Meshes, filters and screens

Citation

(2001), "Meshes, filters and screens", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 73 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2001.12773ead.005

Meshes, filters and screens

Meshes, filters and screensKeywords: Tecan Components, Screens, Filters

It is reported that design engineers and OEMs can now exploit the increasingly accurate and flexible manufacturing processes, offered by Tecan Components, to produce bespoke high-resolution metal meshes, screens, filters and sieves – typically for electronics, space, aerospace, medical, automotive, optical and measurement applications (see Plate 4).

According to Tecan, cost-efficient custom designs can be produced to satisfy virtually any requirement using new high-accuracy photo-tooling methods which bring sharper aperture edges and higher resolution. Designs can be simple or complex and contain holes and matrices of varying sizes and shapes, dependent on the end-user's requirements. The new techniques are said to offer opportunities not available from traditional methods of production. Far larger surface areas can reportedly now be produced, while development and prototyping costs are reduced.

Plate 4 Tecan Components produce bespoke high-resolution metal meshes, screens, filters and sieves

Using highly accurate photo-chemical machining or photo-electroforming, mesh membranes can be produced as flat sheets, as flexible membranes, or in three-dimensional forms. The screens are said to be easy to clean, are extremely durable, and can have various surface textures – such as bright, semi-bright, matt, smooth or brushed. The production techniques are claimed to be so accurate that hole sizes can be as small as six microns across, and edge definition can be to within ± one micron. There is no need for subsequent machining or polishing after manufacture.

Tecan informs us that unlike traditional woven products, the single-sheet screens do not have cross-over areas. This is thought to bring 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 sizes.

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

Further details are available from Tecan Components Limited. Tel: +44 (0)1305 765432; Fax: +44 (0)1305 780194.