5 Outstanding Benefits of Using Metal in Medical Device Manufacturing
By Aimee Sukol, JD/MA/MS Ed.
Introduction
Considerable advancements in medical device fabrication have introduced different and new materials that provide flexibility, durability, and in some cases, cost efficiency. However, sheet metal continues to serve the medical industry as reliable and highly effective material. In this article, we will explore five reasons why metal fabrication is a valuable benefit to innovations in medical device and equipment and modern science.
First, let’s consider a few factors to consider in medical manufacturing.
Medical device manufacturing carries a considerable degree of liability and regulatory oversight. As needs and laws change, the medical device industry is often under pressure to innovate and introduce new products for use in diverse environments and circumstances. Consequently, materials in medical devices are scrutinized for performance and expense.
Five leading features explain why metal remains prominent in medical device manufacturing:
- Expense
- Regulation
- Demand
- Electrical Conductivity
Seamlessness and Flexibility in Design:
Sheet metal is flexible and easy to work with. Metal doesn’t require mold changes, and embosses and knockouts can be achieved with adjustments to steps in the process without having to switch out parts, sheet metal results in a more flexible and seamless design.
Seamlessness carries several benefits, from faster production and cost-effectiveness to reduced likelihood of production errors.
Durability:
Sheet metal can withstand high temperatures, avoiding fewer retrofits and do-overs that cost companies time and money.
Cost Effective:
As with the flexibility of design, sheet metal involves a seamless process that doesn’t require changing parts. The cost of those parts and the potential for damage and delay reduce costs that are passed onto the customer.
Strength:
A study in The National Library of Medicine (see link below) explored metal’s advantages in bone screws and stents and found that metals showed high strength and corrosion resistance. Metal’s strength reduces instances of product failure, a feature vital to medical device manufacturing.
Electrical conductivity:
Metal is electro-dynamic. Through a series of scientific processes (discussed in the study), metal’s interaction with cells and proteins promotes successful implants. In other words, metal is often more responsive to medical needs and produces successful outcomes for patients than other materials.
Conclusion
Sheet metal fabrication is fundamental to successful developments in medical technology. Metal is durable and robust, which lends itself to easier manufacturing processes. Moreover, metal interacts with cellular processes, which results in successful medical outcomes. While other materials are able to perform similar functions and produce prototypes within short periods of time, metal is excellent for long-term use.
To learn more about Meta Fab’s sheet metal fabrication services, contact visit www.metafab.com.