Alberox Offers Metal Injection Molding For Medical Components

Morgan Advanced Ceramics, a provider of engineered solutions using ceramic, glass, metal, and other related materials, offers metal injection molding (MIM) for medical components through its Alberox Products division in New Bedford, MA. Using MIM technology, complex metal shapes are formed from ceramic molds, making it ideal for the manufacture of reliable and durable surgical tools, including laparoscopic parts such as graspers, dissectors, and instrument handles.

The molding process offers the ability to mold cross-drilled holes, radii, blind holes and other difficult-to-machine features with tight tolerances. Parts can often be manufactured in a single process to create a net shape without the need for secondary machining. Compared with traditional methods, including machining, investment casting and stamping, MIM provides a cost-effective manufacturing process for medical components with small, complex geometries, according to Morgan Advanced Ceramics.

The company adds that Alberox Products' MIM technology can manufacture parts in mere seconds, making it ideal for medium-to-high volume production runs of 5,000 to over 1,000,000 pieces. Additionally, each piece is custom-manufactured to meet users' specific needs.

Alberox Products uses MIM technology to produce parts in a variety of metals and alloys, including surgical grade 17-4 PH, which is ideally suited for medical applications. Additional materials include 316L and 304L stainless steels, Kovar, Nickel iron, Tungsten, OHFC copper, Molybdenum copper, and Tungsten alloys. Powdered metals and alloys can also be blended to yield composite materials with special or added qualities.

SOURCE: Morgan Advanced Ceramics