In modern medicine, metal can be found everywhere. From the equipment that surgeons use, machines that are a staple in every room, to the implants or valves that help to save lives.
Because of the nature that these instruments or tools are used in, it is incredibly important that they meet the sanitation, reliability, and safety standards. Metal coating services, therefore, play quite the critical role in the quality and performance of a product. Ensuring that it’s clean, protected, and preventing risk are simple requirements to make sure a patient’s life isn’t being endangered.
Biocompatibility also needs to be considered as many of the products – valves, pacemakers, pins, implants – are placed inside the body itself. They cannot afford to pose any risk to the human tissue at all.
Most coatings have to adhere to certifications like ISO: 13485 and ISO: 9001 which ensure that the products have surfaces that are smooth and resistant to rust. Reducing the risk of bacteria forming is also essential because it limits the risk of infections. Plus, it will also reduce the risk of implants that are inserted into the body being rejected.
Unique Metal Finishing Challenges
Throughout the years, technology has consistently been developing. And that includes in the medical industry.
Traditionally, products used in medicine and surgery have been made out of stainless steel or steel variants because of supply and our knowledge of the material being naturally bacteria resistant. But now, other metals are being brought into play.
Titanium, with its light weight and super strength, is becoming commonplace for hip and knee replacements. Along with titanium screws, inserted to help broken bones heal properly. Magnesium is another material that is up and coming in the medical world.
Not only is it a metal that is strong and light weight, but it’s also biodegradable. So researchers are constantly trying to make progress with using magnesium for the manufacturing of implants and orthopaedic devices.
Unfortunately, magnesium and titanium pose more of a challenge than other metals when it comes to coating as it’s more difficult to do.
Coatings in the Medical Industry
Corrosion Resistant
Our corrosion protection coatings are anti-corrosion and can successfully increase the life of components by preventing the onset of corrosion. Because unless managed from the get-go, corrosion is an application and production killer.
Corrosion can lead to extreme failures in component operation or in this instance, can make a product incredibly harmful to a patient’s life as the product itself is contaminated. Plus, the damage it does to equipment is substantial and this will have an effect on flow of work, possibly causing multiple disruptions.
Choosing the right coating (anti-corrosion coating) can help you to avoid failures cause by corrosion.
Non-Stick Coatings
Sticking can sometimes get in the way of product efficiency. It’s a rather inconvenient thing.
And in the medical industry, a non-stick coating guarantees that nothing gets in the way of the task at hand. That could be stitching up wounds, making surgical incisions, or inserting screws and implants. The product needs to be able to perform efficiently without coming into any problems.
Alphatek has developed a range of coating solutions that perform. They’re innovative, effective, and good performers. Delivering the required level of non-stick, these coatings can restore operating efficiency to the product’s application.
Importance of Metal Coatings for Medical Purposes
The right metal coating can help the instrument, product, or equipment to function properly whilst lasting for years. With a metal finish, a metallic product can go years without any wear and tear.
Aside from sometimes being used to improve appearance, metal finishing improves electrical conductivity – something that would be beneficial on a pacemaker – and reduces the risk of many potential threats such as abrasion, friction, corrosion, and bacteria growth.
No matter the goal, to reduce corrosion, bacteria growth, wear and tear, abrasion, friction, etc., the overall outcome is the same. The product will last much longer and be safer to use than a product having no metal finish coatings.
Our Other Industry Applications
Alphatek prides itself on its ability to help customers across industries and applications solve some of their difficult coating problems. We don’t just consult; we provide solutions with our forward-thinking methods. And because we strive to overcome challenges, the harder it is the greater we strive.
Once a client gives us details of their unique requirements, we’ll bring together every department for an initial briefing. Then, our highly experienced, skilled Metallurgist will conduct a full technical assessment with pitched in help.
Our full service R&D service team apply all their industry-leading knowledge and ability to any research project we have. Because if you ask us for bespoke solutions, we aim to deliver.
Here at Alphatek, we’re always open to receiving new clients who present new challengers to us. Every conversation you have with us or request that you make will be handled professionally and fulfilled to a high standard.
Trust in Alphatek
For the best efficiency, rate, and protection, put your trust in Alphatek.
Do you require professionals in thermal spray coating and metal spraying? Well, we can help!
Just get in touch with the team – buzz us on 01706 821 021 or send your emails through to postbox@alphatek.co.uk. Whatever your questions or queries, we’ll give you the assistance and support you’re looking for.
Why not visit us in person? We’re less than 20 miles away from Manchester. You can check out our opening times here to check that nothing’s changed.
