Customer Requirements: A medical device company was developing a new generation of surgical instruments. They required a batch of highly precise and biocompatible stainless steel parts. These parts included slender shafts with a diameter tolerance of ±0.01mm and complex-shaped connectors with extremely smooth surface finishes to ensure seamless assembly and optimal performance during surgical procedures. The parts also needed to meet strict sterilization and corrosion resistance standards as they would be in direct contact with patients' tissues.
Solutions and Machining Processes:
CNC Lathe for Shaft Machining: The enterprise employed a high-precision CNC lathe to manufacture the slender shafts. The lathe was equipped with a high-resolution spindle and advanced tooling system. Technicians programmed the lathe with optimized cutting parameters to achieve the tight diameter tolerance. A coolant system was used to maintain a stable machining temperature, preventing thermal deformation of the shafts. The surface of the shafts was then polished to a mirror finish to reduce friction and improve biocompatibility.
CNC Milling Machine for Connector Fabrication: For the complex-shaped connectors, a multi-axis CNC milling machine was utilized. The machine was programmed with a 3D model of the connector, enabling it to precisely mill out the intricate geometries. Specialized cutting tools with ultra-fine edges were selected to ensure a smooth surface without any burrs or sharp edges. After milling, the connectors underwent a series of surface treatments including electropolishing to enhance their corrosion resistance and biocompatibility.
Results and Customer Feedback: The machined parts passed all the quality inspections of the medical device company. The surgical instruments assembled with these parts demonstrated excellent performance during clinical trials. The medical device company commended the enterprise for its ability to meet the stringent requirements of the medical industry. They established a long-term partnership, and the enterprise continued to supply components for the company's subsequent product upgrades and new product developments.
