Meet xFAB: Himed’s Newest Fully Automated Blasting System
Custom machinery that boosts iterative testing and high-volume consistency for implant surface treatments
The strength of a surface treatment lies in the systems and quality standards that support it. A good system should yield consistent, high-quality results while also being transparent, reliable, flexible, and fast. For decades, Himed has met these criteria through custom robotics—this week, we're pleased to announce the newest addition to our blasting fleet, xFAB.
Short for "fully automated blaster," xFAB was wholly designed and built by the Himed engineering team to support the surface treatment of dental and orthopedic implants using our MATRIX MCD® and MATRIX Dual® processes. This new system has the same capabilities as our more complex production cells but in a simplified and more accessible format. It was developed to increase efficiency, reduce setup time, and improve day-to-day usability for both operators and engineers.
Built for usability
We created xFAB with ease of use as a central priority. When the blasting process is less complex, it supports consistency between operators while improving overall productivity on the floor, which in turn shortens lead times and ensures good results.
xFAB's compact layout, intuitive interface, and streamlined mechanics make it simple to operate, even for team members new to automated systems. Training time is minimal, and daily operation requires fewer manual adjustments or troubleshooting steps.
A variety of threaded titanium dental implants with a uniform surface texture received from Himed’s plasma-sprayed MCD Apatitic Abrasive—a unique form of micro abrasive composed largely of hydroxyapatite.
Controlled, validated, and built in-house
Because xFAB was designed and built entirely by Himed, we have control over every detail. Our team engineered the system from the beginning with long-term reliability in mind, meaning we can service it ourselves and implement any improvements or updates quickly—avoiding the delays that can arise when third-party vendors are involved.
Before going live, xFAB underwent a full in-house validation process using a variety of implant designs. From threaded dental fixtures to porous orthopedic components, each test confirmed that xFAB would consistently deliver our MATRIX MCD® and MATRIX Dual® surface treatments to specification.
Designed to support what comes next
We invest in tools that support long-term growth. As implant designs become more specialized and production volumes shift, our focus is delivering the flexibility and responsiveness our customers rely on.
That flexibility extends beyond manufacturing—xFAB is also a powerful asset in iterative research and development. Our team can make precise parameter adjustments, quickly shift between projects, and keep detailed process protocols for repeatability and documentation. These abilities are especially valuable in early-stage validation, where turnaround speed, consistency, and traceability are vital to meeting regulatory expectations.
Whether for rapid process validation or large-lot surface treatments, xFAB allows our team to stay efficient, consistent, and aligned with the evolving needs of the dental and orthopedic industries.
How can we help?
If you're advancing a new medical device, preparing for a regulatory submission that includes calcium phosphate materials, or seeking high quality implant surface treatments, our team can support you with proven materials, rigorous quality systems, validated processes, and a steadfast commitment to partnership.