Hi Max
Most implantable braided nitinol devices are manufactured to remove thermal oxides created during the component forming operation. There are notable exceptions such as Abbott's Amplatzer line of occluders or Acandis's neurovascular devices. If you determine that your braided stent needs to have the thermal oxides removed to render it biocompatible, then sandblasting is certainly one option, but not the only one. Other common mechanisms for removing thermal oxide are chemical pickling/etching or tumbling. Any of these techniques can be employed as a precursor to a polishing operation.
The main challenge with both oxide removal and polishing of braided stents is the vast number of wire crossover points that serve as masked regions which can create non-uniform surfaces. Each oxide removal technique and braid pattern requires different strategies for uniformly removing the oxide and performing the subsequent polishing operation. This challenge is one of the very reasons why some designs like the ones mentioned above have chosen to forego the oxide removal step altogether.
Best of luck!
Scott Robertson
VP, Nitinol Technology
Resonetics
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Scott Robertson
VP - Nitinol Technology
Resonetics
San Francisco CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 03-08-2024 03:29
From: Max Zhang
Subject: Is Sandblasting Essential for Making Nitinol Stents?
I'm seeking advice on whether sandblasting is a necessary step in the manufacturing process of Nitinol braided stents. I understand that sandblasting is essential before polishing in the laser cutting of stents.
How do the world's leading companies handle this process?
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Max Zhang
R&D Manager
Shanghai
15068867877
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