Today, CNC technology is constantly evolving. CNC-machined parts are becoming more and more accurate and reliable. CNC machined services are widely used in various industries, including the medical device industry. As medical parts require high precision, accuracy and reliability, many parts are very complex and also need to meet very strict implementation standards, therefore, with the progress of medicine, a large number of related needs are also increasing, and the advantages of CNC machining in this industry have been gradually enlarged.
This paper will explore the many advantages of CNC machining in medicine. It will highlight its uses, advantages, and main concerns. This will give you a basic understanding of this field. Let Yonglihao Machinery take you through this process in detail!
Table of Contents
Overview of CNC Machining
CNC is a method of machining that uses a program to control the movement of the machine tool and the machining of the part. It is very precise and efficient. CNC machining is ideal for use in aerospace, medical devices, and other fields. It is better suited for producing many types of parts in small batches. Those parts can be very complex and require high precision. It allows you to machine those parts efficiently and automatically. It greatly improves efficiency and shortens cycle times.
The development of medical devices dates back to ancient times when simple tools and materials were used to treat diseases. For example, the ancient Egyptians invented their own tool and then used it to treat their teeth. Ancient Greek doctors invented the Hippocratic bone needle for use in surgery. In modern times, steel scalpels and electric scalpels were invented. From ancient to modern times, the development of medical devices can be said to be closely related to human life. With the continuous development of medical devices, CNC technology will become more and more prominent in the field of medical devices.
How Do You Use CNC to Process Medical Devices?
CNC machining is used to manufacture medical devices. First, a design file is created using CAD. Then, the file is sent to a CNC machine. The CNC machine uses the CAD file to create a three-dimensional model for machining. The process of machining a part includes the following steps:
- Design the part. First, the designer designs the part according to the relevant requirements. This includes information such as the size, shape, and appearance of the part.
- Prepare the machining program. The designed part is converted into a machining program by CAM software. The CAM software is then responsible for breaking down the designed part into commands that the machine tool can understand. This includes information such as cutting paths, cutting speeds, and feed rates.
- Select the correct machining process. Selection is based on the material and machining requirements of the part. Different process parameters will affect the quality of the final part and machining efficiency.
- Select the right tool. Select according to the shape of the part and machining needs.
- Prepare machine tools and fixtures. Prepare suitable machine tools and fixtures according to the machining program and part size. The selection of fixtures is related to the clamping method and clamping position. The preparation of machine tools includes calibrating the zero point of the machine, installing tools, adjusting the position of the table and so on.
- Machining preparation. Machining preparation before machining, including installing tools, adjusting the initial position, determining the machining sequence, etc.
- Machining operation. According to the compiled machining program for machining operations. Input the machining program through the machine control system, start the machine tool for machining. The machine tool according to the program instructions for parts cutting, drilling and a series of other operations.
The Main Advantages of Medical Equipment CNC Machining
The quality of equipment in the medical device industry is key. It is closely related to the life and safety of patients. Therefore, medical equipment has high requirements for quality and safety. Medical equipment CNC machining has unparalleled precision. It can process complex and fine CNC medical parts. The parts processed through it also ensure patient safety and effective equipment. Its main advantages are as follows:
High Precision and Accuracy
Medical equipment often comes into contact with patients in the course of use. Therefore, there are strict requirements for their quality and efficacy. These rules cannot be compromised. This method is superior to some traditional methods. The parts it makes can be very precise. The products it makes can also be very precise. Therefore, it is the best choice for making medical devices.
High Production Efficiency
Many medical devices have complex parts. CNC machining can produce high-precision parts in large quantities in a short time. In other words, CNC machining can realize rapid production without compromising quality and shorten the product delivery cycle.
Higher Flexibility and Adaptability
Medical science is constantly advancing. New treatments and technologies are emerging. Equipment updates are accelerated. Related requirements are higher. CNC machined parts can quickly adapt to design changes. They do not require much time and effort. This greatly demonstrates its flexibility.
Diversity of Machining Materials
In the production process of medical devices, a variety of raw materials such as metal, plastic, composite materials, and so on. Different raw materials have different properties and characteristics. Therefore, the choice of CNC machining can be realized by selecting different machining tools to achieve the processing of different raw materials. This greatly simplifies the processing of different parts.
Applicable to Any Number and Type of Parts Processing
Usually, in the medical industry, the demand for parts processing of many varieties, small batches, and CNC machining without special molds. Therefore, choosing CNC machining for medical parts can realize fast and accurate machining. It is not too costly. At the same time, it is suitable for many types of parts machining.
Ensure Strict Medical Standards
The medical device industry has strict standards for its products. It must also comply with strict international standards. the ISO 13485 standard places special requirements on the quality of medical devices. Therefore CNC machining can be a good way to support medical device manufacturers in meeting this standard.
Applications of CNC Machining in the Medical Sector
CNC has many advantages in machining medical device parts, so it is very widely used in the medical field. So what are the specific applications?
Surgical Instruments
The quality of surgical instruments is directly related to the success or failure of surgery. Therefore, surgical instruments require high precision and stability of components. Through CNC machining technology, surgical instruments with reliable performance can be produced. They can provide timely, accurate, and stable support for the doctor’s surgery. For example, surgical instruments such as scalpels, forceps, pliers, and retractors. These surgical instruments can be processed with high precision using CNC machining technology.
