Questions with Matthias Dreher

1. What are some of the circumstances presenting challenges for today’s medical technology producers?

We see and get feedback from customers that the whole industry is struggling with raw material, the so-called schlagware (forged blanks). The issue which affects the whole market is the delivery times, which often exceed more than a year with unexpected delays. Also, nearly all companies are struggling to have the right personnel in place to do part finishing, especially the medical instruments where finishing is the hand grinding of branches before assembly.

Additionally, cost pressure from the near and far East is increasingly affecting established medical instrument providers.

2. What technologies are currently available that can help manufacturers navigate these challenges?

To navigate these challenges SW has developed a very specific process to avoid difficulties with raw material and issues with personnel.

The concept is to produce the parts, such as case needle holders out of full metal blanks, but not in the flying or standing clamping position. SW recommends production by laying it down and using two operations. The part will be machined completely so no additional finish grinding is required. The parts can be finished by vibratory grinding and the finishing process steps can follow.

By using double or even four-spindle machining centers, small lot sizes can be finished much faster and the next lot can be started. All production processes can be managed by complete and integrated automation solutions connected to the machine. The different lots or orders can be managed autonomously by the system.

3. What advantages can be gained by incorporating automation in the medical manufacturing process?

As described above, using automation concepts not only gives you lights-out production capabilities but also additional benefits. In combination with a highly productive machining center, using more spindles at the same time enables faster production and delivery of parts to your customers.

Other benefits from using automation include saving time, manpower, and avoiding influences coming from the workers themselves, which can often lead to scrapped parts. Also, the full process can be validated, so there won’t be variation in the process steps in between.

4. What can a customer expect from a partnership with SW as their manufacturing solutions provider?

The customer can expect a partner able to provide a solution and a complete system out of the box. Together with the customer, SW develops a suitable concept that withstands challenges, putting them steps ahead of the competition and preparing them for the future.

For more information:
SW North America Inc.
https://sw-machines.com