Frictional Torque Testing for Orthopaedic Implants
Frictional torque testing is the process of measuring the rotational resistance between articulating surfaces of an orthopaedic implant under simulated conditions. It provides insights into implant stability, wear performance, and mechanical behavior to help manufacturers meet regulatory and performance requirements.
Wear and frictional torque testing for orthopaedic implants
The FDA often requests frictional torque data collected during wear testing for orthopaedic implant submissions. For products such as dual-mobility hips, manufacturers need access to high-quality testing that aligns with evolving regulatory expectations. Lucideon is at the forefront of orthopaedic wear testing, offering anatomical wear simulation that not only evaluates wear rates but also precisely records frictional torque throughout testing, data that many conventional simulators cannot capture. Lucideon records and calculates frictional torque data in line with ASTM F3446-20.
Why frictional torque matters
Frictional torque directly impacts implant performance, affecting:
- Joint stability and fixation - Excessive frictional forces can contribute to implant loosening over time
- Wear patterns - Understanding torque dynamics helps manufacturers optimize material selection and design
- Patient safety and comfort - Predicting real-world performance minimizes the risk of mechanical failure
While traditional orbital wear simulators make up the bulk of industry testing, they lack the capability to measure frictional torque in real time. Lucideon's anatomical wear test simulators provide a comprehensive time-sensitive dataset, ensuring manufacturers are prepared for evolving regulatory requirements without additional or repeat testing.
Future-proofing FDA submissions
Lucideon recognizes that regulatory pathways are unpredictable. That's why we proactively record frictional torque data during implant wear testing, even if it’s not immediately required. This means that when the FDA requests additional data, Lucideon can provide it, eliminating the need for costly retesting.
Our service includes:
- Frictional torque measurement during standard Mode 1 (Pristine) wear testing
- Comprehensive frictional torque calculations and analysis
- Regulatory-compliant reporting ready for submission
By integrating frictional torque testing into your development strategy, you ensure a smoother regulatory process, avoid unnecessary delays, and gain a deeper understanding of your implant's real-world performance.
Partner with Lucideon for advanced wear testing
Lucideon's expertise in orthopaedic device testing gives manufacturers the data they need to navigate regulatory approvals confidently. Whether you require standard, pristine, or adverse wear testing coupled with advanced frictional torque analysis, we provide reliable, regulatory-ready solutions tailored to your needs.
Contact our team today to learn how our frictional torque testing can strengthen your submission and accelerate your path to market.
White Papers
In this white paper we look at why the testing of implants is so important. Traditional test methods and their limitations are detailed and adverse event testing is discussed
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Case Studies
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