PECM of implant components made from shape memory alloys

Due to increasing miniaturization and functionalization in production, the possibilities of industrial use of shape memory alloys (SMA) in medicine are growing. SMA are capable of switching between different crystal structures and regaining a programmed shape by applying a certain temperature, pressure or magnetic field. Mechanical processing has uncontrolled impacts on the programmed properties of the SMA. Pulsed ECM is an alternative production technology that is capable in processing the material below its activation temperature. It is also contact-free, which prevents the crystal structure of the SMA from an unregulated force effects. The publication systematically approaches to ensure the functionality and highlighting challenges in the processing by pulsed electrochemical manufacturing technology. The project examines the processing of a complex nitinol actuator on the example of a human implant, which concludes on special requirements on temperature and biocompatibility.