There are many advantages to using CNC Machining. Because of the precision possible with CNC Machining, this process can produce complex shapes that would be almost impossible to achieve with manual machining. CNC Machining is used in the production of many complex three-dimensional shapes. It is because of these qualities that CNC Machining is used in jobs that need a high level of precision. One industry that requires precision machining is the medical implant device industry.
Medical Machining
Today most manufacturers of medical implant devices are machining PEEK. That’s because the medical industry has found medical-grade PEEK offers excellent strength, wear resistance and biocompatibility for components such as the dental healing caps, spiked washers and spinal implants. PEEK is showing up in an increasing number of medical shops all over the country.
What is PEEK
PEEK polymer is available in two basic grades. One is industrial. The other is medical. Industrial-grade. PEEK is a strong thermoplastic that retains its mechanical properties even at elevated temperatures. The flame-retardant material is abrasion resistant, has high impact strength and a low coefficient of friction. Industrial-grade PEEK components are used in the aerospace, automotive, chemical, electronics, petroleum, and food and beverage industries.
Medical-Grade Quality
Medical-grade PEEK possesses those same physical properties in addition to biocompatibility, high chemical resistance and compatibility with several different sterilization methods. It is also naturally radio-translucent when viewed using X-ray, MRI or computer tomography. This provides doctors with an unobstructed view of tissue and bone growth around the PEEK implant during the healing process.
Machining PEEK
Shops typically receive PEEK in the form of rods that can range from 6 mm to 150 mm in diameter. Before machining, the material must be stress-relieved through an annealing process. This decreases the likelihood that heat generated during the cuts will form surface cracks and internal stresses. PEEK components that will undergo long stretches of machining time may require additional intermediate annealing steps. Some shops will anneal the workpiece once more before taking finishing passes to prevent crack formation.
Required Precautions
As with all medical components, precautions must be taken to prevent surface contamination of PEEK workpieces. One precautionary measure is to dedicate the machine tool to machining only that material. Some shops also insist their employees use gloves when handling PEEK to keep oils off the part surface.
