Direct Part Marking in the Medical Industry
In recent years there has been a tendency to strengthen label-related regulations on a yearly basis. Behind this, are tighter restrictions on how expiration dates, place of origin, and ingredients should be written in addition to the standardization of distribution codes.
Due to an increasing need for serialization through unique marking on packaged items directly before shipping, there has been an increase in marking with lasers.
This guide will introduce and explain examples of laser markers for the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Reduced lead time, manufacturing costs, and environmental impact
Software Setup
-Reduce manufacturing costs by creating custom programs that adjust for design and part changes.
- Laser marking creates permanent, high-contrast marks without the use of ink.
- Marking can be performed during the manufacturing process, which eliminates the need for extra machinery and additional processing time.
Complex Part Marking
3-Axis Marking
With KEYENCE's Z-MAP Creator software, 3D CAD data (STL format) can be imported directly into the Marking Builder 2 software. The data can then be used as a foundation for threedimensional marking. Characters and logos can easily be marked on even the most complex shapes with just the touch of a button. Because of its ease-of-use and high functionality, Z-MAP Creator has become an essential tool in surgical device manufacturing.
Z-MAP Creator
With KEYENCE's Z-MAP Creator software, 3D CAD data (STL format) can be imported directly into the Marking Builder 2 software. The data can then be used as a foundation for threedimensional marking. Characters and logos can easily be marked on even the most complex shapes with just the touch of a button. Because of its ease-of-use and high functionality, Z-MAP Creator has become an essential tool in surgical device manufacturing.
DEDICATED SOFTWARE
With the dedicated Z-MAP Creator software, 3D CAD data can be imported directly into the Marking Builder 2 software. KEYENCE laser markers can mark on the surface of any shape, unlike conventional laser markers. Surgical devices are often molded into complex, ergonomic shapes which can only be marked by compensating for these three-dimensional contours.
Direct Marking on Steel Medical Instruments
High-Speed, Precise Marking
Using laser marking to identify surgical equipment allows for permanent marking of 2D codes for traceability. In addition to being highly visible, laser marking does not wear off and cannot be erased by chemicals unlike pad printing.
[RELATED APPLICATION] Laser marking part/lot numbers on medical tube connectors
Laser marking can also be implemented for printing on polycarbonate tube connectors used in the medical industry. This identifi cation is typically done by applying labels, which are expensive, take time to produce, and have the risk of being removed. Laser marking eliminates the need for labels and the extra costs associated with labeling medical connectors.
Expiration Date & Serial Numbers on Transfusion Bags
Permanent, sharp markings
Laser marking intravenous bags provides a permanent, easy to read mark for dates and serial numbers. Ink printing easily wears off and heat stamping is not clearly legible.
Replacing these types of marks with a laser solves both of these issues and eliminates costs associated with maintenance and consumables.
[RELATED APPLICATION] Laser processing on the surface of catheters
Laser marking can also be used for catheters and hypodermic needles. Cut locations and dwelling positions can be marked in the fl uoride coating. Concerns over sanitation and product contamination with ink are also less when using laser marking since no extra chemicals are used in the process.
