Micrometer Precise Welds
Microfluidic components tolerate no errors. These devices require a strong hermetic seal with
no particulates or additives allowed to contaminate the intricate network of channels.
Precise welding geometries are a precondition for this innovative technology – this accuracy is essential for achieving reliable results in microfluidics. Laser plastic welding is ideal here for many reasons.
Two-Meter-Long Welded Seam
Using LPKF welding technology, a two-meter long welded seam was produced on a cartridge rarely the size of a cell phone. During the welding process, the LQ-Vario MF monitors the whole procedure and records the parameters for seamless tracking & tracing. No other sector demands such a high level of processing safety as the medical technology industry. Laser plastic welding has successfully proved its suitability for medical products in the highest risk category: Risk Class III (e.g. intracardiac catheters).
Laser System and Know-How
Laser plastic welding creates precisely welded seams in any pattern without harming the surrounding material. The integrity of the fine channel cross-sections is not affected. The laser also has built-in flexibility: if the weld contours must be modified, this can be simply done by loading the new layout data. Changing from one product to the next requires minimal time and effort. LPKF has a great deal of in-depth experience in the laser welding of medical products. A specialized application center in Erlangen supports interested parties with answers to construction questions, and process design assistance.
Built-In Microfluidics
At the heart of the LPKF LQ-Vario MF lies a precise fiber laser for creating ultra-fine welding seams lines in the micrometer range – perfect for microfluidics applications. Other advantages include:
- Full size PCB format Table size 25” x 22” (640 x 560 mm)
- Standardized feed adapters reduce typical changeover time to less than ten minutes
- Unit can be loaded and unloaded during a welding cycle – reducing cycle time.
|
