• 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
    Superior Subtractive Solutions for Machining Medtech

    Assembly & Automation Experts Share Thoughts on Medtech Trends

    Power Trip: A Discussion of Custom Medical Electronics

    The MDR Transition: An Opportunity for Design Change?

    Preserve and Protect: Sustainability Initiatives for Medtech Manufacturing
    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
    Heather Danks Named Chief Technology Officer at LEX Diagnostics

    Vitalchat Awarded Patent for Patient Monitoring, Bandwidth Conservation Tech

    South Korean Regulators Authorize Expanded NeuroStar TMS Indications

    Ian T. Meredith Joins Avertix Medical’s Board

    Hologic, Bayer Team Up for Contrast-Enhanced Mammography
    From the Editor
    Blogs
    Guest Opinions
    Top Opinions
    Superior Subtractive Solutions for Machining Medtech

    Assembly & Automation Experts Share Thoughts on Medtech Trends

    Power Trip: A Discussion of Custom Medical Electronics

    The MDR Transition: An Opportunity for Design Change?

    Preserve and Protect: Sustainability Initiatives for Medtech Manufacturing
    Top 30 Medical Device Companies
    Market Data
    White Papers
    Top Research
    Medtech’s Most Powerful M&A Drivers

    The Link Between Medtech and Connected Medical Devices

    Is the FTC Partly Responsible for Muted M&A Activity?

    Holistic Risk Management: Navigating the Future’s Uncertainties

    Defining End of Life for Medical Devices
    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
    NDH Medical Inc.

    Arthur G. Russell Co. Inc., The

    Cirtec Medical

    Medbio LLC

    LEMO USA Inc.
    MPO Summit
    Industry Events
    Webinars
    Live From Show Event
    Industry Associations
    Videos
    Career Central
    eBook
    Slideshows
    Top Resources
    A One-Stop-Shop, Turnkey Solution Is Paramount for Success

    How Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing Are Revolutionizing the Medical Device Industry

    Medical Device Commercialization: It’s What, Not When, to Transfer to Manufacturing

    How In Silico Simulations Can Slash Medical Device Development Risk

    The Top 7 AI Applications Transforming Medical Device Manufacturing
    Companies
    News Releases
    Product Releases
    Press Releases
    Product Spec Sheets
    Service Releases
    Case Studies
    White Papers
    Brochures
    Videos
    Outsourcing Directory
    NDH Medical Inc.

    Arthur G. Russell Co. Inc., The

    Cirtec Medical

    Medbio LLC

    LEMO USA 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

    A Primer on the Benefits of Metal Injection Molding

    High volume, high performance, complex surgical instrument parts are achievable at an affordable cost with the fabrication process.

    A Primer on the Benefits of Metal Injection Molding
    An assortment of parts made via metal injection molding.
    Steve Santoro, EVP, MICRO10.13.20
    Today, medical device manufacturers are able to produce high-performance, complex geometric parts and components for surgical instruments at high volumes cost effectively using a metal injection molding (MIM) process. This flexible, hybrid technology should be part of any full-service contract manufacturer organization’s (CMO) offerings for its ability to deliver high-quality medical device parts consistently using a single manufacturing process.

    Demand for lightweight disposable surgical devices has been steadily increasing as hospitals see a distinct cost advantage for off-the-shelf, single-use products that do not require sterilization. With COVID-19, disposable sterile solutions that can help minimize risk of infection transmission in the hospital offer a safer alternative versus reusable instruments that undergo repeated use and sterilization. CMOs and their original equipment manufacturer partners (OEMs) can work together to address changing market needs with innovative technology, and MIM can help manufacturers meet the increased demand.

    Both MIM and traditional machining processes can be used to produce medical device components effectively and efficiently. MIM does not replace machining but it offers distinct advantages for certain high-volume, high precision projects where parts may be smaller and require more maneuverability along with strong mechanical properties.

    The MIM Process
    The MIM process is similar to plastic injection molding, but with metal feedstock. It integrates the shaping capability of plastic injection molding and materials flexibility of conventional powder metallurgy to efficiently produce small complex parts at high volumes using high temperature and pressure. The process uses combinations of metal powder and plastic binders that are blended and compounded so an injection moldable feedstock can be produced to fabricate the part.

    Using an injection molding machine, the parts produced are then subjected to a binder removal process. Depending upon the type of binder used, different methods of debinding are applied, and a thermal process to remove polymer is applied. The parts, after debinding, then go through a sintering process to ensure the right material composition, physical properties, and correct geometry. Newly molded parts are the shape of the final part but larger. The sintering process allows controlled shrinkage by 15 to 25 percent of full density. The end result is a net shape part. Further post-processing may be needed to arrive at the final part.

