The new IX-4000 ChromAblate from J P Sercel Associates is an excimer laser workstation designed for medical device micromachining applications. The IX-4000 precision micromachines materials with micron-scale features and sub-micron tolerances. Typical applications include stents, catheters, micro-fluidics, sensors, nozzles, micro-screens, particle traps, MEMS, MOEMS, micro-dicing, biosensors (lab-on-a-chip) and micro-vias. Materials processed include polymers and plastics, ceramics, glass and metals.
Whether machining micron-scale features or configured for large area processing of micron-scale feature arrays, the IX-4000 is engineered for 24/7 industrial production with a high degree of flexibility and configurability. An optional 193nm beam delivery package is also available, for use with materials that do not couple well with the longer UV wavelength (such as Pebax), and other more optically transparent materials.
This high-performance system is available with production-grade robotics, part pre-aligners and machine vision, all combined in a user-friendly Class I laser system.
The IX-4000 also offers a large workspace, so it can be configured with stages able to handle parts up to 300mm, or alternatively used in reel-to-reel applications. Additionally, the IX-4000 provides a uniform beam profile, with a variety of imaging and non-imaging homogenisers available for the most demanding large-area applications.