Aesculap AG has automated the deburring of its ‘Rapid Action’ surgical saw blades using ultrasonic technology from UltraTEC innovation GmbH, available in the UK through Vollmer. The contact-free process removes burrs and fibres from metal components using ultrasound, enabling greater consistency and unmanned production.

Part of the B Braun Group, Aesculap AG manufactures around 28,000 medical products, including delicate surgical instruments produced at micron scale. The company selected UltraTEC’s automated system to replace the manual deburring of its Rapid Action saw blades, which are manufactured from high-grade stainless steel for use in surgical cutting applications.

“We consistently pursue technological openness to remain competitive,” says Manuel Welte, process manager – engineering & processes at Aesculap AG. “The UltraTEC system proved to be the most suitable solution for our application thanks to its technical expertise and solution-oriented approach.”

The ultrasonic deburring process uses a high-frequency sonotrode oscillating 20,000 times per second inside a water tank. These vibrations remove burrs from the saw blades without damaging the cutting edges. The A25 S system from ultraTEC can process different saw blade types automatically within a 60-second cycle.

Previously, up to six employees manually deburred the blades using brushes, abrasive cleaners and scrapers. The new automated process integrates directly into Aesculap’s existing production chain using a pneumatic handling system and dedicated workpiece carriers capable of holding up to 180 parts.

Dieter Münz, managing director of UltraTEC innovation GmbH, says: “The result is a perfectly deburred saw blade that retains its sharp cutting edges while enabling reliable automated production.”

More information www.vollmer-group.com/en-uk