The benefits of PEEK Plastics in Implant Surgery
An established contract manufacturer of high grade materials, state-of-the-art machinery and innovative team-oriented services have recently upgraded their quality testing capabilities with a new Tinius Olsen 5ST, 5kN testing machine. The company deliver everything from spinal implants, pedicle screw systems, implant-grade PEEK spacers and other medical devices.
Of particular interest for their quality program are their implant-grade PEEK spacers. PEEK, short for polyether ether ketone, is a semicrystalline thermoplastic polymer, with excellent mechanical and chemical resistance properties that are retained to high temperatures.
This colorless organic polymer has various engineering applications, as well as being considered an advanced biomaterial for the use in medical implants. These are commonly known as PEEK implants and include minimally invasive spinal, lumbar and thoracic implants. It is also used with a high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), for creating a partial replacement skull in neurosurgical applications.
The primary reasons why PEEK implants are preferred by medical institutions include:
* Resistance to attack by organic and aqueous environments within the body
* Robust character that gives them the ability to undergo intense precision fabrication
* Non-toxic and safe for human applications
PEEK is also finding increased use in spinal fusion devices and reinforcing rods.
The polymers other applications within the world of manufacturing include aerospace, automotive and chemical process industries. Because of its robustness, PEEK is used to fabricate items used in demanding applications, including bearings, piston parts, pumps, High-performance liquid chromatography columns, compressor plate valves, and electrical cable insulation. It is one of the few plastics compatible with ultra-high vacuum applications.
The manufacturer’s investment in a superior quality control program, with sophisticated Tinius Olsen testing equipment, has added peace of mind to the company’s capabilities and reputation. And with an ever expanding list of applications for PEEK, the durability of this equipment will satisfy all their testing requirements for years to come.