    MIM Versus Machining: Factors to Consider
    CMOs should consider several factors when determining whether to use MIM versus traditional machining, as both have advantages and disadvantages depending on each project scope and requirements. With MIM, components can be produced in a single manufacturing process. Machining and other technologies typically use multiple processes and require secondary operations, which require more labor. MIM may have several distinct advantages when considering the following factors:
    • Volume: MIM is cost-effective when large volumes are needed and lends itself well to automation where high volumes, tight tolerances, and consistent quality are required. In contrast, machining is more cost-effective for lower production volume runs. With MIM, the biggest cost is setup to create the mold, but after this initial investment, the cost can quickly be recovered when amortized over high-volume runs.
    • Material: A wide variety of materials can be used with MIM and the process allows a great degree of flexibility to customize material compositions to meet specific attributes required by an OEM customer. Selecting the right materials and feedstock composition are critical factors for success. Some of the compositions are stainless steels, low alloy steels, carbon steels, Ni-alloys, tool steels, and tungsten alloys. Unlike machining, there is less waste and scrap produced with a MIM process and fewer raw material inventories are needed, which can help reduce costs.
    • Properties: MIM is best suited for very small, high performing precision products and parts with tight tolerances and consistent dimensions over high-volume runs. Components can achieve 95 to 98 percent of wrought material density at a much lower cost.
    • Design Complexity: MIM is ideal for producing complex-shaped components with complicated design geometry, eliminating the need for multiple steps and assembly required with a machining process. In addition, MIM allows significant design freedom as parts can be designed and manufactured with minimal design restrictions. Nearly any design change can be made within a short development cycle and turnaround time. Design features such as thin wall sections, exterior and interior threads, holes, grooves, words, and numbers can all be achieved with MIM.

    Early Collaboration Is Key
    Today’s competitive medical device marketplace requires manufacturers to continually seek ways to reduce development cycles, production time, and costs in order to maximize value and return on investment. An experienced CMO partner can help OEMs select materials and optimize designs to ensure the success of any project. Collaboration early on in the development cycle is paramount for ensuring a component produced through metal injection molding meets the desired mechanical properties. A CMO partner with experienced MIM engineers on staff can help ensure MIM-produced parts are uniform and have consistent qualities without requiring assembly.

    Engineers with expertise in both MIM and machining processes can suggest design modifications and provide input to get the best performance out of a product no matter what technique is ultimately used. An experienced CMO partner can work with their OEM customers to factor in design considerations upfront that can save time and costs.

    Conclusion
    A MIM process is effective for production of small, intricate parts and products with complex geometries at high volumes, including handheld tools used for cutting and articulating during surgery. Devices produced through MIM have excellent strength and properties, offer great design flexibility, and can often be produced at a lower cost than traditional metal machining and die casting. A MIM process also reduces the need for secondary operations and raw materials, which add costs. For the right project, MIM can help CMOs and their OEM customers achieve a competitive market edge.


    Steve Santoro is EVP of medical device contract manufacturer MICRO, responsible for directing corporate technical and commercial teams. He previously held high-level operations, sales, engineering, and general management positions, and was recently appointed a charter board member of the School of Applied and Engineering Technology at the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
    Related Searches
    • Molding
    Related Knowledge Center
    • Molding
    Suggested For You
    P1 Technologies P1 Technologies
    NTK Cutting Tools USA NTK Cutting Tools USA
    Nissha Medical Technologies Nissha Medical Technologies
    JK Medirise-Disposable Medical Device Company JK Medirise-Disposable Medical Device Company
    American Swiss Products Co. Inc. American Swiss Products Co. Inc.
    ECA Medical Instruments ECA Medical Instruments
    DDL Inc. DDL Inc.
    Simbex Simbex
    Coastline International Inc. Coastline International Inc.
    High Tech Turning Co. Inc. High Tech Turning Co. Inc.
    Precision Coating Merges with N2 Biomedical Precision Coating Merges with N2 Biomedical
    Picarro Unveils EtO Gas Concentration Analyzer Picarro Unveils EtO Gas Concentration Analyzer
    Masimo Launches Single-Patient-Use rainbow SuperSensor in Europe Masimo Launches Single-Patient-Use rainbow SuperSensor in Europe
    Stryker Buys Gauss Surgical Stryker Buys Gauss Surgical
    Metal Injection Molding and Metal 3D Printing Examination Metal Injection Molding and Metal 3D Printing Examination

    Related Buyers Guide Companies

    • P1 Technologies

      P1 Technologies

      ...
      lydia payne, marketing communications manager 11.30.22

    • NTK Cutting Tools USA

      ...
      Melissa Singher, Senior Product Coordinator 11.18.22

    • Nissha Medical Technologies

      ...
      Amy Jeary, Market Development Manager 11.18.22


    • JK Medirise-Disposable Medical Device Company

      ...
      Ketan Munjani, Marketing Manager 11.17.22

    • American Swiss Products Co. Inc.

