Laser Marking Titanium Alloys for Medical Use

Medical titanium alloys require precise laser marking parameters to ensure that the markings are clear and traceable, while maintaining the biocompatibility of the material.By controlling power output in the 15-20W range, and by using a particular line spacing and scanning speed, and by adjusting strategy according to ambient temperature, it is possible to achieve a precision mark of 0.1 mm.When actually operating the machine, one must pay attention to the stability of the clamps and their ability to withstand sterilization. Properly adjusting the frequency and waveforms can effectively prevent problems such as oxidation and microcracking, improving the reliability and aesthetics of the markings on medical devices.

Why does titanium alloy used for medical purposes need to be specially marked with a laser?

Titanium alloys, the material of choice for implants, have to be clearly labeled so as to be traceable, but the labeling process must not interfere with the material's biocompatibility.In practice, we found that standard parameters can lead to an overly thick surface oxide layer, and that a special parameter set we tested repeatedly can be used to engrave 0.1 mm precision characters and also effectively control the heat-affected zone.

Material properties determine parameter settings.

The thermal conductivity of medical-grade titanium alloy TC4 is about 30 % lower than that of stainless steel, meaning that the peak power must be reduced accordingly.For example, you wouldn't cook a steak at the same temperature throughout, and we suggest that the power be controlled at between 15-20 W, with a pulse frequency of 30-50 kHz, so as to avoid "burning" the surface of the material.

The core parameters of medical laser marking.

After field testing by a major hospital, this set of golden parameters was found to be optimal: 0.02 mm between lines, 800 mm / s scan speed, and a 45-degree fill angle.It is especially important to pay attention to the temperature of the work environment. If the temperature of the work area exceeds 28 ° C, you should reduce the Q frequency by 5 %. This small detail can raise the contrast of the mark by 20 %.

Balancing marking precision and disinfection tolerance.

A lot of new tattooists don't realize the effect of high-temperature sterilization on the ink, and we have encountered cases of the marks becoming blurred after autoclaving.Afterward, it was discovered that the depth of the marking could be increased to 0.08 mm, and the problem could be solved by using the laser's pulse shaping function.It's like putting on protective clothing, making the markings clear and durable.

A common guide to avoid falling into a rut.

Those who are just starting to work on medical devices need to pay particular attention to the stability of the fixture, which is more important than they may imagine.Last week a customer reported that the depth of the marks was uneven, and we found that the vacuum table had loosened by 0.5 mm.He suggested that they check the accuracy of their machine every 50 items. This little habit can save 80 % of the trouble of having to redo work.

The following is an example of how a parameter may be adjusted.

When testing a certain heart stent manufacturer, the first set of parameters produced a tiny crack.By reducing the repetition frequency from 40 kHz to 35 kHz, and by using the laser's waveform modulation function, the cracks were eliminated and the color of the marks changed from gray-white to a much more easily recognized deep gray.This adjustment is like "giving the laser a pair of gloves." It is effective and gentle.