CNC Machining in the Medical Industry: Standards You Must Follow
When it comes to CNC machining for the medical industry, there’s no room for error. The parts we make—like surgical instruments, implant components, or diagnostic device parts—directly impact patient safety and healthcare outcomes. So, strict standards aren’t just “nice to have”… they’re non - negotiable. Let’s break down the key ones.
1. Biocompatibility Requirements
Medical devices often contact the human body—blood, tissues, or skin. That means the materials used in CNC machining must be biocompatible. For example, titanium alloys (like Ti - 6Al - 4V) are common for implants because they don’t trigger harmful reactions. Even coatings or surface finishes matter—they must meet ISO 10993 standards to ensure they’re safe for bodily contact.
2. Tight Tolerances for Precision
Medical parts need extreme precision. A surgical tool with a 0.01mm deviation could fail during an operation. CNC machines must hold tolerances as tight as ±0.005mm for critical components. Standards like ISO 2768 for general tolerances don’t cut it here—medical projects follow stricter specs, often defined by regulatory bodies or individual device requirements.
3. Cleanliness and Contamination Control
Medical CNC shops must be cleanrooms or follow strict contamination protocols. Dust, debris, or leftover coolant can’t end up on a medical part. ISO 14644 - 1 sets cleanroom classification standards, and processes like washing, drying, and packaging must prevent contamination. This isn’t just about “clean parts”—it’s about keeping patients safe from infections or device failures.
4. Regulatory Compliance (FDA, ISO, etc.)
The medical industry is-heavily regulated. In the US, the FDA oversees device safety, and ISO 13485 (Medical Device Quality Management Systems) is a global standard. Your CNC provider must document processes—from material sourcing to inspection—to prove compliance. Without proper documentation, even a perfect part can’t reach the market.
5. Traceability for Accountability
Every medical part must be traceable—from raw material batch to final inspection. If a device fails, you need to track exactly how and when it was made. CNC shops use serial numbers, digital records, or barcoding to log details like machining dates, operator info, and quality checks. This traceability is key for recalls, audits, and continuous improvement.
Why This Matters for Your Medical Project
Cutting corners on these standards isn’t an option—it risks patient lives, legal action, and your brand reputation. At Marigold Rapid, we specialize in medical CNC machining that meets all these requirements. Our facilities follow strict protocols, and our team understands the unique demands of healthcare manufacturing.
Need medical - grade CNC parts? Visit www.marigold-rapid.com.cn to learn how we ensure compliance, precision, and safety for every project.