Apium M220

The M220 is the world’s first 3D printer designed specifically for the manufacturing of medical products and implants made out of PEEK. Apium Tec company provides a cost-effective solutions to manufacture customized implants and not only.

The hot-air filter system analyses the component geometry and adapts the heating power so that an optimum energy input is always achieved. The air flow enclosing the component is filtered in a practically particle-free circuit.

Our extruder was developed regarding flexibility and durability. The four times higher feed force compared to the previous model enables a precise material flow. All components in contact with the printing material are made of medically compatible materials: PEEK, titanium, 316L steel and PTFE.

In cooperation with Evonik, materials and filaments were tested for their biocompatibility and the corresponding tests were successfully completed. This allows medical devices up to Class III to be manufactured from PEEK.

materials

Apium medical grade PEEK filament is based on VESTAKEEP® i4 G resin supplied by speciality chemicals producer Evonik. Specially formulated for making long term implantable devices, VESTAKEEP® i4 G exhibits high biocompatibility, biostability, and x-ray transparency making implantation and follow-up appointments easier on the patient and surgeon.

The resin meets ISO 10993-1 recommendations “for permanent tissue/bone contact” and is compliant with the ASTM F2026 “Standard Specification for Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Polymers for Surgical Implant Applications.”

The medical PEEK filament and M220 Series 3D Printers were produced in response to a growing customer demand for end-use, patient-specific medical devices.

The new production technology means a reduction in lead times and the cost of implant manufacturing. By medical grade 3D printing, production can now be performed on site in hospitals rather than outsourcing to a larger manufacturer.

SPECIFICATION

Build Size: 130 x 130 x 120 mm
Printer size: 850 x 685 x 675 m

Nozzle Diameter: 0.2 – 0.8 mm
Layer Thicknesses: 0.05 – 0.6 mm
Wall Thickness: > 250 µm

Printhead-Temperature: Up to 540°C
Hot Air Filter System: Up to 280°C

Print Bed Material: Stainless steel 316L
Noise Emission: < 70 dB(A)
Data Formats: STL, OBJ, G-Code