Norman Noble launches enhanced laser welding capabilities; expands micromachining in Florida

Norman Noble offers significant advancements in its laser welding capabilities, designed to meet the stringent demands of high-precision medical device manufacturing. Norman Noble’s laser welding processes utilize state-of-the-art fiber laser systems that provide exceptional power and positioning repeatability, resulting in precisely placed and repeatable welds.

The laser welding technology at Norman Noble allows for superior joint integrity, even in the most complex geometries, by employing optimized parameters for weld penetration, weld width, and weld positioning. These parameters are carefully developed and tested to satisfy customer tensile and fatigue requirements in the welding of thin-walled or miniature components, minimizing the potential for visual anomalies within the weld.

“Norman Noble’s laser welding systems are engineered to deliver repeatable, high-quality welds that meet the rigorous standards of the medical device and implant industry,” says Jeff Miller, laser process development manager at Norman Noble. “Our team has developed unique processes to weld a variety of materials in complex applications, including welding nitinol to nitinol on orthopedic implants and welding platinum markers into stent-like devices.”

Norman Noble’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in its ongoing investment in laser welding technology, including the development of custom fixturing solutions that ensure optimal alignment and repeatability during the welding process. These advancements have solidified Norman Noble’s reputation as a leading partner for OEMs requiring the highest-level quality components in the medical sector.

Expanded micromachining facility in Naples, Florida
Norman Noble is expanding its micromachining facility in Naples, Florida, to meet growing demand for its advanced manufacturing capabilities. The expansion supports the company’s commitment to supporting OEMs with state-of-the-art technologies for medical device and implant production, including specialized expertise in nitinol manufacturing.

The upgraded facility will add cutting-edge Milling and Swiss machines and automated deburring technologies. These additional capabilities ensure precision, efficiency, and quality, while streamlining manufacturing operations of complex orthopedic medical implants, such as nitinol staples, spine implants, orthopedic plates, screws, and anchors as well as vascular implants and components.

"This buildout strengthens our ability to deliver next-generation manufacturing solutions," says Dan Stefano, VP of Manufacturing and Technology at Norman Noble. “By doubling our prototype and production space in Naples, we enable faster turnaround times and increased capacity while leveraging our talented technical staff located at the facility.”

Expected to be completed by summer 2025, the expansion will double the manufacturing space, will improve operational efficiency, and will create new opportunities for local employment.