Medical Bearings
The Medical Technology sector develops advanced equipment for diagnostics, treatment, and patient care, including imaging systems (CT/MRI), surgical instruments, and prosthetics. Bearings in these applications demand exceptional precision, smooth and quiet operation, reliability, and often miniaturization to meet stringent medical standards. These critical components ensure the accurate movement and positioning vital for patient safety and effective treatment.
Medical Bearings Applications
Bearing Solutions in Medical Devices
Surgical Robot Joints Bearings: Enabling precise manipulation for minimally invasive procedures.
Medical Imaging System Bearings: Ensuring smooth and accurate scanning and patient positioning.
Infusion Pump Mechanisms Bearings: Providing reliable, consistent fluid delivery control.
Laboratory Analyzer Bearings: Supporting accurate sample handling and movement.
Prosthetic Joint Bearings: Allowing natural and durable motion for patients.
Precision and Miniature Bearings for Compact Devices
Space is extremely limited in devices such as micro surgical instruments, diagnostic probes and portable pumps.
Small bearings, including tiny ball bearings and miniature ball bearings, are essential. For example, micro motors in electric surgical forceps and electric blades require micro bearings to ensure high speed and smooth rotation.
In addition, some micro devices and minimally invasive surgeries also require the support of small bearings. For example, micro pumps use high-precision miniature bearings to transport drugs or blood to ensure the smoothness of patients’ vital signs during surgery.
Stainless Steel Bearings, Plastic Bearings, and Ceramic Bearings
Stainless steel bearings can withstand high operating temperatures, and some models can work stably in steam sterilizers (121°C~134°C). Importantly, stainless steel materials have excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance, especially suitable for disinfection and sterilization environments common in medical devices. Additionally, some stainless steel bearings, such as those made from 316 stainless steel, are non-magnetic or very weakly magnetic, making them suitable for equipment like MRI machines and avoiding interference in magnetic field-sensitive environments.
In addition, plastic bearings are inherently corrosion-resistant and non-magnetic. They are suitable for guides, low-load components, or areas that require single-use or specific sterilization methods (except high-temperature autoclave sterilization). Components such as plastic rollers or simple pivots in guide systems are examples of plastic materials that provide functional advantages based on specific medical needs.
Ceramic bearings are also a solution for applications sensitive to magnetic fields, like MRI machines, or those requiring electrical insulation. Zirconium oxide (ZrO2) or other rare ceramic compounds typically form the bearings used in medical environments.
Precision bearings in medical mobility systems
Modern prostheses need to be able to replicate the complex movements of human joints. Our precision ball bearings can help patients achieve knee or elbow movement with prosthetic limbs.
Medical exoskeletons are a type of support outside the patient’s body that helps paralyzed patients walk. They use sensors and control systems to provide auxiliary forces and use electric motors or hydraulic systems to provide power.
Ball bearings are used in rotating joints (such as shoulders and elbows).
Needle bearings are used in areas that are subject to greater pressure, such as knees or ankles.
Some heavy exoskeletons or joints that require shock absorption use plain bearings because they slide on lubricated surfaces and are shock-resistant.
In addition, spherical bearings allow multi-directional movement and are often used to mimic human spherical joints.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the key material options for medical bearings, and what are their advantages?
Common materials include stainless steel bearings (for corrosion resistance and sterilization, like in steam sterilizers), ceramic bearings (for non-magnetic properties, electrical insulation, and use in MRI environments), and plastic bearings (for corrosion resistance, non-magnetic needs, low loads, or specific sterilization methods).
Can medical bearings withstand sterilization processes?
Yes, the ability to withstand sterilization is crucial. Stainless steel bearings, particularly certain grades like 316, are designed to endure high-temperature steam sterilization (autoclaving) and chemical disinfection common in medical settings. Other materials like certain plastics are suitable for alternative sterilization methods or single-use applications.
How is lubrication typically handled for bearings in medical equipment?
Lubrication varies. Some bearings use specialized medical-grade greases or oils. In sensitive applications, non-lubricated ceramic bearings or self-lubricating plastic bearings or plain bearings might be chosen. Sealed bearings help retain lubricant and prevent external contamination.
Are bearings used in medical devices required to be biocompatible?
Yes, for applications involving contact with bodily fluids or implantation within the body, bearings must utilize materials and potentially lubricants that are certified as biocompatible to ensure patient safety and prevent adverse reactions.
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