How SLA rapid tooling is influencing medical device development

Abstract

Medical device product development includes the validation of the end-product before mass production can commence. This validation should be completed with a device that is manufactured from the final material and with the final manufacturing process. For plastic medical devices, Rapid Tooling can be used to manufacture parts for clinical validations at a cost-effective price. Further tooling cost reductions can be achieved if Stereolithography (SLA) is utilized to create injection moulding tools. This article determines the efficacy of SLA printed rapid tools to injection mould small plastic medical devices.