A Print Head Built for Medicine: The vipro-HEAD Medical Grade Series

In medical additive manufacturing, much attention is paid to biocompatible materials and regulatory approvals. Yet another factor plays an equally critical role in the success of these innovations: the printhead. As the component that comes into direct contact with the material, a printhead must act with precision and be sterilizable—essential qualities for producing safe, patient-specific solutions. Precision ensures the accurate deposition of complex geometries, while being made of a medical-grade material means meeting the rigorous demands of clinical applications.

As personalized care becomes increasingly central to modern healthcare, the demand for medical-grade additive manufacturing components is rising. To meet this need, ViscoTec Pumpen- u. Dosiertechnik GmbH (“ViscoTec”) has developed a medical-grade series of 3D print toolheads based on its proven vipro-HEAD models. Designed specifically for the medical technology market, these toolheads feature product-contact surfaces made from stainless steel or FDA-certified elastomers and plastics. An autoclavable version is also available, capable of sterilization at up to 121°C, preventing any cross-contamination. Attachable to almost any 3D printer, these print heads ensure seamless integration into clinical workflows.

vipro-HEAD for 2-component-materials (left) and vipro-HEAD high-temperature version up to 110 °C (right)

What Does the vipro-HEAD Medical Series Offer?

ViscoTec has long specialized in fluid technology systems, covering everything from material extraction and preparation to the precise dosing of medium to high viscosity media. This expertise translates directly to additive manufacturing, where accurate material deposition is vital. Building on the established vipro-HEAD series, the company now offers medical-grade versions of the following printheads: