Sterimedix reports cost reductions thanks to EDM investment
Sterimedix, manufacturer of single-use medical devices for ophthalmic surgery and non-surgical aesthetic procedures, has acquired a Sodick AG40L from Sodi-Tech EDM. The machine, say Sterimedix, has enabled it to improve the quality of products and generate cost reductions compared with the outsourced operation used previously
Sterimedix manufactures a range of cannula, hand-pieces and devices for all types of ophthalmic surgery and aesthetic procedures. The business has been built up over 25 years, and employs in excess of 50 people who generate an annual turnover of around £6 million. Approximately 80% of output is exported throughout the world.
“We started manufacturing cannula 21 years ago, gradually increasing our manufacturing capability ever since,” explains Tom Parrott the company’s head of technical operations. “Five years ago we relocated our operation to larger premises and six months ago made the decision to rent additional premises nearby with the objective of creating an up to date manufacturing facility, with EDM machining at its core. We believed that by bringing EDM in-house, we would be able to take control of an important area of our production, introduce product improvements and generate cost reductions.
“Previously our subcontractors ported tubes singly. In order to secure a return on the EDM investment, it was necessary to improve throughput significantly. This was achieved by working closely with the engineering team at Sodi-Tech.”
Parrott says the Sodi-Tech team indicated the possibility of porting 40 tubes at a time. That indication is now a reality.
Although the acquisition was a significant capital investment for a company the size of Sterimedix, it offered the opportunity to improve quality and achieve cost reductions.
“In the time since installation, Sodi-Tech has continued its support throughout the various validations that we needed to undertake, and we are on target to achieve payback within 18 months,” confirms Parrott.