• Login
    • Join
  • FOLLOW:
  • Subscribe Free
    • Magazine
    • eNewsletter
    Checkout
    • Magazine
    • News
    • Opinions
    • Top 30
    • Research
    • Supply Chain
    • Device Sectors
    • Directory
    • Events
    • Resources
    • Microsites
    • More
  • Magazine
  • News
  • Opinions
  • Top 30
  • Research
  • Supply Chain
  • Device Sectors
  • Directory
  • Events
  • Resources
  • Microsites
  • Current / Back Issues
    Features
    Editorial
    Digital Edition
    eNewsletter Archive
    Our Team
    Editorial Guidelines
    Reprints
    Subscribe Now
    Advertise Now
    Top Features
    Deep (Brain) Thoughts with Medtronic's Neuromodulation President

    Grab and Go: Examining the Thrombectomy Device Market

    Fine Print: A Discourse on Additive Manufacturing

    MPO's 2022 Medtech Industry Year in Review

    Micro Molding for Medtech Is Miniature Magic
    OEM News
    Supplier News
    Service / Press Releases
    Online Exclusives
    Press Releases
    People in the News
    Product & Service Releases
    Supplier News
    Medtech Makers
    Technical Features
    International News
    Videos
    Product & Service Releases
    Live From Shows
    Regulatory
    Financial/Business
    Top News
    BMP Medical Expands Sterling, Massachusetts Facility

    Abbott's Proclaim XR SCS OK'ed for Diabetic Neuropathy

    Environmental Sustainability Becoming Increasingly Important to Medtech Industry

    Duane DiFranco Joins Harvard MedTech’s Medical Advisory Board

    Lionel Bonte Named President of Mativ’s Healthcare and Wellness Business Unit
    From the Editor
    Blogs
    Guest Opinions
    Top Opinions
    Deep (Brain) Thoughts with Medtronic's Neuromodulation President

    Grab and Go: Examining the Thrombectomy Device Market

    Fine Print: A Discourse on Additive Manufacturing

    MPO's 2022 Medtech Industry Year in Review

    Micro Molding for Medtech Is Miniature Magic
    Top 30 Medical Device Companies
    Market Data
    White Papers
    Top Research
    Reflections on 2022 and What’s Ahead for Medtech: MPO Sounding Board

    3 Ways to Prepare for ISO 13485/Part 820 Harmonization

    A New Home for Theranos' Elizabeth Holmes?

    Health Cost Drivers for Large Employers

    Braving Change: Facing Fears in the Midst of Major Transitions
    3D/Additive Manufacturing
    Contract Manufacturing
    Electronics
    Machining & Laser Processing
    Materials
    Molding
    Packaging & Sterilization
    R&D & Design
    Software & IT
    Testing
    Tubing & Extrusion
    Cardiovascular
    Diagnostics
    Digital Health
    Neurological
    Patient Monitoring
    Surgical
    Orthopedics
    All Companies
    Categories
    Company Capabilities
    Add New Company
    Outsourcing Directory
    Arthur G. Russell Co. Inc., The

    NDH Medical Inc.

    Halkey-Roberts Corporation

    LEMO USA Inc.

    Fusion Biotec Inc.
    MPO Summit
    Industry Events
    Webinars
    Live From Show Event
    Industry Associations
    Videos
    Career Central
    eBook
    Slideshows
    Top Resources
    How Artificial Intelligence Can Combat Key Issues Impacting Healthcare

    Why Advanced Sensors Are Crucial Within Medical Pumps

    How Artificial Intelligence Could Help Prevent 80% of Chronic Diseases

    4 Ways to Use Injection Molding in Medical Device Manufacturing

    Telemedicine and Connectivity to Drive Material Innovation in the Near Future
    Companies
    News Releases
    Product Releases
    Press Releases
    Product Spec Sheets
    Service Releases
    Case Studies
    White Papers
    Brochures
    Videos
    Outsourcing Directory
    Arthur G. Russell Co. Inc., The

    NDH Medical Inc.

    Halkey-Roberts Corporation

    LEMO USA Inc.

