Laser Micromachining Services
The key element in the services which LML provides to clients is flexibility. There are five main types of interaction which LML has with customers, which are always tailored to the specific needs of the client projects.
Proof-of-concept trials
Simple, quick ‘look-see’ tests to determine whether a material can be machined or whether a type of structure is possible. These trials allow you to get a quick answer as to whether an idea can be taken further. These initial trials last no more than a day and are usually turned around within 1 week.
Applications development
More detailed evaluation of a concept which usually involves characterisation of a process, assessment of a manufacturing route and production of demonstration samples. This phase typically involves work lasting a few days, often repeated a number of times for specific developments.
Prototyping of devices
Following on from development trials, small prototype parts/samples are produced to an agreed drawing or layout. A typical run may involve few tens of pieces, produced over 2-3 days.
Batch production
Extension of the prototyping phase leads to the production of batches of samples/parts, typically few tens to few hundreds of pieces. This is usually done over an agreed time frame (days to weeks) to allow customers greatest flexibility in the evaluation of the parts.
Volume production
LML provides a dependable and cost-effective route for manufacturing high-volume runs of precision parts. LML has been producing large numbers of precision parts for many years and recently completed the final shipment of a 4M part order which was produced over a 6 month period. This service is usually provided with an agreed, auditable QC methodology.
Technical consultancy
Customers can benefit from our extensive experience is all areas of microfabrication and technical advice and support is provided from basic design concepts right through to manufacturing issues.
Initial consultation and appraisal of your needs is always free and we are pleased to offer our independent advice and objective guidance on the most suitable options for your projects – if we cannot help you directly then we are happy to refer you to more suitable suppliers.