New manufacturing techniques, developed by Tecan Components, are being used to produce fine metal screens and meshes with higher, and more rigid, side walls than has previously been available using traditional lithography techniques. Typical applications will be found in electronics, space, aerospace, medical, optical and measurement markets.

Aspect ratio, the relationship between the width of an aperture and the thickness of the adjacent plate wall, has now been significantly increased through enhancements in photo-resist and lithographic manufacturing techniques. The result is increasingly wider application potential for designers and OEMs. For example, a part can be produced with selective mesh areas across the sheet, with higher profile ribs for mechanical strength and rigidity. Alternatively, robust slatted designs could be produced for optical applications such as light columnation and measurement.

Easy cleaning and long operational life are inherent properties resulting from the manufacturing techniques. The parts are produced from nickel which can be subsequently plated in house, typically with gold.

Unlike traditional woven products, the single-sheet screens do not have cross-over areas. This brings a range of benefits, including the elimination of contamination due to trapped debris, no de-lamination at the edges, consistent cross-sectional thickness and consistently accurate aperture shapes and sizes.

Cost-effective solutions are offered, compared to traditional sources, especially for prototypes, small and medium-batch requirements. The company prides itself on an extensive proven capability and is keen to solve individual problems - ensuring optimum operational performance. All standard CAD formats are accepted.

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