      ...
      Douglas Bell, Sales 11.17.22

    Loading, Please Wait..

    Trending
    • RJG Names Winners Of 2023 RJG Mold Smart Award
    • Diabetes Innovation: MIT Engineers Unveil Implantable Device With Oxygen Factory
    • A New Approach To Post-Market Surveillance
    • Danaher Names New Environmental And Applied Solutions Company Veralto
    • FDA Clears LiveMetric's Wearable Blood Pressure Monitoring Tech
    Breaking News
    • Heather Danks Named Chief Technology Officer at LEX Diagnostics
    • Vitalchat Awarded Patent for Patient Monitoring, Bandwidth Conservation Tech
    • South Korean Regulators Authorize Expanded NeuroStar TMS Indications
    • Ian T. Meredith Joins Avertix Medical’s Board
    • Hologic, Bayer Team Up for Contrast-Enhanced Mammography
    View Breaking News >
    CURRENT ISSUE

    September 2023

    • Superior Subtractive Solutions for Machining Medtech
    • Medical Device Industry Experts' Thought on Assembly & Automation
    • Power Trip: A Discussion of Custom Medical Electronics
    • The MDR Transition: An Opportunity for Design Change?
    • 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

    ABC’s Journal HerbalGram Celebrates 40th Anniversary
    Curcumin May Be As Effective as PPI for Indigestion
    Adding Human Milk Component to Formula Linked to Long-term Cognitive Benefits for Babies
    Coatings World

    Latest Breaking News From Coatings World

    WEG Among the Best Companies in Brazil in 2023
    EMPA Develops Flame Resistant Epoxy Resin
    Becker’s Global Mental Health Program Shows Positive Impact
    Medical Product Outsourcing

    Latest Breaking News From Medical Product Outsourcing

    Heather Danks Named Chief Technology Officer at LEX Diagnostics
    Vitalchat Awarded Patent for Patient Monitoring, Bandwidth Conservation Tech
    South Korean Regulators Authorize Expanded NeuroStar TMS Indications
    Contract Pharma

    Latest Breaking News From Contract Pharma

    Nexcella Completes 2nd NXC-201 Engineering Batch
    Almirall Upgrades Werum PAS-X MES
    Rentschler Names Industry Veterans to Leadership Posts
    Beauty Packaging

    Latest Breaking News From Beauty Packaging

    IT Award Winners Announced at MakeUp in NY
    GK Hair Expands Color Range to 125 Hues
    WPO and AIPIA Sign MoU to Collaborate on Smart Packaging
    Happi

    Latest Breaking News From Happi

    Augustinus Bader Introduces Body Cleanser
    Daniel C. Liebler Wins 2023 RIFM Board of Directors Excellence in Science Award
    NAD Refers SBLA Beauty To Federal Trade Commission
    Ink World

    Latest Breaking News From Ink World

    HYBRID Software’s PrintFusion for Koenig & Bauer
    Fujifilm Announced European Release of the Acuity Prime Hybrid
    Pacific Coatings Show Invites Industry to Top-Class Programs
    Label & Narrow Web

    Latest Breaking News From Label & Narrow Web

    Appvion introduces pre-siliconized Résiste SR
    Vibrant Labelexpo Europe 2023 concludes in Brussels
    Kenco Label & Tag adds sheeting system from Daco Solutions
    Nonwovens Industry

    Latest Breaking News From Nonwovens Industry

    Lenzing Earns EU Ecolabel at Indonesian Plant
    Albis Completes Work On Extra Wide Carding, Blending Line
    Ahlstrom Launches Nonwoven Laundry Care Product
    Orthopedic Design & Technology

    Latest Breaking News From Orthopedic Design & Technology

    Tyber Nets Several Regulatory Nods for K-Wires, Steinmann Pins
    Relievant Medsystems Releases Medability-Powered Intracept Simulator
    AOFAS, Arthritis Foundation Award Grants to Fuel Ankle Arthritis Research
    Printed Electronics Now

    Latest Breaking News From Printed Electronics Now

    ASSA ABLOY Acquires Forte in Peru
    Le Biscuit Boosts Omnichannel Operations with Zebra Technologies
    German Government, Bavaria Commit Support to ams OSRAM

    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