Micro Machining

While “small” is rarely associated with remarkableness, there is definitely something fascinating about “small” when it comes to the micro machining of precision components. An intricate finished part resembles a masterpiece crafted with tremendous skill.

Added Value

Existing know-how on handling and machining of micro parts
Continuous improvement and further development
Ability to make the impossible possible

Micro machining is a high-precision process that transforms a raw material into a small-scale finished product. The micro machining process was first developed in the 1990s with the goal of boosting machine performance through more precise geometry control. Advanced cutting tools were also invented at the same time to achieve a superior surface finish.

Unisteel continuously upgrades and improves its capabilities in the area of micro machining technology in order to stay one step ahead of the competition and tap new markets. As a reliable supplier to customers from the electronics and medical technology industries, Unisteel meets the most stringent technical requirements.

Micro Machining Teile_1920px — Micro parts from Unisteel in proportion to a paper-clip

Unisteel’s capabilities

Unisteel’s technical expertise and high-end machines enable it to manufacture CNC components with diameters of under 1 mm. Swiss-type lathes and CNC milling machines with rotary tables are the most commonly used equipment.

High-precision CNC systems are capable of producing miniature parts with challenging geometries and technical specifications. These double spindle machines have a wide range of tool attachments that make it possible to cover the entire machining process, from start to finish, with just one machine.

Since processing takes place along multiple axes, rotary transfer milling machines can manufacture components largely without any need for manual intervention, thus enabling products with complex geometries to be produced cost-effectively.

Application in the medical technology industry

Lead connectors used in medical devices
Unisteel helps its customers develop an economical design, meaning it works together with customers to define a geometry that can be produced at low cost. This covers everything from the choice of raw material to selecting suitable equipment and a cost-optimized production strategy – all that without any sacrifices in terms of quality, of course. Specially designed raw material bar loaders are used to manufacture lead connectors, for instance. Coated custom cutters and suitable coolants are used during machining, as well, not only to reduce heat buildup but also to ensure that component dimensions and surface roughness remain consistent. Other improvements to the machines succeed in eliminating nearly 80% of burrs during the machining process.

Material: SS316L
Diameter range: 1.16–3.00 mm
Wall thickness: 70 µm
Surface roughness: Ra 1.6
Concentricity: 40 µm
Straightness 38 µm
Finishing: Passivation, burr-free

Titanium parts for implants
Titanium is ideal for use in medical applications, especially implants. The components we produce for this kind of implant are rectangular in shape and feature a threaded hole and an intersecting through hole. Unisteel uses a milling machine to manufacture these complex titanium parts to ensure that all required product specifications are satisfied. Another machine also automatically corrects any dimensional deviations detected in a multi-stage process that eliminates all burrs. The product is then pickled in an acid bath to guarantee clean, burr-free parts.

Material: Titanium
Dimensions: 4.0 (L) x 3.0 (W) x 3.6 (H) mm
Flatness: 10 µm
Thread hole size and perpendicularity: M2/20 µm
Surface roughness: Ra 0.8
Finishing: Acid pickling, burr-free

Ionizer pins for hair styling appliances

Ionizer pins are low-power devices that use high voltage to generate ions. CNC lathes with high spindle speeds are used to manufacture ionizer pins with outer diameters of as little as 0.7 mm. An auto loader feature was designed specifically for this area of application that minimizes wire warpage and distortion. Another function was incorporated that reduces vibrations during the machining process.

Material: SS316L
Dimensions: Ø 0.7 x 6 mm
Tip diameter: 100 µm
Surface treatment: Passivation

Consumer products

Everyday consumer electronics contain micro components that are often too small for the eye to see. Those could include device buttons, contacts for charging wireless earbuds or components that are hidden away from view. Apart from high functional requirements and tight tolerances, a product’s appearance is another important aspect of its design.

Material: AL 6061-T6, SUS 316, SUS 303
Diameter: 150 µm
Length: 300 µm
Requested tolerances: Approx. 10 µm
Surface treatment: Aandblasting, mirror polishing, laser marking, etc.
Coating: Anodizing, PVD and more

Electronics Produkte_1920px — Unisteel products for the electronics industry

Unisteel manufactures these micro components using CNC lathes and milling machines and then applies the appropriate processes to meet the functional and optical requirements. Unisteel’s expertise in selecting the right post-machining processes ensures that the appearance of these micro parts is precisely in line with the customer’s specifications. Not only are these products fascinating, but highly beneficial to customers at the same time.