Linde Partners with 3D Medlab to Optimize 3D Printing of Complex Structures for Medical Devices

3D Medlab collaborates with Linde

Linde and 3D Medlab partnered on research into ways that atmospheric conditions in the additive manufacturing process can be optimized to produce complex titanium alloy latticed structures for medical devices. The joint project is the first of its kind and represents a milestone in the field of orthopedic device development.

Atmospheric gases play a fundamental role in the printing process. Impurities that remain in the chamber, even once purged, can have a detrimental effect on the part being manufactured. Additionally, fumes created during the production process can remain on the part, requiring post-production cleaning.

The atmospheric trials involve a new helium/argon gas mixture created especially by Linde for the project to make the process smoother and cleaner, along with use of Linde’s ADDvance O2 precision, an oxygen measuring and analysis technology to ensure the optimal mix of gases within the print chamber. Along with the new gas mixture, ADDvance O2 precision will give 3D Medlab precise, granular control over the oxygen concentration and humidity levels in the print chamber.

Linde began its association with 3D Medlab originally through the supply of its ADDvance powder cabinet, designed to retain the quality of valuable, sensitive metal powders used in the additive manufacturing process by protecting them from exposure to ambient air and humidity.

“Our experience with Linde shows that they are as committed to the same high standards of precision and excellence in additive manufacturing that we are,” said Gaël Volpi, CEO, 3D Medlab. “Full regulatory compliance is a fundamental cornerstone in our engineering and design process and our customers trust us to ensure all proper measures and controls are in place.”

“We are proud to be collaborating with 3D Medlab on this important and forward-looking project,” said Pierre Forêt, Senior Expert Manufacturing, Linde. “As a customer at the forefront of medical device manufacturing, anything less than optimal product outcomes is critically important to avoid, so it is testament to our gases expertise and know-how that we have been selected to partner in this endeavor.”

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