Bearings used in medical device applications have unique requirements because of the extraordinary conditions in which they must perform. Biocompatibility, corrosion resistance and sterilization are just a few of the challenges the bearing must accommodate. Standard bearings are rarely able to survive in medical devices.
Custom bearings designed specifically for the application offer a solution that can meet all of the needs of a medical device. A custom design can fit into a much smaller space than a standard bearing. The number of components needed in a medical device can be reduced through the use of a custom design. Custom bearings work well in low volume durable devices or provide essential cost savings for high production disposable products.
Example: A medical implant manufacturer created a new product which requires a special installation tool. A custom needle thrust bearing made from stainless steel was designed for the tool. Initially the tool needed to be reusable and autoclavable. As the product becomes widely accepted the tool will need to be manufactured as a disposable product and the bearing can be redesigned to reduce costs.
Mark Bos
National Bearings
