Injection moulding is one of the most commonly used methods used to produce parts for the medical industry, whether for machines, syringes, surgical instruments, tubes or implantable components, among others. Several of these items are, however, non-reusable, which means a continuous need is faced to produce new units.
The production of a single mould employs several processes to be used so as to ensure that the part produced meets precise sizing specifications and is entirely functional. Once created, each part is also subjected to strict quality controls to provide exceptional levels of precision.
In the healthcare industry, just as in the automobile industry, moulds are used to produce parts made of plastic, therefore reducing the weight of end products, which in turn makes them easier for healthcare professionals to use.
Although parts produced for the healthcare industry are required to meet certain specifications, the list of materials that do so is extensive, therefore providing a choice as to the flexibility, durability, and colour of the materials selected.
Parts produced for the healthcare sector must be resistant to pollutants. When resistant in this way, reusable components can therefore be sterilised and used again safely. When used for medical devices, injection moulding requires extreme care to be taken, as the parts produced may determine whether patients live or die. As such, several factors must be taken into account.
Each material provides differing characteristics, with some being better than others, depending on what they will be used for. For the best results, the choice of materials must be planned carefully in advance.
It is essential that objects used in the healthcare industry can be sterilised. The choice of the most suitable material rests on its properties, which must be taken into account.
Many objects used in healthcare are constantly exposed to high pressure, high temperatures, corrosive liquids and vibrations. Durability and adaptability to extreme environments are factors that must be considered in choosing the most appropriate materials. For all these reasons, the production of medical equipment requires maximum precision, as these materials can make all the difference in saving a patient’s life.
Having operated in the mould sector for over 30 years, Rectimold‘s multidisciplinary, experienced team has always been a class above the rest. Get in touch.
