Medical

Reliable, permanent marking for strict traceability and regulatory compliance

Ensure UDI-compliant, sterile, and permanent codes – even on complex or sensitive device surfaces

Challenges in Medical Industry

In the medical device sector, part marking is strictly regulated. Permanent, high-resolution codes are required to meet UDI (Unique Device Identification) mandates from authorities like the EU MDR or FDA. Materials vary from titanium implants to polycarbonate housings and stainless surgical tools, each with different surface characteristics, heat sensitivity, and sterilization requirements.

Manufacturers face challenges in marking small, often curved or textured surfaces without damaging functionality or altering tolerances. Codes must remain readable after autoclaving, chemical exposure, and abrasion—making durability critical.

Cleanroom environments and validation procedures demand zero contamination, minimal particulates, and low thermal impact. As many devices are high-value and low-volume, first-pass yield and precise control are essential.

Substrates

Print Samples

UV Laser Markers

UV lasers operate at a short wavelength, enabling cold marking without thermal damage. This makes them ideal for marking delicate medical plastics, such as polycarbonate, PEEK, or nylon, without discoloration, deformation, or compromising material integrity. UV lasers produce extremely fine, high-contrast codes—even on white or transparent surfaces—while meeting cleanroom standards and avoiding residue. They’re widely used for syringes, tubes, housings, and single-use devices.

Green Laser Markers

Green lasers are optimal for precision marking of plastics and ceramics. They offer better absorption in transparent and reflective materials compared to infrared lasers, enabling readable and stable markings on items like infusion components, connectors, and dental tools. The low heat input ensures surface integrity, helping meet validation and hygiene requirements. Green lasers are a strong choice when contrast and micro-marking are both critical.

Fiber Laser Markers

Fiber lasers are a robust solution for marking metals like stainless steel, titanium, or cobalt-chrome. They produce high-resolution DataMatrix codes and alphanumeric markings with deep or annealed contrast, suitable for surgical instruments, orthopedic implants, and reusable tools. Codes remain legible after sterilization and cleaning cycles. With no consumables and long diode life, fiber lasers deliver high throughput and minimal downtime.

Vanadate Laser Markers

Vanadate lasers deliver short pulses and small spot sizes for fine, high-contrast marks on a wide range of materials, from plastics to metals. They’re especially effective for producing micro-sized DataMatrix codes required in space-constrained applications like catheters, lenses, or guidewires. The lower heat-affected zone reduces material stress, making them suitable for components with tight tolerance specs. Vanadate lasers offer a balanced solution between speed, quality, and versatility.

Search

Medical

Challenges in Medical Industry

Substrates

Print Samples

UV Laser Markers

Green Laser Markers

Fiber Laser Markers

Vanadate Laser Markers

Related Hitachi Solutions

Air Technology

Drives & Automation

Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

Stay ahead with our newsletter!