In this newsletter we will dive into the crucial and life-saving role bearings play in medical devices.  

Bearings play a crucial role in the functionality and performance of various medical devices. Precision medical devices are exposed to extreme environments due to miniaturization and corrosive chemicals. The Boca Bearing Company supplies corrosion resistant bearings made from stainless steels, ceramics, plastics and lubricants to handle highly caustic and demanding applications. Boca Bearings has been supplying bearings for medical devices since 1987.  

Types of Bearings Used in Medical Devices 

Ball Bearings: Commonly used for their ability to handle both radial and axial loads. They are often found in surgical instruments and robotic systems. 

Roller Bearings: These can support heavier loads and are used in applications where high load capacity is required. 

Radial Bearings: Are used in applications where low friction and reduced rolling resistance are needed, such as in some types of medical pumps. 

Applications in Medical Devices 

Surgical Instruments: Bearings are used in tools like robotic surgical systems, allowing for precise movements and control. 

Imaging Equipment: MRI and CT machines utilize bearings to ensure smooth operation of moving parts, such as the gantry and patient table. 

Dental Equipment: High-speed handpieces and other dental tools often incorporate bearings to facilitate smooth operation and reduce wear. Read Boca Bearings White Paper on: Dental Handpiece Bearings 

Infusion Pumps: Bearings help in the movement of the pump mechanisms, ensuring accurate delivery of medication. 

Prosthetics and Orthotics: Bearings can be used in joints and moving parts to enhance mobility and functionality. 

Gas and Oxygen Regulators: Bearings are essential components in gas and oxygen regulators for enhancing performance by providing support, reducing friction, distributing loads, ensuring durability, and dampening vibrations. 

Considerations for Bearings in Medical Devices 

Biocompatibility: Bearings must be made from materials that are safe for use in medical applications, especially those that encounter bodily fluids or tissues.  

Material:  

Ceramic materials, such as silicon nitride 

316SS   

Polycarbonate (PC) 

Polyethylene (PE) 

Polypropylene (PP) 

Borosilicate glass 

300 series stainless steel 

Nitrogen Rich Stainless Steel 

Silicon Nitride 

Sterilization: Bearings need to withstand sterilization processes (e.g., autoclaving or gamma) without degrading or losing functionality. 

Precision and Tolerance: Medical devices often require high precision, so bearings must be manufactured to tight tolerances. 

Durability and Reliability: Given the critical nature of medical applications, bearings must be durable and reliable to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the devices. 

Lubrication: Proper lubrication is essential to reduce wear and friction, and in some cases, bearings may need to be designed for dry operation to avoid contamination.  

Conclusion 

When selecting bearings for medical devices and applications, it is essential to consider several critical factors, including high-speed performance, low noise levels, extended service life, and resistance to harsh environments and aggressive chemicals or fluids. These requirements, combined with stringent regulatory standards, underscore the importance of choosing the right bearing to ensure optimal functionality and safety in medical applications.  

Boca Bearings has a dedicated team ready to work with any medical engineering team. Whether your team is engaged in research and development, preventative maintenance, or routine repairs, Boca Bearing offers the extensive inventory and medical bearing expertise you need to support your efforts effectively.  

We hope you found our exploration of bearings in medical devices informative and engaging. Stay tuned for our next newsletter, where we’ll share more insights and updates!

To speak to a Boca Bearings expert dial (561) 998-0004 or by email at info@bocabearings.com