Materials commonly used in medical manufacturing
Medical-grade materials such as stainless steel, titanium, cobalt-chrome alloys, aluminium, and Nitinol each bring distinct machining complexities. These challenges demand specialised lubrication approaches tailored to the physical and chemical properties of each substrate to ensure precision, safety, and efficiency in production.
Stainless steel is preferred for surgical instruments and structural components due to their corrosion resistance and mechanical strength.
Titanium and titanium alloys are widely used in implants for their excellent biocompatibility and lightweight properties.
Cobalt-chrome alloys are ideal for orthopaedic and dental implants thanks to their wear resistance and durability.
Aluminium is favoured for non-implantable medical devices due to its ease of machining and lightweight properties.
Nitinol (nickel-titanium) is known for its shape memory and flexibility, it is suitable for stents and guidewires.
Ceramics are employed in joint implants and other applications requiring high wear resistance and smooth articulation between components.
Laser cutting and EDM (electrical discharge machining) demand clean, residue-free fluids that do not interfere with precision or leave contaminants.
Broaching and deep hole drilling often still require neat oils due to the high mechanical loads involved.
Post-processing for 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing) often involves machining, requiring compatible fluids.
For grinding and polishing, fluids must be transparent and non-foaming to ensure visibility and surface quality.
Emerging trends and technologies In terms of fluid types, water-based fluids are increasingly favoured for their cooling efficiency, environmental profile, and operator safety.
Selecting solutions built on advanced lubrication technology can greatly enhance operational performance. These advanced formulations are designed to maximise cooling efficiency and lubrication, resulting in enhanced surface quality and prolonged tool durability. Such improvements lead to lower production costs and reduced downtime—key advantages in the demanding landscape of medical manufacturing.
Figure 1: Cobalt-chrome alloys in dental implants
Preferred metalworking techniques and fluid technologies
Medical manufacturing relies on a variety of metalwork- ing processes, each with specific lubrication needs.
CNC machining and milling requires fluids with high cooling capacity and lubricity to maintain tight tolerances, enhance surface finishes and as well increase the tool lifespan.
10 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.188 AUGUST 2025
Figure 2: CNC turning apparatus lubricated with metal cutting fluid
One such innovation is the introduction of biocompatible, water-based metalworking fluids that reduce exposure to harmful substances and improve workplace safety. These non-mineral oil bio sourced fluids are designed to minimise skin irritation and respiratory issues, making them more suitable for environments where operator health is paramount.
Moreover, their compatibility with medical-
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