalworking methods, which, thanks to modern CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, allows for exceptional precision and repeatability of elements.
The Importance of Turning in Medical Device Manufacturing
In the medical sector, the precision and reliability of components are crucial for safety and the effectiveness of treatment. Precision turning parts facilitates the production of complex components with the required accuracy, which is key, for example, in the manufacturing of implants, medical apparatus components, or surgical tools.
Materials Used for Turning in Medicine
A wide range of materials, which must meet stringent requirements for biocompatibility, strength, and corrosion resistance, are used for turning parts in medical devices. Here are some of the most popular materials:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most commonly used materials due to its corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties. It is ideal for manufacturing surgical tools, implants, or machine components.
Titanium
Titanium is chosen for its exceptional biocompatibility, lightweight, and excellent corrosion resistance. It is primarily used for manufacturing orthopedic implants and surgical tools.
Ceramics
Technical ceramics are used where exceptional wear resistance and biocompatibility are needed. They are often used for producing prosthetic and dental components.
Plastics
Specialized plastics such as PEEK and polysulfone are used in medicine for their durability, flexibility, and biocompatibility. They are ideally suited for parts of devices that are in direct contact with the patient’s body.
Which Medical Device Parts Are Subjected to Turning?
Among the parts of medical devices that are most often produced by turning are various types of axles, bushings, tips of surgical tools, components of infusion pumps, elements of diagnostic equipment, and implant components. Turning allows for the precise execution of each of these parts, while meeting strict sanitary and technical standards.
Precision turning parts is a key element in the production of medical devices, allowing for the necessary accuracy and functionality. Choosing the right material, depending on the purpose and function of the component, determines the final quality and effectiveness of the medical device. Therefore, this process requires continuous control and technological innovation to meet the growing demands of this industry.
