Carbon Fiber Rods & Tubes: Revolutionizing Medical Device Design
Carbon fiber strands are made from carbon atoms with linear bonds, which impart high strength along their length, also called longitudinal strength. The direction in which the strands are oriented on a piece, such as lengthwise, crosswise, diagonally, or a combination, determines the strength profile and characteristics of the piece. As a result, carbon fiber components can be used for a variety of applications.
Medical equipment and devices frequently incorporate carbon fiber for strength and durability without adding excess weight. This is especially important for tools, equipment, mobility devices, and stabilizing components that could cause fatigue with regular use. Learn more about how Goodwinds’ carbon fiber rods and tubes are used in a range of medical applications.
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The Benefits of Carbon Fiber for Medical Applications
Carbon fiber is strong and stiff yet lightweight, which makes it a good choice for medical devices and equipment. Some of the advantages it offers include:
Long-Term DurabilityCarbon fiber tubes and rods are inert, corrosion-resistant, and can handle temperatures up to about 100 °C. This results in long-lasting components that won’t break down over time.
Structural IntegrityBecause carbon fiber tubes and rods resist breaking down, they maintain their structural integrity and strength. As a result they provide reliable support for components like braces for limbs, wheelchairs, carts, and instruments without buckling or bending.
Less Wear and TearSurgical tools made with carbon fiber tubes have a long useful life without breaking, bending, or cracking.
LightweightThe lightweight nature of carbon fiber materials makes carts and large equipment easy to move. Surgical tools and wearable devices will also be lighter, which reduces fatigue.
Applications of Carbon Fiber in Medical Equipment
Individual carbon fibers are extremely thin, usually between 5 and 10 microns thick, and composed of linearly aligned carbon atoms. When forming tubes, rods, and other components, the fiber strands can be oriented so that they all run in the same direction (i.e., unidirectional) or in multiple directions, such as a diagonal twill or other pattern. Adjusting the orientation of the strands changes the relative strength profile of the finished piece. Carbon fiber rods and tubes are made in one of two ways, depending on the strength profile required for an application:
- Pultrusion. In pultrusion, unidirectional fibers are pulled through liquid resin, then through a die to form the tube or rod diameter and shape. All fibers are oriented in the same direction, which results in high strength along the length of the piece (i.e., longitudinal strength).
- Roll-Wrapping. Roll-wrapping involves pre-impregnating layers of unidirectional fiber or carbon twill fabric with resin, then wrapping them around a mandrel. Here, the fibers are oriented in multiple directions depending on how the fabric layers are cut, which can give the finished product a variety of predictable attributes, such as excellent hoop strength and resistance against crushing and twisting. Roll-wrapped rods and tubes can be cylindrical or tapered.
Carbon fiber rods and tubes from Goodwinds Composites are manufactured for increased durability, lightness, and strength in a range of medical devices and applications, such as:
External Fixators
External fixators are devices that can hold fractured bones in place to stabilize and align them as the bone heals. Lightweight carbon fiber doesn’t cause strain or discomfort, and resists bending, twisting, or warping. This material can also absorb force from bumps and daily activity without damage.
Surgical Instruments
Lightweight surgical and other tools can be used for long periods of time or regularly with less muscle fatigue or repetitive strain. This makes it easier to maintain precision and dexterity during procedures, for less risk of error and better patient outcomes. Common carbon fiber surgical tools include:
Forceps
Retractors
Scalpel Handles
Medical Imaging Equipment
Carbon fibers are radiolucent, meaning the material doesn’t interfere with CT or MRI images. For this reason, rods and tubes made from carbon fiber are not only strong and durable for imaging tables and equipment, but they also reduce the risk of inaccurate scans and data. Tables made with carbon fiber structural elements are also light enough for easy maneuverability.
Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids
Structural tubes made from carbon fiber make wheelchairs and walking aids that reliably and safely bear a patient’s weight while still being light enough to push, roll, or lift, even when strength and mobility are limited. This makes them easier and more comfortable to use and, therefore, more likely to be used regularly. Carbon fiber rods and tubes also maintain their form without bending, twisting, or breaking.
Orthopedic Supports and Braces
Carbon fiber orthopedic braces and devices often include small-diameter tubes or rods that give wearers increased support and protection without compromising mobility or exacerbating fatigue. These components are light and comfortable and can be made in a variety of sizes and configurations to adapt to many musculoskeletal presentations.
Surgical Robotics
Automated equipment and robotics are used increasingly in surgical and other medical settings. To reduce weight and make them easier to maneuver, arm and base components can be made from carbon fiber tubes. Lighter robotic arms also require smaller actuators and motors. And because carbon fiber rods and tubes can be manufactured in very small diameters and in cylindrical or tapered shapes, they can also be used in small and miniature surgical automation devices as well.
Carbon Fiber Solutions From Goodwinds Composites
Thanks to their strength and versatility, carbon fiber rods and tubes are an important part of innovative medical devices and equipment. At Goodwinds Composites, we provide standard and custom pultruded and roll-wrapped carbon fiber rods and tubes and assembly services that meet your requirements. Our experienced team is just as invested in getting it right as you are.
Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities and the advantages of choosing carbon fiber for your next medical project.