Aluminum is a remarkable material that has had a significant impact on nearly every major industry over the last century. This includes the medical industry and the numerous devices that are changing the face of healthcare as we know it. People all over the world are living longer, healthier lives as a result of aluminum. Today, we’ll look at what aluminum alloys are commonly used in the medical industry and why they provide so many benefits.
Medical care is a highly regulated industry with very little room for error. Lives are literally on the line. Any material that is deemed fit for medical devices must meet extremely high performance and reliability standards. Medical devices, tools, and equipment must have extremely high sanitation levels, which is something that is not always taken into account in other industries. This is an area where aluminum shines brightly.
If you work in the medical industry or make products for medical use, you must ensure that the aluminum you use is of the highest quality. That is why it is always advantageous to work with a reputable supplier who has a track record of success.
What are the benefits of aluminum?
Many of the advantages that make aluminum so desirable in modern industries such as architecture, aerospace, and technology are also advantageous in the medical field. Aluminum is extremely lightweight and has one of the best strength-to-weight ratios of any metal. This means that aluminum equipment can be thin, light, and flexible while remaining extremely strong and durable. In this regard, only a few other materials can compete with aluminum.
Another benefit of aluminum is its shareability. Aluminum devices can be easily fabricated into any shape desired, making them useful for medical devices that must be fashioned to exact specifications. This is especially true for therapeutic and prosthetic equipment and devices that are tailored to a patient’s specific needs. Aluminum’s exceptional design flexibility has aided in the advancement of modern medical devices.
Aluminum is also valued for its high corrosion resistance. This is especially important in the medical field, where sanitation and cleanliness are essential. Medical equipment is frequently exposed to bodily fluids, heavy-duty cleaners, and other corrosive liquids; aluminum’s resistance to corrosion is an ideal match. Aluminum ability to form a passivation layer, which protects the metal even if it is nicked or scratched.
Other advantages of aluminum for medical devices include its machinability, recyclability, and the fact that it does not require a large investment to machine and fabricate, making it a less expensive alternative to some other high-performance materials such as stainless steel.
Is aluminum safe for the human body?
Many medical devices are not directly inserted into the human body. Because of its lightweight and durability, aluminum is commonly used in stethoscopes. The concept of biocompatibility is critical for any metal that will be inserted inside the human body, including medical implants that may be used temporarily or permanently. While aluminum is not an approved implant material, it is frequently used in disposable and ancillary equipment for surgical and medical procedures.
Anodizing the surface of medical equipment is one way to ensure that it is biocompatible. This is a method for improving the surface protection of aluminum material and making it more resistant to corrosive environments. An anodized coating improves the natural corrosion resistance of aluminum. Additional sealing can be added to an anodized aluminum part if necessary.
The part is immersed in an acidic bath containing an electrical current during the anodizing process. The tank wall will function as a cathode, allowing the aluminum to naturally convert to an anode. The electricity causes oxygen ions to bond with the aluminum surface, enhancing the previously discussed natural process of passivation.
Where can I find aluminum alloys in medical devices?
Several important steps during the design process, such as manufacturing planning and determining critical tolerances, are just as important as deciding on the right material. This is not always easy with aluminum due to the enormous variety of alloys available. Before making your choice, you should carefully review all of the mechanical requirements for the material and match them with a well-suite.
Aluminum devices are frequently used in orthopedic, endoscopic, spinal, trauma, and surgical procedures. This is in addition to standard hospital equipment such as trays, bedpans, containers, and cases. Aluminum weighs less than stainless steel and is more durable and hygienic than most plastics.
6061 is one of the most common aluminum alloys. It is a precipitation-hardened aluminum alloy with major alloying elements magnesium and silicon. It has been in use since 1935 and has good mechanical and weldability properties. Because anodized 6061 is biocompatible, it may be found in medical equipment and devices. The same can be said for alloys 6063 and 3003.
