Bernard Li, Medtronic Neuromodulation, Minneapolis, MN
Surface coating and treatment on medical device components are critical to enhance the performance of medical devices. Surface coatings and treatments have been used in medical devices for different functions, such as insulation, low friction, wear resistance, antimicrobials, etc. All coatings and surface treatments need to undergo surface characterization in order to understand their properties. This study investigates the application of Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) and Tungsten Carbide-Carbon (WC-C) coatings for the Sychro-Med Infusion (SMII) drug pump, as well as Titanium Oxide (TiO_x) coatings for a piston pump application. Advanced surface analysis techniques, including microscopy, nanoindentation and scratch tests, were employed to evaluate coating properties, adhesion, and surface morphology. These analyses, combined with wear resistance testing, demonstrate the effectiveness of the coatings to mitigate surface degradation and to extend the functional lifespan of critical components under demanding operational conditions. The study confirms that the coatings not only improve wear resistance, but they also offer significant improvement for the durability and reliability of medical devices.