Laser knurling on medical needles
The focus of the application is to make a well-defined, deep incision around the entire perimeter of a very thin cylindrical tube (0,35 mm), without deformation or excessive weakening of the structure.
For the assigned task, laser engraving appears to be the only viable option, and in detail, we opted for an ultra-short pulse laser (picosecond). This type of machining was requested of us for medical needles, but can also be applied to cannulas, probes or other related objects.
We have the possibility of producing continuous, uniform strokes, often required in various medical applications.
In order to achieve continuity of machining on the cylindrical surface with uncompromising quality of detail and finish, marking systems with a number of specific characteristics are required:
- stability and structural strength of the machine,
- precision in axial movements.
- high quality of the vision system.
- software with the right operational solutions and advanced laser parameter management.
Depending on the volume and variability of production, one may use manual (CSP), cobot-equipped (BSP Pico + WH6) or robot-equipped (MODO ROBOT) laser marking machines.
Based on the size of the knurling notches and the needle diameter, the software calculates the number of notches along the circumference. Once the first notch has been made, a spindle rotates the needle by the angle calculated from the subdivision, to make the second notch and so on for all the others.
The evaluation of the results obtained is always documented by a report, which includes laboratory tests and trials carried out by our technicians, if necessary, to provide the customer with objective elements on which to base their choices.
