Currently, there is a huge demand for small parts in different sectors. Because of the high demand for precision parts, micromachining has gained a lot of significance in the manufacturing sector.
We’ll now look into what micromachining is and its benefits. Also, we’ll focus on the practical applications of micromachining.
Table of Contents
About Micromachining
This is a process that makes it possible to manufacture tiny parts with tools that have a small diameter, and their holding tolerance is also good. With micromachining, it is possible to create parts that are small and intricate. Some of these parts are used for different applications, and they’re found in almost every gadget we come across daily. Some of the sectors that gain significantly from micromachining include medical devices and the consumer electronics market. To ensure that the micromachined parts are created effectively, there is the need to ensure motion systems that have high accuracy levels are used. The systems should also have a sub-micron resolution, and the spindles should operate at high speeds.
What are the Benefits of Micromachining?
Many benefits accrue from being able to make precise and small parts. The main advantage, in this case, comes about from laser micromachining and the use of a high-speed spindle. The reliability is impressive. The production process for smaller parts is also efficient, considering the tolerance levels are good.
Currently, there are new micromachining technologies, and it is possible to carry out single-process machining for parts that are small. It means turning, and milling takes place using the same machine. As a result, the lead time will be reduced. The products can also be manufactured with better efficiency. Therefore, the lead time will decrease. The post-processing will also be reduced.
The advancements that have taken place with regard to micromachining come in handy when manufacturing micromachining prototypes. Micromachining also comes in handy when manufacturing parts that will also feature micro pieces made of different materials, including metals and plastics. Since micromachining makes it possible to make some clean cuts and the dimensions will be precise, many sectors have expressed an interest in the practicality demonstrated by micromachining.
Some of the benefits that are usually overlooked include the fact that micromachining is cost-effective. With micromachining, cost-effectiveness applies even if you’re manufacturing one prototype.
Other benefits of micromachining include:
- Laser micromachining doesn’t involve any contact; as a result, the bearing won’t be loaded, and the tools won’t wear out
- Micromachining systems are flexible, and they can be configured in a custom manner
- Micromachining is cost-effective for both large and small volumes
- With micromachining, it is possible to machine different materials, including glass, metals, ceramics, polymers, and silicon wafers
Final Thoughts
Micromachining came about recently. However, traditional machining has been in use for many years. Micromachining came about with the sole aim of addressing the fact that most products would become smaller. Also, new products are becoming increasingly complex.
Traditional machining tools would not meet the precision and needs of the engineers who were in charge of developing new machines. So, the engineers and machinists ended up utilizing high-speed spindles and smaller tools, and they were able to attain higher precision levels.
