3D-pc technology answers medical device demands

With the accelerated growth of minimally invasive surgery (MIS), there is an increasing need for high precision bespoke metallic components for laparoscopic instruments.

With the accelerated growth of minimally invasive surgery (MIS), there is an increasing need for high precision bespoke metallic components for laparoscopic instruments - a need that Precision Micro of Birmingham has addressed using 3D-pc technology.

3D-pc technology uses a combination of phototooling and standard, modular press tooling to manufacture high precision, three-dimensional metal components in the shortest possible time frames.

When a leading manufacturer of bipolar electrosurgery systems needed miniature components for a laparoscopic instrument, Precision Micro's engineers were able to assist in optimising the design for 3D-PC manufacturing in medical grade stainless steel; supplying prototypes in a matter of days.

The high precision tip component, used to hold the vented electrode insulator in place was first profiled using precision photo etching techniques and subsequently formed using readily available standard modular tooling.

This high speed, low cost approach ensured short timescales were met without the cost of progressive press tooling.

A further internal component was designed and manufactured with highly precise 0.254mm holes to accommodate the electrode wires through which the bipolar current passes.

The instrument, specifically designed for haemostasis and tissue transaction functions, is used extensively in joint arthroscopy and is reported to have already benefited many professional athletes and sports people, including a triple Olympic gold medal winner.

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