Micro machining is the use of CNC machines to produce small components that require extremely high precision. In airplane engineering, space technologies, and medical applications, there is zero room for error, and parts must fit together with absolute precision. In this article, we’ll go over the facets of micro machining and explain how it can benefit you, and who can benefit from it most.
What Is Micromachining?
Micromachining is the process of machining very small objects, using fine tools with diameters of less than 0.015 in. and extremely tight tolerances. In almost all machined products, it is an advantage if the parts fit together absolutely perfectly, but there are industries where there is no tolerance for error, which could lead to disaster.
In the aerospace industry for example, where it costs millions of dollars to launch each part into space, no one has the time, nor the budget, for second attempts – the tools and parts produced must be perfect, even when they are very small.
The manufacturing technology entails the subtractive production of objects or features with at least some of their dimensions in the micrometer range using mechanical micro tools with geometrically specified cutting edges.
What CNC Machines Are Used in Micromachining?
At Salco global micromachining is performed on our CNC Swiss Turning machines. Salco Global provides micromachining with extremely precise, state-of-the-art 3 to 5 axis CNC Swiss Turning capabilities. We specialize in sliding headstock CNC Swiss components with tight tolerances that meet or exceed client quality standards.
Salco’s Swiss turning styles enable us to pinch turns (rough and finish) at the same time, resulting in superior finishes, longer tool life, and reduced cycle times. The business has machined parts ranging in diameter from 0.008 to 0.015 inches in length, with tolerances as tight as 0.0001!
The Micromachining Process
- For a perfect result, thorough preparation is essential, which begins in the design phase.
- Once the plans are approved, a prototype is made, which is always necessary for quality assurance. One of the great advantages of CNC machining is that these prototypes can be produced quickly and easily modified if necessary.
- Once the prototype is proven and the final design is established, mass production can begin.
Who Uses Micromachining?
The key question is why this technology is needed. There are several technologies for prototyping and manufacturing high-precision parts, but CNC machining is the one that offers the greatest reliability and the highest precision. With little human intervention required, production can be done through the night in a process known as lights-out production, increasing efficiency and reducing overall production time.
The following industries rely on micro machining:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Communications
- Electronics
- Medical devices
- Other industries with state-of-the-art technological needs
Compliance with the standards ISO 9001 guarantees that Salco Global manufactures the hardware entrusted to us in the field of micromachining with the highest precision, regardless of the number of pieces.
If you need a micro machining service where even the smallest detail is manufactured with the utmost care, contact our Customer Success Team today. We’ll be happy to help you develop the right process, prototype, and then mass produce.
