Precision Micro Invests In Laser Direct Imaging

Precision Micro, a West Midlands-based specialist photochemical machining (PCM) company, has installed laser direct imaging (LDI) in its quest for continuous process improvement. PCM is the process of manufacturing sheet-metal components using a photo resist and etchants to remove the unwanted material.

The process can accurately produce highly complex parts with very fine detail and can provide an economical alternative to stamping, punching, laser or waterjet cutting or wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) for thin gauge precision parts. 'Next-generation' LDI is used in the manufacture of minute advanced electronics components. LDI is said to have already provided benefits to customers, allowing them to develop designs that were previously prohibitive on either technical or economic grounds.

Anthony Marrett, managing director, said: 'LDI has enabled us to deliver rapid prototyping even quicker and tool modifications can be carried out in a matter of minutes. 'Dimensional and positional accuracy across large formats are at new levels with a fourfold improvement in pitch accuracy across an 800mm x 600mm sheet. 'We have also noted that the improved capability has led to substantial yield improvements,' he added.

The LDI system is reported to have created an increase in demand for tight tolerance components as a result of the machine's ability to image ultra-fine, 15-micron features. Its charge-coupled-device (CCD) cameras and image recognition system also provide exceptionally precise front-to-back feature alignment. Precision Micro is believed to be the first specialist etching operation to utilise the LDI process.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is Class I Division 2?

Image
A Class I Division 2 is a location: (1) In which volatile flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are handled, processed, or used, but in which the liquids, vapors, or gases will normally be confined within closed containers or closed systems from which they can escape only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems or in case of abnormal operation of equipment, or (2) In which ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are normally prevented by positive mechanical ventilation, and which might become hazardous through failure or abnormal operation of the ventilating equipment. Class I Division 2 Classification Class I Division 2 refers to the ANSI/ISA 12.12.01 standard. This standard was previously UL1604 until UL recommended the newer ANSI/ISA standard be used and that all hazardous location products be certified under this standa...
Read more

FUSE SIZING CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGHER EFFICIENCY MOTORS

Image
When selecting the proper fuse for short circuit protection in motor starting applications, it is important to not only ensure that the fuse will not nuisance open during motor start up times, but also that the fuse will coordinate as required with overload relays. When sizing fuses between 125% and 150% of the motor nameplate current, several advantages, including ease of coordination with an overload device, a smaller disconnect, and increased short circuit protection from a lower fuse rating, can be achieved. However, if sizing at this level prevents the motor from starting, it may then be necessary to increase the fuse ampere rating and it then becomes important to know the NEC sizing limitations. As of June 1, 2016, the US Department of Energy has mandated that newly manufactured electric motors will need to meet NEMA Premium® efficiency standards. As motor efficiencies increase, motor locked rotor currents can also be expected to increase. In addition to this, with across-the-lin...
Read more

7/8 16UN Connectors that Provide 600 Volts and 15 Amps

TURCK announces new A-Size 3 and 4-pin 7/8 16UN powerfast™ connectors that provide up to 600 Volts and 15 Amps of power. These IP67 rated connectors provide a modular wiring system designed to handle high current applications for machine power distribution, while providing resistance to vibration commonly associated with conveyors, motors and material handling applications. The cordsets are available with a tray rated, exposed run PVC flexlife ® cable, with or without STOOW rating, and 14 AWG wires that allow you to replace hard wiring with a robust, quick disconnect system that saves the time and money spent installing a conduit system. The A-Size powerfast line offers male and female, straight connectors, standard and custom lengths, and pigtails or extensions. To make the system complete, fully encapsulated mating receptacles, with 1/2”-14 NPT mounting threads are available.
Read more