Photochemical Etching for Medical Precision Components

In a field where even the slightest deviation can have serious consequences, precision in medical device manufacturing is not just a requirement; it is a necessity.

This is especially true when it comes to producing EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) shields and electrodes for surgical devices, especially those used in heart surgery. These components are vital to ensuring the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of medical procedures and the best health outcomes for patients.

Boasting industry-leading experience in photochemical etching, Fotofab has built a reputation for producing precision components for medical equipment that diagnose, treat, and repair life-threatening issues quicker and more efficiently. With a commitment to quality and a proven track record of customer satisfaction, we’re the proven partner for reliable, high-quality components that improve the efficacy and safety of critical medical procedures.

In this article, we explore the importance of precision in medical components and assemblies, the key applications of EMI shields and electrodes in surgical devices, and what makes Fotofab the trusted team for thin metal precision parts for the medical industry.

The Importance of Precision in Medical Components

With the health and safety of patients dependent on the functionality and reliability of surgical instruments and components, precision is paramount.

For devices used in heart surgery, such as pacemakers, defibrillators, and other life-saving equipment, the role of EMI shields and electrodes is critical. In these applications, even the slightest deviation from design specifications can lead to serious consequences. 

EMI shields protect sensitive electronic components from electromagnetic interference, which could compromise the device’s performance and put the patient’s health at risk. Any component failure or malfunction could lead to catastrophic results in certain applications such as cardiac electronic implants.

Electrodes play an equally vital role in monitoring and stimulating cardiac activity during surgery. The accuracy and reliability of these components are paramount to ensuring patient safety and achieving successful surgical outcomes.

Unlike traditional methods such as laser cutting or stamping, which may cause stress or deformation to thin metals, photochemical etching maintains material integrity and precision because it does not use heat or mechanical force. This process is particularly suited for producing fine, intricate medical components that require exacting tolerances and smooth edges, which cannot be easily achieved through other methods. CNC machining, on the other hand, is typically used for thicker materials where different precision and strength requirements apply.

Applications of EMI Shields and Electrodes in Surgical Devices

Fotofab’s Expertise in Photochemical Etching

Leaders in photochemical etching, Fotofab has quickly developed a reputation for producing high-precision medical components, such as EMI shields and electrodes, used in a range of critical applications.

With a strong focus on speed, design flexibility, and quality, our proven precision etching process produces precision metal parts that in some cases cannot be done with metal stamping, laser cutting, CNC machining, and wire EDM. Unlike these methods, photochemical etching does not use force or heat which does not deform edges or change material integrity. For customers that need value added services in these areas, Fotofab’s partner network can provide this. 

We use state-of-the-art digital imaging machines to precisely map designs onto the metal sheets and eliminate variations so production remains consistent.

We specialize in the chemical etching of high-performance and exotic metals for medical, including:

• 300 Series Stainless Steel
• Nickel Alloys
• Titanium Alloys

Quality Assurance and Certifications

As a highly regulated industry with some of the highest quality standards, every medical device component must be manufactured with uncompromising precision and reliability.

Here at FotoFab, quality comes first. As a preferred supplier of custom-made precision metal parts to hundreds of medical industry leaders, we’re committed to delivering only the highest quality standards, shown through our various certifications.

We take pride in our commitment to excellence and ensuring the highest quality standards throughout our manufacturing processes. That’s why we only purchase material from reputable suppliers across the US, verify compliance upon arrival, confirm accuracy with precision testing, and audit completed orders prior to shipment.

Why Choose Fotofab for Medical Components

Working with engineers right across the medical sector, Fotofab delivers expertise, reliability, and quality to industry leaders by manufacturing high-quality, precision parts. Fast.

Leading medical clients choose to partner with us for a number of reasons, including:

Whether it’s developing a quick-turn prototype or managing a high-volume production run, our expertise ensures that each project is handled with the utmost precision and care.

A Shift from Treatment to Prevention

As medical technology continues to advance at a rapid rate, we’re seeing a shift in focus away from treatment to prevention, diagnosis and early intervention.

As this shift takes hold, precision-engineered components such as EMI shields and electrodes will become even more critical to delivering the quality of care modern patients deserve.

Through our advanced photochemical etching process, the team at Fotofab consistently delivers reliable and precise medical components, like EMI shields and electrodes, that help drive better health outcomes for patients.

Working at high speeds, we photochemically etch various components with complex designs and tight tolerances for medical applications that diagnose, treat, and repair life-threatening issues quickly and more efficiently.

Our capabilities for the medical industry go beyond precision-engineered components. We also specialize in a wide range of services and, through our trusted partners, can offer additional value-added solutions, including:

As a certified manufacturer and service provider, Fotofab is dedicated to exceeding customer requirements in the production and on-time delivery of high-quality medical devices. 

Our customers rely on us for precision, quality, and service, and that’s exactly what we deliver.

Get in touch to discuss your custom project or request a quote.