Due to the recent revisions to ASTM standards F136 and F138, Banner Medical, Carol Stream Ill., installed a multi-axis, computer controlled Ultrasonic Inspection System designed and built by Matec Inspection Companies Inc., Northborough, Mass., for precision ground bars.
ASTM F136 and ASTM F138 are commonly specified standards in the design of titanium and stainless steel surgical implants; and recent revisions to each standard call for ultrasonic testing at final diameter for all centerless ground, or peeled and polished bars, which are greater than or equal to 0.375 inches in diameter.
“We are experiencing greater demand for ultrasonic testing of medical grade raw materials and the recent changes to ASTM standards F136 and F138 will increase demand even further in the very near term,” said Bob Khin, VP of quality assurance at Banner Medical.
“We recognize the impact these revisions will have on our customers. Ultrasonic testing at final diameter has the potential to add significant delays and cost to the supply chain. Our new ultrasonic inspection unit allows us to ensure the precision of centerless grinding and testing under one roof. We are providing our customers with a cost effective, time saving solution to the problems which could arise as manufacturers begin to comply with these changes. We will maintain the inventory, production capability, and testing equipment in a medical focused factory,” said Dan Stoettner, executive VP and CEO.
To fully comply with industry testing standards, Banner Medical hired additional personnel to operate the equipment and implement the proper management systems.
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