5-Axis CNC Turning for Medical Device Prototyping: Elevating Precision and Efficiency
Brian Korbelik, Co-Founder of Summit CNC, is an experienced 5-axis CNC turning operator and oversees CNC turning operations at Summit CNC.
At Summit CNC, we know that our customers in the medical device industry demand precision, reliability, and innovation. We understand that when it comes to developing life-saving medical devices, there’s no room for error. Our state-of-the-art 5-axis CNC turning capabilities enable us to deliver the precise, high-quality components required for medical device prototyping.
Experienced in Precision for the Medical Device Industry
Almost all of our customers in the medical device industry require precision tolerances, sometimes as tight as +/- 0.0001". We recognize that any variation can affect the functionality of a device and, ultimately, patient outcomes. Summit CNC, certified under ISO 13485:2016, is uniquely positioned to provide the high level of precision you and your team require.
5-axis CNC turning allows us to machine complex parts that would be impossible or extremely time-consuming with traditional 3-axis machining. By rotating and moving the workpiece and tooling along multiple axes, our machines can reach all sides of a component without needing to stop and reposition it. This minimizes the risk of errors, reduces lead times, and ensures that each part meets the exact specifications of the design.
Advantages of 5-Axis CNC Turning for Medical Device Prototyping
A precision medical component being machined with the use of all 5 axes on the machine.
1. Complex Geometry with Fewer Setups:
One of the most significant advantages of 5-axis CNC turning is the ability to create complex geometries with minimal setups. In medical device prototyping, this means we can quickly and accurately machine intricate parts such as enclosures for diagnostic equipment, rotors for laboratory centrifuges, and components for ventilators and patient monitoring systems. Reducing the number of setups not only improves efficiency but also reduces the chance of error during the machining process.
2. Superior Surface Finish:
Many of the medical components we manufacture require an exceptionally smooth surface finish. Our 5-axis turning centers can achieve the high quality surface finish required for these medical applications, minimizing the need for additional polishing or finishing processes. This ensures that your prototypes are not only dimensionally accurate but also visually and functionally superior.
3. Reduced Lead Times:
We know how critical speed to market is for your team. Summit CNC’s 5-axis CNC turning technology enables us to reduce lead times by efficiently machining complex parts in a single operation. This allows for quicker iterations, enabling designers and engineers to test and refine prototypes faster, ultimately accelerating the path to production.
Prototyping Materials We Machine for the Medical Industry
The materials we machine for medical device prototyping vary widely, from high-strength metals like titanium and stainless steel to specialized plastics like PEEK and Ultem. Summit CNC has extensive experience working with these materials, ensuring that your prototypes are not only machined to precision but also built from the right materials to meet the demands of their medical application.
This particular part, made from 4140 steel, has a number of precision tolerances, some of them as tight as +/-0.00025" (0.00635mm).
Why Partner with Summit CNC for Medical Device Prototyping?
At Summit CNC, we understand the unique challenges of machining for the medical industry. Our 5-axis CNC turning and milling capabilities, along with our ISO 13485:2016 certification, give our customers confidence that their prototypes will meet the highest quality standards. Whether you're developing housings for diagnostic equipment or components for patient monitoring systems, you can trust us to provide the precision and speed required to bring your innovations to life.
We work closely with our clients during the prototyping phase to ensure that every part is machined to perfection. From concept to completion, our team is committed to delivering the best results—every time.
Contact Us
Are you developing a new medical device prototype? Contact Summit CNC today to learn how our advanced 5-axis CNC turning capabilities can help you bring your medical innovations to market faster, with unparalleled precision and quality. We are here to support you at every step of the prototyping process, ensuring that your parts are machined to exact specifications for optimum performance.