USP laser micro-machining is used in multiple industries, including aerospace, electronics, eyewear, jewellery and medical, and its applications are many and varied. An especially important application in the medical industry is biomedical implant surface treatment for the modification, adaptation or enhancement of cellular interaction and improvement of bone mating. Laser matter interaction and negligible thermal effects mean that it is possible to create unique surface structures and preserve material properties.
However, a limiting factor of conventional 5-axis USP laser micromachining technology in advanced biomedical studies has been the difficulty in processing 3D parts. LASEA has addressed this issue through its development of a 7-axis USP laser micromachining technology that combines the five (X, Y, Z, A, C) mechanical axes of a 5-axis CNC system and two (X, Y) optical axes controlled by a 2D scanner, said to optimise USP laser path generation. This means that complex 3D parts can be machined and engraved or textured using simultaneous motions, and both stitching error effect and cycle times are reduced.
Rainford Precision, based near St Helens, is a supplier of precision tooling to the precision engineering industry, forming strong relationships with both suppliers and clients alike.
