Injection-molded components for MRI local coils

Injection-molded components:
for MRI local coils

Initial situation:

Local coils are an essential part of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They are designed for different body regions and applications and receive the MR signals emitted by the object being examined.

For the production of various plastic components for these local coils, Siemens Healthineers was looking for a reliable, long-term manufacturing partner. Among other things, the components mechanically protect the sensitive electronics inside the coils.

The requirement was a tool concept designed for a production period of more than 20 years that ensures consistently high component quality throughout this time. At the same time, reliable series production of around 1,000 components per year had to be guaranteed.

Challenges:

Use in the immediate vicinity of an MRI system places special demands on component and material. Imaging must not be adversely affected, and safe use on the patient must be guaranteed at the same time.

In addition, high dimensional accuracy, a high-quality surface and reproducible quality across all six printing variants are required.

Solution:

Polycarbonate (PC) was selected as a suitable material. It meets the mechanical requirements and is suitable for use in the MRI environment.

Tool and injection molding process were specifically matched to component and material to ensure high dimensional accuracy and surface quality. The components are produced in white and then printed in six different variants.

Result:

The result is a reliable series solution for Siemens Healthineers that combines mechanical protection of the sensitive electronics with the special requirements of an MRI application.

Particular proof of the quality and durability of the tool concept: for more than 20 years, the components for Siemens Healthineers have been produced from the same injection mold, reliably ensuring the required component quality and dimensional accuracy over its entire service life.

Are you planning plastic components for a medical device? Learn more about our injection molding for medical technology – from material selection to series production. Technical details on our machinery and materials can be found on our plastic injection molding page.