chemical etching, electroforming or laser cutting

Each precision manufacturing process has its pros and cons. For example, where one method can achieve >10µm tolerance capability, another can reach 2µm feature resolution, but this may be at the expense of speed and cost.

With more than 5 decades of innovation in photochemical etching (PCM) at our core, Tecan continues its pioneering mission. As part of the Materials Science Solutions Group of IDEX Corporation, we are proud to bring together the best features of both PCM and other micro precision technologies such as electroforming, technical ceramics and laser machining to deliver the finest precision parts to overcome the limitations imposed by using each technology on its own.

chemical etching (photochemical machining)

Uses photoresist and acid or alkaline etchants to remove metal selectively.

• Precision: ~0.05 mm
• Minimum Feature Size: ±0.01 mm (10 µm)
• Material Thickness: 0.01–1.5 mm
• Edge Quality: Smooth, burr-free
• Materials: Stainless steel, copper, nickel, brass, etc.

Best For: Flat, intricate 2D parts like meshes, filters, and EMI shields

electroforming

Builds metal parts by electrodepositing metal onto a mold (mandrel), which is later removed.

• Precision: ±200 nm
• Minimum Feature Size: 1.5 µm
• Material Thickness: From a 5 micron up to 1200 microns
• Edge Quality: Excellent, no burrs
• Materials: Nickel, Copper, Palladium Alloy, Rhodium, etc.

Best For: Development and production of large volume micro-scale parts, high-aspect-ratio features and hollow structures

laser cutting

Uses a high-powered laser beam vaporise material.

• Precision: ~0.1 mm (depends on material and thickness)
• Minimum Feature Size: ±0.025 mm (25 µm)
• Material Thickness: Up to 25 mm (varies by laser type and material)
• Edge Quality: Sharp, may require post-processing for burrs or heat-affected zones
• Materials: Metals, plastics, ceramics, wood, composites

Best For: Rapid prototyping, thick materials, complex 2D (and some 3D shapes)

Tecan can develop and produce bespoke solutions across a variety of metals using different micro precision technologies which not only deliver critical features that a single process cannot achieve in isolation, but also maximise cost effectiveness and technical capabilities.

As a single point source for complex components with highly precise features -even if they need forming and assembly – we can help you overcome even the most difficult design challenges.