Five Reasons To Consider Micro 3D Printing

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Have you considered 3D printing miniature micro mechanical components or assemblies for your medical device?

Here are five reasons why now might be the time to do so.

1. Fuel Innovation

The impact of 3D printing on accelerating innovation for minimally invasive devices and surgical robotics can’t be overstated. It opens up a world of possibilities to Engineers, who now have the freedom to design lightweight, complex geometries that would otherwise be impossible to machine. 3D printing also offers the advantage of printing functional, movable micro assemblies in one step. In the development phase, when you might want to prove out several iterations of your concept, multiple custom designs can be built on a single platform at the same time.

2. Quality and Precision

The tolerances we can hold on a wide range of metal and ceramic micro parts is nothing short of awesome!

  • Accuracy ± 5 μm up to 10 mm
  • 18 μm laser spot size
  • >20 μm wall thickness
  • Small size holes Ø <100 μm
  • Surface roughness without post processing: Ra 2,0 μm; Rz 13 μm
  • Surface roughness after post processing: Ra 0,7 μm; Rz 2,7 μm

3. Lower Cost and Faster Speed To Market

Micro laser sintering is cost efficient for small series runs. There are no tooling costs and you can get quick feasibility feedback for your proof of concept, with functional prototypes in just a few weeks.

4. Proven Technology

Surgical robotics companies and the top medical device OEMs are already using this proprietary technology for a range of applications including:

  • End effectors, such as soft tissue graspers
  • Joints, links and catheter tips used in steerable instruments
  • Electrodes for endoscopic surgery
  • Insulators for electro-surgical endoscopes
  • Small implant housings

5. Full Engineering Support

Precipart has a dedicated team of micro manufacturing medical technology development experts ready to optimize your initial design concept, advise on material selection, and find ways to drive cost out of components and assemblies. They are passionate about partnering with innovative companies and advancing medical technology for improved patient outcomes.

If you would like to contact an Engineer for more information or submit a drawing or CAD file for review, please do so here: http://bit.ly/2XkEojV

   

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