Discrete and Process Automation

How to guarantee automated screwdriving process reliability in a medical device assembly

17 February 2023

Custom screwdriving solutions for automated medical device assembly challenges are delivered by WEBER USA with industry-leading support and fast lead time. Solutions to automate the screwdriving process for medical assembly ensures parts remain clean and products are uncontaminated.

Medical applications for reliable automated screwdriving

For reliable medical device assembly, find a line of screwdriving and feeding systems with integration capabilities and the latest advancement of networkable, IP-capable control systems. The more compact the fasteners and parts are, the more susceptible to contaminating particles. Even microscopic metal particles as small as 100 microns can cause parts to malfunction.

Once workers unpack parts for assembly, the threat of contamination increases. WEBER counters this with a solution inspired by their long-standing know-how. In this example, the device feeds the fasteners to the spindle with a smooth, vibration-free ZEL step feeder. This process eliminates dirt dispersion, abrasion, and wear and tear on parts.

WEBER incorporates a dirt brake just in front of the spindle, designed in the form of a dirt turnout. Any surface-adhering particles and the transport air get extracted. Fasteners use gravity to overcome the last few inches of the screwdriving head.

This technology is available as an option for all of WEBER's screwdrivers.

Vacuum fixtured screwdriver SEV

The WEBER SEV Fixtured Screwdriver features a rugged and highly reliable design, which is the industry standard for fixed spindles. It is ideal for medical parts assembly because its proven design mitigates potential contamination when accessing locations that are normally unreachable by conventional means.

This solution also features a screwdriving spindle with vacuum technology ensuring reliable fastener insertion in locations that can be difficult to reach or have extremely limited access.

This Vacuum Fixtured Screwdriving system works in two ways to ensure a sterile field during medicalSource: WEBER USASource: WEBER USA assembly projects. Not only does it keep screws in place as they are driven but it also removes the particulates of screw coating that flakes off.

The counterblast feature also keeps the work field free from contamination. Use the feature to clear the vacuum system from anything it clears from the field. It also reduces downtime from maintenance, which is a win-win all around.

Process controller C30S

Common issues customers face is ensuring each fastener gets correctly seated. WEBER developed the process controller C30S to solve complex screwdriving applications. While driving screws, every joint in the assembly can be seen in 3D to improve process control and prevent defective parts from leaving the medical assembly operation.

3D monitoring enables workers to measure the torque (force required), angle (rotation) and fastener depth (actual position) through the fastening process. That’s just one way the WEBER C30S improves medical assembly projects.

The display allows selection from 31 configurable screwdriving strategies and programs. Choose from the model with torque or rotational angle sensor or the process controller C30 with current control.

To contact the author of this article, email GlobalSpecEditors@globalspec.com


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