INDUSTRY REPORT
Metal products are used , for example , by the metalforming companies that make the hermetic implantable shields and cans for pacemaker , drug-infusion pumps and electronic implants .
Typically metal , rather than plastic or other material , is chosen for applications that require the highest degree of strength and durability , especially when used for tools or as replacement joints which are subject to a lot of mechanical stress .
Aside from purely mechanical performance , metals used in a healthcare environment must meet specific criteria that most other products do not . For example , they may need to be non-toxic in the presence of human tissue or fluids . Or , they might have to resist chemicals such as detergents and alcohols which are used for cleaning . Metal used for implants must be non-magnetic and noncorrosive , in addition to being non-toxic .
Metals used in global medical markets include titanium ; stainlesssteel ; platinum ; tantalum ; cobalt / chrome and Nitinol . Platinum ’ s biocompatibility makes it suitable for temporary and permanent implantation in the body , a quality which is exploited in a variety of treatments . Although rarely used in medical implants , copper has outstanding antiviral and antibacterial properties and is ideal material for surfaces that are constantly being touched ( such as door handles , bed rails and switches ).
“ While seldom used in direct contact with the body , aluminium is very commonly employed for various types of support equipment that must be light , strong and corrosion-resistant . Examples include bed frames , wheelchairs , walking sticks , orthopaedic supports and IV stands . Since raw aluminium can tarnish or oxidise very easily , aluminium parts are typically painted or anodized for durability ,” commented medical manufacturing specialist , Star Rapid .
The requirements for materials , production quality and process documentation are high , making for a demanding environment for production technology and process planning . To enter the
Advanced metallurgical materials can be engineered , for example , in a range of high-performance alloys that deliver excellent strength-to-weight ratios , biocompatibility and corrosionresistance for medical applications
Above image : Shutterstock . com . marketplace , medical devices must comply with pre-defined product lifecycle parameters intended to maximise patient safety and ensure the highest quality standards .
Pricing and margin pressure from reimbursement and purchasing practices are further driving companies to seek new ways to become more efficient , speed innovation and decrease costs . Manufacturers must now embrace digitalisation to upgrade process capability , manage capacity , reduce cost and help shift their focus from managing compliance and risk to agility and product quality . n
Image : Shutterstock . com .
ISMR March 2024 | ismr . net | 33