Qualifying new materials for 3D printing technology in healthcare presents challenges at multiple levels. First, the material has to be qualified for its biocompatibility and ability to meet mechanical requirements for multiple applications. The regulatory and financial burden of such qualification and the associated time can be substantial. Although still a challenging task from a logistics and technology standpoint, it is faster, easier and less-expensive to qualify already proven materials like 17-4 PH stainless steel and validate those for new printing applications.

The second challenge is in regards to machine hardware engineering. Validating and optimizing parameters to run new materials can be challenging and costly unless there is a business case for a clinical application that requires large-scale manufacturing.

Third, securing a logistics ecosystem for reliable sourcing of such new materials at the quality required for healthcare applications can also be a challenging task.

3D Systems is well positioned to help medical device manufacturers overcome these challenges. Our expertise combined with a diverse, broad, library of biocompatible materials enable our healthcare teams to assist in more easily streamlining these processes for partners and customers.

Want to find out more?

Visit us at OMTEC 2018 booth 132 to discuss your next medical device project.

Want to learn more about our Medical Device Design & Manufacturing services? Visit our website at https://www.3dsystems.com/medical-device-manufacturing

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3D Systems Corporation published this content on 05 June 2018 and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 05 June 2018 21:52:07 UTC