Before

Cobalt chrome medical component before mirror polishing and surface refinement.

After

Cobalt chrome medical component after mirror polishing, showing a highly reflective surface finish.

Objective

A medical device manufacturer in the Boston, MA region sought to develop a finishing process capable of producing a high-quality mirror finish on a cobalt chrome medical component. The objective was to achieve a consistent surface finish on a critical bearing surface while simplifying the existing multi-step polishing process and supporting production efficiency.

Part DescriptionMedical Component
IndustryMedical/Pharmaceutical
Fabrication MethodCNC Machined
MaterialCobalt Chrome
Process TypeSurface Preparation, Polish, Superpolish/Ultrapolish
Equipment TypeCentrifugal Barrel Finisher / Harperizer, Centrifugal Disc Finisher

Solution

Bel Air developed a polishing process for a cobalt chrome medical component using centrifugal barrel finishing / harperizing technologies. The process was designed to produce a high-quality mirror finish while maintaining the critical geometry and surface integrity of the part.

Using a controlled finishing process, the components were processed through specialized media and compounds selected to refine the surface and improve overall surface quality. The finishing operation helped reduce surface irregularities and create a highly polished finish on the critical bearing surface.

The process provided a repeatable approach to achieving a consistent mirror finish while simplifying the existing polishing operation. The resulting surface quality supported the cosmetic and functional requirements of the application while improving overall process consistency.

If you are unsure what equipment and media you require to achieve your desired surface finish, send us your part, and we will evaluate it and provide you with a detailed metrology report.