Surface Microtexture Of Ni50.8Ti49.2 By Electrical Discharge Machining

Besides geometrical accuracy the application of machining technologies for medical devices strongly depends on surface integrity. Surfaces should have tailored micro texture to enhance cell adhesion. The machined implant surface should not contain any toxically substances as result of the machining process. Superelastic Ni_50.8Ti_49.2 alloys for cardiovascular stents and other implants are very difficult to machine using conventional machining processes especially for complex and filigree 3D-structures. Therefore, an alternative manufacturing technology, e.g., electrical discharge machining (EDM) is explored for its process capability. This paper analyzes the capabilities of the state-of-the-art EDM process regarding achievable surface topography and roughness.