Medical Implants
There are many medical implants in the healthcare industry. They are implanted in patients to ensure that they can use certain functions properly. This makes the precision of the devices particularly demanding. This is because any slight deviation can affect the final function. CNC-machined medical implants can meet the dimensional requirements and surface finish very well. For example, CNC machining plays an important role in knee implants and hip replacements. Among other things, medical implants are machined to help patients achieve certain functions quickly.
Diagnostic and Electronic Devices
The medical industry uses many pieces of equipment such as MRI machines, CT scanners, and lab analyzers. These devices contain thousands of parts, some in the tens of thousands. Since these parts do not need to be biocompatible, most of them can be manufactured by CNC machining. This method is very precise and reliable.
Customized Prosthetics and Exoskeletons
Patients require different prostheses and exoskeletons. This is because their body structures are not identical. 3D scanning and image acquisition technology can be used to collect specific data on different parts of a patient’s body. CNC machining is then used to produce flexible prosthetics and exoskeletons that restore patient function.
Each patient’s prosthesis and exoskeleton is unique. The parts that require CNC machining are few and varied. Therefore, they are well suited for CNC machining.
Micromachining of Small Parts
CNC machining is often used in medical devices. This is because many of these small parts play an irreplaceable role in repairing damaged bones and joints. In addition, in diagnostic systems, there are miniature parts with complex shapes and high precision requirements. The use of CNC machining ensures that high-quality parts are produced.
The Main Considerations of CNC Machining in the Manufacture of Medical Devices
CNC machining of medical devices directly affects the quality, safety, and function of medical devices. So the factors to be considered when machining parts are crucial. The main considerations are in the following areas:
Compliance and Standards
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has long developed quality management system standards for CNC machining in the medical field. For example, the ISO 13485 standard, was developed specifically to control the quality of medical devices. The standard covers all aspects from design and machining to product delivery. Therefore the entire machining process of medical device parts must comply with the requirements of this standard. On the other hand. They must also meet the legal requirements of the relevant countries.
Material Selection
Medical devices for different applications require the use of different materials. The selection of materials used needs to be based on strength, flexibility, corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, and mechanical properties. Biocompatibility needs to be considered when dealing with device components that come into contact with the patient’s body. This ensures that they do not cause adverse reactions in the body. Materials in critical areas must have the required tensile and compressive strength. The selected materials must not release any harmful elements. Examples include toxic, carcinogenic, or mutagenic agents.
Maintenance and Quality Control
Proper maintenance and care of the machine tool are critical to ensure the quality machining of medical parts. Routine maintenance must be carried out on the equipment involved at times other than CNC machining. This is to ensure their accuracy. In addition, a sound quality control mechanism for parts should be established. This can ensure that the processed parts will not have major quality problems. And also ensure that the quality of the final part is controlled.
Limitations of CNC Machining in the Medical Field
CNC decks are very flexible and are widely used in the medical field. Of course, it likewise has some problems. Many of these problems can be solved by improved processes, better tooling, or other means.
Complexity of Shapes
Parts with complex geometries can be easily machined using CNC machining. However, CNC machining may not be able to handle shapes with a lot of detail or complex curves. For example, dark grooves, deep holes, or internal features that are difficult to cut with ordinary cutting tools. Making complex or very detailed parts can take longer and cost more. This is because they require special tools or extra steps.
Material Limitations
Aluminum, titanium, plastics, and composites are just some of the materials that can be machined on a CNC machine. Some materials may be difficult to machine or require special tools or equipment to machine. Some heat-sensitive materials also change shape during the cutting process, which can affect accuracy.
Size Limitations
There are different types of industrial CNC machines. The largest part of the machine can machine depends on its size. Large or bulky items may be too big to be handled by a regular CNC machine. It is therefore better to use alternative manufacturing methods.
Surface Finishing
Although CNC machining can be very precise and accurate. However, the surface finish may not always be as good as you would like. The surface finish of medical parts must often meet strict standards. This may require additional steps to accomplish, such as cleaning or surface preparation. Adding these extra steps to the process costs more time and money.
Operator Training and Skills
Programming, operating, and maintaining CNC machines requires skilled operators. Since CNC machines are very complex. Therefore a great deal of training and experience is required to create and run CNC machines. It is not easy to find and retain skilled CNC operators. Especially if there are not enough qualified people available.
Conclusion
Medical technology is always advancing. The parts of medical equipment are becoming more and more complex. Parts need to be more precise and smooth. Therefore, CNC machining of medical equipment will become more and more common. Yonglihao Machinery Company specializes in machining mechanical parts. We have years of experience and expertise in CNC machining. If you need machining parts, please contact us. We will provide you with professional services and complete solutions.
FAQ
What materials are typically used for the CNC machining of medical devices?
Materials include titanium, stainless steel, and medical-grade plastics such as PEEK (polyether ether ether ketone).
Materials include titanium, stainless steel, and medical grade plastics such as PEEK (polyether ether ether ketone).
CNC machining uses CAD software. It also uses automation and high-precision equipment. This is done to achieve tight tolerances and consistent quality.
What types of medical devices can be manufactured using CNC machining?
These include surgical instruments, implants, diagnostic equipment and customized prosthetics.
What are the regulatory standards for CNC machining of medical devices?
Standards include ISO 10993 for biocompatibility, ISO 13485, and other medical device regulations.
How can CNC machining improve the cost-effectiveness of medical device manufacturing?
CNC machining reduces overall costs by reducing material waste, enabling small production runs, and minimizing errors.