    Fusion Biotec Inc.
    • Magazine
      • Current/Back Issues
      • Features
      • Editorial
      • Columns
      • Digital Editions
      • Subscribe Now
      • Advertise Now
    • News
    • Directory
      • All Companies
      • ALL CATEGORIES
      • Industry Associations
      • Company Capabilities
      • Add Your Company
    • Supply Chain
      • 3D/Additive Manufacturing
      • Contract Manufacturing
      • Electronics
      • Machining & Laser Processing
      • Materials
      • Molding
      • Packaging & Sterilization
      • R&D & Design
      • Software & IT
      • Testing
      • Tubing & Extrusion
    • Device Sectors
      • Cardiovascular
      • Diagnostics
      • Digital Health
      • Neurological
      • Patient Monitoring
      • Surgical
      • Orthopedics
    • Top 30 Company Report
    • Expert Insights
    • Slideshows
    • Videos
    • eBook
    • Resources
    • Podcasts
    • Infographics
    • Whitepapers
    • Research
      • White Papers
      • Case Studies
      • Product Spec Sheets
      • Market Data
    • MPO Summit
    • Events
      • Industry Events
      • Live From Show Events
      • Webinars
    • Microsite
      • Companies
      • Product Releases
      • Product Spec Sheets
      • Services
      • White Papers / Tech Papers
      • Press Releases
      • Videos
      • Literature / Brochures
      • Case Studies
    • About Us
      • About Us
      • Contact Us
      • Advertise with Us
      • eNewsletter Archive
      • Privacy Policy
      • Terms of Use
    Online Exclusives

    Medical Device Machining: A Discussion with Weiss-Aug

    High-precision machining has significantly evolved from the lathes and mills of years past.

    Medical Device Machining: A Discussion with Weiss-Aug
    Miniature precision laser cut details showing capabilities for micro-shapes. All images courtesy of Weiss-Aug.
    Related CONTENT
    • Viant
    • Subtractive Solutions: Modern Machining Techniques and Technologies
    • Medical Device Machining: A Dialogue with Laser Light Technologies
    • Medical Device Machining: A Conversation with ARCOR Laser
    • Smooth Operator: Addressing Machining's Talent Gap
    Sam Brusco, Associate Editor02.11.19
    To most, the idea of working in a factory crafting components seems unattractive. Working in a “machine shop” can call to mind images of working in a dark factory all day, manufacturing part after part in a monotonous haze.
     
    However, this couldn’t be farther from the truth when it comes to machining parts for the medical device industry. High-precision machining has significantly evolved from the lathes and mills of years past. Modern Swiss machines reach as high as 13-axis to make parts with complex geometries and can be programmed for optimal speeds and feeds. Hybrid manufacturing techniques are merging CNC machining with the additive laser sintering process. Multiple spindle machining is able to complete parts in a single setup, and some machines include capabilities like turning with live tooling and wire EDM. Laser machining continues to expand as well. Device manufacturers and their contract manufacturers rely on laser systems to make precise components with high levels of speed and accuracy, often at extremely low tolerances.
     
    To gain more insight into the medical device machining industry, I spoke with Anthony Sanzari, VP Surgical Products of Weiss-Aug. The Surgical Products Division of The Weiss-Aug Group is focused on the development and manufacture of device components and assemblies used in surgical instrumentation. The breadth of his input was not included in the recent feature article entitled “Smooth Operator: Addressing Machining’s Talent Gap” (which can be read here), so the entirety of our discussion is included in the Q&A below.
     
    Brusco: What are the most exciting recent advances in machining technology? 
    Sanzari: Integration of advanced processing options, software improvements, and the creation of hybrid systems are some of the most exciting advances in machining technology. Further integration of 4th and 5th axis capabilities to standard equipment platforms, integration of metrology including optics, lasers, and touch-probes to further accuracy/repeatability of these systems, and higher fidelity software including simulation steps to optimize the fabrication process are all major recent advances. Hybrid systems combining additive manufacturing with traditional CNC machining and/or laser system integration is allowing us to deliver miniature, high-precision components to medical device OEMs in record time. These were previously multi-step operations that required fixturing and moving of parts between work centers, which now can be finished in a single setup. 


    High tolerance stainless steel laser cut assembly rings.
     
