World-Class Uhmwpe for Orthopedic Implants
Orthoplastics is globally recognized as the leading supplier of medical-grade UHMWPE for orthopedic implants. For over 30 years, the facility has focused exclusively on implantable-grade plastics—developing the materials expertise, manufacturing processes, and quality systems that the world’s top orthopedic device manufacturers rely on.
The product range centers on UHMWPE, cross-linked UHMWPE, PEEK, PPSu, POM-C and Vitamin E UHMWPE, with applications spanning hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, ankles, and spine. Direct compression molding, compression molding, ram extrusion, screw extrusion and precision CNC machining all happen on-site, alongside a UKAS-accredited laboratory built to support development and regulatory work.
Orthoplastics essentially functions as a materials partner—working alongside OEM design teams to solve polymer challenges early and move programs through submission faster.
Located north of Manchester in Bacup, the facility operates with the rigor and traceability the medical device industry demands.
At-A-Glance
Expertise: UHMWPE, cross-linked UHMWPE, Vitamin E UHMWPE, PEEK, PPSu, POM-C, direct compression molding, compression molding, screw extrusion, ram extrusion, component machining, laboratory services
Known for: World leader in implantable-grade plastics; 30+ years of UHMWPE expertise; UKAS-accredited lab supporting materials characterization and regulatory submissions
Certifications: ISO 13485, ISO 14001, ISO 17025, ISO 9001; guided by 21 CFR 820
Environment: 173,000 sq ft
Location:
Grove Mill, Todmorden Road
Bacup, OL13 9EF
United Kingdom
| Core Capabilities | Our Approach | What it Means For You |
|---|---|---|
| Program Management | Program management support grounded in EPMO and PMBOK® best practices, with Lean and Six Sigma principles embedded throughout. Viant’s team aligns to program goals, proactively manages risk, and maintains clear communication at every stage. | Clear ownership and proactive risk management from kickoff through delivery that supports audit readiness. |
| Materials Expertise | Specializes exclusively in implantable-grade polymers: UHMWPE, cross-linked UHMWPE, Vitamin E UHMWPE, Radel® PPSU, and Hostaform® Acetal. Manufactures from Celanese GUR® 1020, 1050, and 1020-E polymer with environmentally controlled feed systems. | A supplier whose entire focus is medical-grade plastics, with the depth of knowledge that comes from decades of specialization. |
| Ram Extrusion & Compression Molding | Ram extrusion producing rod-shaped UHMWPE (12.7mm to 100mm diameter), plus 3 compression molding machines for bulk sheets (30–115mm thickness). Direct compression molding and insert molding enable highly polished surfaces and UHMWPE bonded to metal or ceramic substrates. | Custom profiles and near-net-shape molding reduce machining waste, lower per-part costs, and improve articulating surface performance. |
| Component Machining | CNC machining centers and lathes in an environmentally controlled white room. Dedicated new product development cell for prototyping and design refinement prior to production. | Complex geometries machined to spec with the precision and cleanliness implantable components require. |
| Crosslinking & Vitamin E | Validated crosslinking processes controlled to ±10kGy for uniform wear performance. Vitamin E blending per ASTM F2965 reduces long-term in-vivo oxidation while maintaining mechanical properties. | Implants that last longer and perform more consistently, with oxidation resistance built into the material. |
| Laboratory Services | UKAS ISO 17025 accredited lab supporting materials characterization, post-processing evaluation, cleaning validation, packaging, and terminal sterilization. FTIR, DSC, and CMM capabilities on-site. | Testing and characterization happen where the material is made, accelerating development cycles and simplifying regulatory documentation. |
| Design & Regulatory Support | Experienced quality, manufacturing, and development engineers guide programs from concept through production. Support includes 510(k) and CE submission preparation, process validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and FMEA studies. Full traceability with data stored for 30+ years. | A materials partner who helps navigate compliance and gets products to market faster, with audit-ready documentation at every stage. |