Medical Implants: Better Surface Finish For Better Patient Outcomes
Large spinal fusion devices are conventionally printed on smaller format machines using Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) or machined out of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) bar stock. When manufactured additively, these larger spine implants are typically printed on small format machines with a small build plate and only 1-2 lasers. They are also typically printed with their anterior face upwards in Z. This orientation in combination with the multi-step process creates a worst-case scenario. The price increases because most of the cost is driven from the production process itself. Although the cost is high, benefits that Additive Manufacturing (AM) large spinal implants are realized through the lattice design and surface roughness, providing osseointegration which leads to better patient outcomes.
Another benefit to AM spinal fusion devices comes from the material. AM allows for printing in titanium with a greater fracture toughness and higher ultimate tensile strength. When produced using PEEK, these types of implants lack ideal osseointegrative features. This coupled with an unstable material supply chain creates challenges when manufacturing large spinal fusion devices using PEEK. For these reasons, producing these implants additively is often preferred.
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“As an early adopter of AddUp machines, I really appreciate capabilities and proactive team spirit, to deliverer parts in a serial mode.”
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“We chose AddUp as our machinery partner for our recent project due to their High-Quality Products and Innovative Technology. AddUp’s commitment to research and development leads to cutting-edge solutions, like the Modulo 400 system, which offers versatility and high-quality results. This aligns perfectly with our vision at the Application Center for Additive Manufacturing at Research Institutes of Sweden AB, where we aim to lead in applied research and collaborate on new materials and solutions for the market.”
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“AM is in a state of exponential growth with the biggest challenges in adoption being qualification and certification. NSL is focused on partnering with companies who are passionate about driving innovation for metal 3D printing.
Over my past three years working with AddUp they have demonstrated a commitment to industrializing additive technology. The evolution of the FormUp 350 has made significant advancements in its full-field, 4-laser system and its monitoring suite which helps to accelerate the qualification process. Advancements like this prove AddUp to be a major player in the growing AM industry.”
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From the industrial roots of our founding partner companies, Michelin and Fives, to technology built for the future, AddUp machines provide innovative solutions to manufacturers’ challenges. Pressed to find cheaper, smarter, and faster ways to meet market demands, manufacturers are looking for a reliable partner to guide them along their additive manufacturing journey. They want a guide who, beyond machines, provides a new vision of manufacturing for the future. AddUp is that guide.
In applying our industrial experience in building complex parts with our reliable and repeatable additive manufacturing machines, we help customers manufacture in a safer, cleaner, and more efficient way through digital manufacturing.
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