    Brusco: How is the technology evolving to meet the needs of medical device manufacturers? 
    Sanzari: Medical device OEMs are looking for methods to improve their time to market (TTM), and for cost-effective prototype and manufacturing methods to support low- to mid-volume products. With a greater focus on more intelligent/complex devices customized to specific procedures, while still maintaining a minimally invasive envelope, advanced machining technologies are key to this evolution. We have collected feedback from medical device customers and have included those latest technologies in our portfolio, which will allow us to deliver on those market requirements. An example of this is the creation of our Laser Application Lab, within our Surgical Products Division, and the creation of an R&D group focused exclusively on finding new equipment, software, advanced materials, and technologies that will drive innovation through all areas of our organization.

    Brusco: Which services do you offer for medical device customers beyond machining? 
    Sanzari: The Weiss-Aug Group offers a large portfolio of engineering, design, and manufacturing services through our multiple divisions. Through our different teams, we offer product design support, tooling, program management, advanced metrology, prototyping, injection and insert molding, precision metal stamping, and component assembly, including automated, semi-automated, and manual, low-cost options through our facility in Mexico. In addition, we have advanced application labs in precision-CNC, materials, and Laser Applications to support development needs. Why is it important to offer these services? It is critical to offer a full solution, or “one-stop shop,” as it is imperative to be involved in all aspects of product design from early concept through mature manufacture. This involvement is critical to ensure a strong knowledge base is formed which can optimize products for TTM, cost, quality, and overall manufacturability. We view ourself not only as a CM but a true partner in the process, with our team taking on a high level of ownership and accountability. Without having the portfolio of technologies and expertise in house, we could not deliver on the level of service our medical device OEMs have come to expect.
     
    Brusco: Which advances in laser processing technology have been most beneficial for manufacturing medical device parts, and why?
    Sanzari: We have created a Laser Applications Lab that specializes in supporting the requirements of medical device OEMs. Our capabilities and technologies are focused on delivery of high quality, high precision components and sub-assemblies. Significant advances have been made in the types of materials we are able to process in the lab (adding plastics, ceramics, and glasses to our existing portfolio of metals). Our newest laser equipment has hardware and optics improvements that further the accuracy of the laser systems (tolerances as tight as +/- 0.0005”). Integration of metrology capabilities into the laser systems has improved part-to-part and feature-to-feature repeatability. Scanning head technology has vastly improved our layered engraving and etching capabilities—that has improved to a level of refinement that can now rival conventional EDM or chemical etching, without the need of additional tooling, from a quality perspective. Our lab has expertise in a broad range of laser systems and laser applications including cutting, joining (welding), marking, and precision depth etching.
     
    Brusco: Which types of medical device part manufacturing projects does your company find to be most challenging, and why? 
    Sanzari: Medical device OEMs that work with us typically bring their challenging parts, as we take on those difficult designs. Product miniaturization has posed a significant challenge, as processing materials less than or equal to .001” requires a non-standard means of fabrication. Materials are pushed to their physical limits for the required customer geometries, and at times the energy required to process the material makes it nearly impossible to handle in fixturing or manufacturing processes. Our team is continuously working on advanced means for handling these miniature, highly specialized applications.


    Laser cut stainless steel part for secondary operations, with sharp tips and close proximity beams.
     
    Sam Brusco: It has been said that the machining trade is struggling to attract new talented craftsmen. Have you found this to be true for your company? If so, why do you believe it is occurring and what steps does your company take to attract talent? If not, how have you been successful in attracting new talent? 
    Anthony Sanzari: We have been growing at an unprecedented rate. In general, finding strong, talented individuals with technical and engineering backgrounds is a challenge. Fortunately, our organization has a strong, well-established base that is leading the industry both in learning the latest advances in machining and laser technologies and in the development of more junior talent in these key areas. We invest in apprenticeship and mentorship programs, whereby our apprentices gain experience in all aspects of product manufacture, including our design, tooling, precision-CNC, EDM, and Laser Technology Programs. Additionally, through heavy capital investment and continued training, we have created a culture of innovation that attracts and retains talent. We offer these team members state-of-the-art equipment, software, and a “technology-based” infrastructure that rivals larger medical device OEMs. This strategy ensures we have proper resources to sustain our growth and meet our customer requirements, both for today and the future.
     
    Brusco: What will be expected of machinists in the coming years to ensure robust medical device part production?
    Sanzari: Machinists will need to continue to train on the latest technologies (both hardware and software) to remain current as additive manufacturing and laser technologies continue to improve and replace more traditional methods. Working in solids, in multi-axis spatial geometry, and being versed in multiple technologies will be key to long-term success. 
     
