The Department of Medical Physics at the University of the Free State (UFS) makes use of radiation apparatus when doing research on rodents. This is done with a medical linear accelerator (LINAC) machine. The Product Development Technology Station (PDTS) assisted the department to manufacture these jigs through Additive Manufacturing (AM). The original device was manufactured many years ago from acrylic with an in-house process.
The acrylic sample was reverse engineered and the design was adapted for the AM process. The PDTS then 3D printed the device from SLS nylon and other materials.
The design of the existing apparatus was improved and AM technology makes it possible to easily customise according to the client’s specific needs. The AM process also significantly reduces manufacturing time.
The rodent radiation device assists with more effective and efficient research. The availability of more jigs also reduces the testing period and improves the standard of radiology and cancer treatment.