Medical wire forms are a critical component for a broad range of medical devices, including but not limited to drug delivery systems, surgical tools, diagnostic equipment and respiratory devices. The specific surface finishing applied to these wire shapes is crucial as it directly affects their durability, performance, antimicrobial properties and ability to perform their desired function in the specific device.
The right surface finish ensures that wire shapes can withstand the rigorous conditions of use without degradation, improve their antimicrobial properties and increase longevity whilst also adhering to the exacting standards required for medical device approval. This is particularly crucial in an industry where manufacturing repeatability and adherence to stringent medical trials are non-negotiable.
What surface finishes are possible for wire forms?
The performance and compliance of medical wire forms are significantly enhanced by careful application of surface finishing techniques. These methods are selected based on the wire form’s material, design and the device's specific requirements.
- Passivation: Stainless steel wire forms benefit greatly from passivation, which removes surface contaminants and enhances corrosion resistance. This process is vital for devices that encounter bodily fluids or are subject to rigorous sterilisation.
- Electroplating: Through electroplating, a metal layer is added to the wire shape’s surface, improving wear and corrosion resistance and enhancing surface properties. Silver and nickel are key examples, with the former providing enhanced lubricity and the latter enhancing corrosion and wear resistance.
- Oiling: Applying a lubricative coating, oiling minimises friction and wear, preserving the wire form's integrity throughout manufacturing and use. This finishing technique is crucial for maintaining the form's condition during and after processing.
What should be considered when choosing a surface finish for a wire form?
While surface finishing techniques offer numerous benefits, the process of applying these finishes can introduce challenges, particularly for wire forms with intricate designs or tight tolerances:
Deformation risks
The process of applying certain finishes can risk deforming wire shapes, particularly those requiring intensive post-processing. This necessitates specialised handling and techniques to ensure the finish enhances rather than compromises the wire form’s integrity.
Damage during post-processing
Wire forms are vulnerable to damage during handling and post-processing steps. Specialised protocols must be in place to avoid issues like deformation or entanglement, ensuring the finished product retains its precise dimensions and functionality.
The value of an integrated solutions partner
In navigating the complexities of surface finishing for medical wire forms, the expertise of a specialised partner becomes invaluable. They provide a suite of integrated services designed to streamline your manufacturing workflow and accelerate market readiness.
An integrated partner serves as an essential extension of your engineering team. Specialising in expertise and guidance to overcome complex post-processing challenges, they help significantly reduce scrap rates and enhance overall manufacturing productivity. This comprehensive approach ensures high-quality outputs and complete compliance without compromising on the structural integrity of your wire shapes.
Partner with experts to find the perfect material for your medical wire form
Choosing the right surface finishes for medical wire forms and implementing them effectively is essential for their success in medical devices. But this is easier said than done, and the challenges associated with their post-processing highlight the need for specialised expertise and partnering with an experienced manufacturer.
Advanex Medical stands as a prime example of such a partner, offering unparalleled professional expertise in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sphere. Our comprehensive understanding of medical wire forms places us as leaders in the industry, providing solutions that enhance manufacturing repeatability, facilitate the passage through rigorous medical trials and optimise production with minimal scrap rates. Our dedication to precision, quality and efficiency makes us an indispensable ally for pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Our expertise in creating bespoke wire form solutions for a variety of medical devices positions us as leaders in the field. To find out how we can provide this same service for you and your medical device, get in touch with one of our experts.