    Brusco: Is there anything else you’d like to say regarding machining for medical device manufacturing, or are there any particularly important topics within the machining/laser processing sector that I have not asked about that you feel MPO readers should know?
    Sanzari: In many cases, machining and laser technologies offer an advantage for new products and programs, specifically in the areas of prototyping and low-volume production. The investment of capital for traditional methods of product manufacture (dedicated tooling) is significantly higher than the one-time capital investment for machining technologies that can produce a multitude of parts. This is one of the many variables that must be considered when determining the right solution for a particular product and medical device OEM’s requirements. We have expertise in many disciplines, and our teams are able to help customers make the right selection for technologies to ensure success in their programs.
    Related Searches
    • mpo
    • medical
    • additive manufacturing
    • evolution
    Related Knowledge Center
    • Machining & Laser Processing
    Suggested For You
    Viant Viant
    Subtractive Solutions: Modern Machining Techniques and Technologies Subtractive Solutions: Modern Machining Techniques and Technologies
    Medical Device Machining: A Dialogue with Laser Light Technologies Medical Device Machining: A Dialogue with Laser Light Technologies
    Medical Device Machining: A Conversation with ARCOR Laser Medical Device Machining: A Conversation with ARCOR Laser
    Smooth Operator: Addressing Machining Smooth Operator: Addressing Machining's Talent Gap
    The Sun Will Shine Again: Preparing for Change The Sun Will Shine Again: Preparing for Change
    Layering Metal: Additive Manufacturing in Medtech Layering Metal: Additive Manufacturing in Medtech
    Organizational and Regulatory Influences on Creating and Sustaining an Effective QMS Organizational and Regulatory Influences on Creating and Sustaining an Effective QMS
    Images from Medica/Compamed 2018, Wrap Up Images from Medica/Compamed 2018, Wrap Up
    Images from Medica/Compamed 2018, Day 2 Images from Medica/Compamed 2018, Day 2
    Images from Medica/Compamed 2018, Day 1 Images from Medica/Compamed 2018, Day 1
    5 Questions from the Booth: NuSil, part of Avantor 5 Questions from the Booth: NuSil, part of Avantor
    How Medical Device Quality Teams Can Navigate Digital Transformation How Medical Device Quality Teams Can Navigate Digital Transformation
    Making Sense of Medtech M&A and Trade Wars Making Sense of Medtech M&A and Trade Wars
    MPO Summit 2018 Conference Program Notebook MPO Summit 2018 Conference Program Notebook

    Related Buyers Guide Companies

    • Viant

      Viant

      ...
      Beth Meyer, Sr Director, Strategic Marketing 11.10.20

    • Machining & Laser Processing
      Subtractive Solutions: Modern Machining Techniques and Technologies

      Subtractive Solutions: Modern Machining Techniques and Technologies

      New developments in machining enable unprecedented levels of miniaturization for medical device manufacturers.
      Mark Crawford, Contributing Writer 09.01.20

    • Machining & Laser Processing
      Medical Device Machining: A Dialogue with Laser Light Technologies

      Medical Device Machining: A Dialogue with Laser Light Technologies

      High-precision machining has significantly evolved from the lathes and mills of years past.
      Sam Brusco, Associate Editor 02.11.19


    • Machining & Laser Processing
      Medical Device Machining: A Conversation with ARCOR Laser

      Medical Device Machining: A Conversation with ARCOR Laser

      High-precision machining has significantly evolved from the lathes and mills of years past.
      Sam Brusco, Associate Editor 02.11.19

    • 3D/Additive Manufacturing | Contract Manufacturing | Machining & Laser Processing | Materials
      Smooth Operator: Addressing Machining

      Smooth Operator: Addressing Machining's Talent Gap

      Skilled machinists must be cultivated through education and apprenticeships to gain complete knowledge of their tools and craft.
      Sam Brusco, Associate Editor 01.30.19

    Loading, Please Wait..

