How Do Advanced Micromachining Technologies Affect the Performance of Nitinol Medical Devices?

Advanced micromachining processes like laser micromachining, electric discharge machining (EDM) and milling are key processes when fabricating Nitinol medical devices. Unfortunately, each machining process alters the thermomechanical properties of Nitinol - especially around the processing zone. To judge how much this affects the functionality of Nitinol devices, precise knowledge about the micromachining processes applied is crucial. Performance of a medical device from a manufacturer point of view is governed by its geometry. Attainable geometries are linked to the respective machining technology. Lastly the process itself might be limited concerning surface roughness, contour accuracy, and aspect ratio. Ecological aspects include the achievable material removal rate (MRR, volume per time) and necessary post processes. In this work, the authors report on recent developments in the field of micromachining Nitinol, especially in which way the respective technology affects the properties and the design of medical components. A comparative analysis of micromachining technologies is presented.