What is Production?
Every Scala instrument goes through production at our facility in Alperton before it is dispatched. Production is where each instrument is inspected, corrected where needed, laser marked, passivated and packed, so it arrives with a clean, finished surface and added protection against corrosion.
Scala is the legal manufacturer of every instrument sold under the SCALA name, and that responsibility starts the moment stock comes through our door.
This page describes production for Scala's reusable surgical instruments.
Why your instrument looks different from our photos
Our product photos are taken before final production. The instrument you receive will be the same pattern shown, but with its finished surface, Scala's laser marking and its label.
How production works
1. Inspection on arrival
Every batch is inspected when it arrives. Instruments are checked for finish, function and conformity to specification. Anything that does not meet the standard is set aside for rework or returned to the supplier.
2. Rework
Where an instrument needs correcting, for example its alignment, joint action or finish, this is done before it moves any further through production.
3. Laser marking
Each instrument is laser marked for permanent identification. Laser marking stays legible through repeated cleaning and sterilisation cycles.
4. Passivation
Instruments are cleaned and passivated on Scala's in-house passivation line. Passivation restores the protective layer on the surface of stainless steel, giving the instrument its finished appearance and helping it resist corrosion and staining over its working life. Because laser marking affects the surface of the steel, passivation always follows marking.
5. Drying
Instruments are fully dried after passivation, ready for final inspection.
6. Final inspection
Every instrument is inspected a second time before release, to confirm the finish, marking and function are right after passivation.
7. Lubrication
Joints and moving parts are treated with instrument lubricant so the instrument works smoothly from first use.
8. Labelling and packing
Each instrument is labelled and individually bagged to protect it in transit and keep it identifiable on arrival.
9. Dispatch
Only instruments that have passed final inspection are released for dispatch.
Your own codes and labelling
If you need products marked with their own codes, Scala can add this as part of production. Because marking happens before passivation, your codes receive the same finish and protection as the rest of the instrument.
Please contact us with your requirement and we will confirm what is possible.
Before first use
Scala instruments are supplied non-sterile. They must be cleaned, inspected and sterilised in line with the instructions for use and your local decontamination procedures before first use.
Frequently asked questions
This depends on the instrument and the quantity ordered. If you need instruments by a particular date, please contact us before ordering and we will confirm an expected dispatch date.
Our photos are taken before final production. The instrument you receive is the same pattern, but it will have been laser marked and passivated, so its markings and surface finish will differ from the image.
No. All Scala reusable instruments are supplied non-sterile and must be cleaned and sterilised before first use.
Passivation is a chemical treatment that restores the protective layer on the surface of stainless steel. It helps the instrument resist corrosion and staining, particularly after processes such as laser marking that affect the surface of the steel.
No. Passivation gives the instrument a protected surface to start its working life, but how well that protection lasts depends on how the instrument is cleaned, processed and stored. Following the instructions for use, using suitable detergents and water quality, and drying instruments fully all help to keep them in good condition.
Every single item is inspected on arrival, and every item is inspected again before it is released for dispatch.
Every instrument is inspected twice before dispatch, but no process is perfect and occasionally something will get through that should not have. If anything about your order is not right, please contact us and we will put it right. You can also read our Warranty and Refund Policy.
Yes. Contact us with your requirement and we will confirm what can be marked and where.
Yes. Scala can attach a label showing your product code to make receiving and unpacking easier for your team. Contact us with your requirement before ordering.
Call us on +44 208 997 0077 or use our Send us a message page.