    Trending
    • Study: Catheter Ablation Significantly Lowers Dementia Risk In AFib Patients
    • Tandem Diabetes Completes Deal For AMF Medical
    • BMP Medical Expands Sterling, Massachusetts Facility
    • The Future Of Biomedical Engineering Advancements
    • Abbott's Proclaim XR SCS OK'ed For Diabetic Neuropathy
    Breaking News
    • BMP Medical Expands Sterling, Massachusetts Facility
    • Abbott's Proclaim XR SCS OK'ed for Diabetic Neuropathy
    • Environmental Sustainability Becoming Increasingly Important to Medtech Industry
    • Duane DiFranco Joins Harvard MedTech’s Medical Advisory Board
    • Lionel Bonte Named President of Mativ’s Healthcare and Wellness Business Unit
    View Breaking News >
    CURRENT ISSUE

    November 2022

    • MPO's 2022 Year in Review
    • Fine Print: A Discourse on Additive Manufacturing
    • Grab and Go: Examining the Thrombectomy Device Market
    • View More >

    Cookies help us to provide you with an excellent service. By using our website, you declare yourself in agreement with our use of cookies.
    You can obtain detailed information about the use of cookies on our website by clicking on "More information”.

    • About Us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms And Conditions
    • Contact Us

    follow us

    Subscribe
    Nutraceuticals World

    Latest Breaking News From Nutraceuticals World

    Vitamin D Supplementation Reduces Risk of Dynapenia
    Sustained-Release Caffeine Ingredient Offers Mood, Performance Benefits
    Multi-Strain Probiotic Improves Self-Reported Mood, Sleep, Serotonin Levels
    Coatings World

    Latest Breaking News From Coatings World

    Epoxytec Announces New Website Launch
    Paints and Coatings Market Worth $212B by 2026: MarketsandMarkets
    Axalta Releases Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2022 Results
    Medical Product Outsourcing

    Latest Breaking News From Medical Product Outsourcing

    BMP Medical Expands Sterling, Massachusetts Facility
    Abbott's Proclaim XR SCS OK'ed for Diabetic Neuropathy
    Environmental Sustainability Becoming Increasingly Important to Medtech Industry
    Contract Pharma

    Latest Breaking News From Contract Pharma

    Pasithea Signs CMC Development and Manufacturing Agreement
    Experic Expands Analytical Capabilities and Facilities
    List Labs Expands Manufacturing Capacity
    Beauty Packaging

    Latest Breaking News From Beauty Packaging

    Haircare Brand Uncle Funky’s Daughter Announces Retail Expansion
    TRESemmé Introduces New Pro Infusion Collection
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Shares 2022 ESG Report
    Happi

    Latest Breaking News From Happi

    KimChi Beauty Launches Spinning Hearts Love 02 Ahead of Valentine’s Day
    Dark & Lovely Names Actress Meagan Good Brand Ambassador
    Natural Household Care Company Tru Earth Adds Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
    Ink World

    Latest Breaking News From Ink World

    Xerox Releases 4Q, Full-Year 2022 Results
    Electronics For Imaging Names Frank Pennisi as CEO
    Fiery to Separate from EFI, Remain Wholly-Owned by Siris
    Label & Narrow Web

    Latest Breaking News From Label & Narrow Web

    EFI appoints Frank Pennisi CEO, Fiery now an independent business
    Bobst boosts senior sales team with Keith Nagle
    Penmar Industries adds Screen Truepress Jet L350UV SAI digital press
    Nonwovens Industry

    Latest Breaking News From Nonwovens Industry

    Essity’s Sales Grow
    Thinx to Pay up to $5 million to Settle Class Action Suit
    Typar Highlighting New Building Innovations
    Orthopedic Design & Technology

    Latest Breaking News From Orthopedic Design & Technology

    Orthofix Launches the Mariner Deformity System
    Tyber Medical Hires 2 New Execs
    Miach Ortho Raises $40M in Series B Funding
    Printed Electronics Now

    Latest Breaking News From Printed Electronics Now

    Smart Devices with Privacy Focus Have More Consumer Appeal
    Siman Group Partners with SML to Unlock Full Retail Potential with RFID
    Brewer Science Presents Optics Integration Solutions at SPIE Photonics West

    Copyright © 2023 Rodman Media. All rights reserved. Use of this constitutes acceptance of our privacy policy The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Rodman Media.

    AD BLOCKER DETECTED

    Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors.
    Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker.


    FREE SUBSCRIPTION Already a subscriber? Login