Notes from the shop floor
Practical guidance on manufacturing processes, materials and working with Lab Ready on orthopedic parts.
Medical Device Manufacturing in Memphis, TN: What the Location Means
Lab Ready manufactures orthopedic and medical device parts from the Memphis, TN area. Here is what that central, Mid-South location means for lead time and nationwide shipping.
Read more →How to Specify a Thread Callout Before You Send an RFQ
A thread callout with only a nominal size leaves out class of fit, engagement length and internal-vs-external. Here is what a complete one states.
Read more →Wire, Sinker, or Small-Hole EDM: Match the Process to the Feature
Wire, sinker and small-hole EDM solve different feature-access problems. Use the drawing, material and inspection need to choose the route before quoting.
Read more →What Inspection Deliverables to Request on a Medical Device Parts RFQ
An RFQ that only says "inspection required" gets the same report on every feature. Here's how to decide which deliverable a critical feature actually needs.
Read more →Prototype to Production: What Changes on the Drawing and RFQ
A prototype and a production order for the same part aren't specified the same way. Here's what changes in tolerance, material and the RFQ when a machined design moves from one stage to the other.
Read more →What Changes When Manufacturing Trauma Fixation Hardware
Fixation plates, bone screws and external hardware each drive a different process, tolerance and finish decision. Here is what changes the RFQ for trauma components.
Read more →Interbody Component Manufacturing: Decisions Before an RFQ
Define the material, feature-routing, mating-interface and inspection inputs that shape an interbody component manufacturing quote before choosing a process.
Read more →DMLS vs CNC Machining: Choosing the Route for Orthopedic Parts
DMLS and CNC machining are not competing options for every part. Learn when geometry, quantity and material condition favor metal printing over machining for orthopedic components.
Read more →DMLS Post-Machining for Orthopedic Components: Plan the Final Features
Learn which DMLS orthopedic component features may need post-machining, what to define on the drawing, and how to quote the complete manufacturing route.
Read more →Have a part ready to quote?
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