Micro-Tooling

Often the parts produced by MiniFAB are the final product, but in many cases we can provide parts with integrated micro-features that are used as tooling for subsequent processes. Features with dimensions as small as 1 µm in width can be produced directly into polymer tooling, but if these features are too fragile for the intended application then MiniFAB can transfer these micro-structures into a metal-tool which is far more robust. MiniFAB also has extensive experience in combining micro and macro-features into injection moulding tooling.

Polymer Tool

Micro-features fabricated directly (or through a replication method) into a polymer material can be used as a tool to transfer those features to other materials or tools. Polymer tools are used in low temperature replication processes and low volume manufacturing runs.

Metal Tool

Micro-features can be preserved within an electroformed metal tool to enable transfer of the micro-features in higher temperature replication processes. MiniFAB use these tools for low to medium volume production runs.

Injection Moulding Tool

A specific metal tool that is used for injection moulding of micro and macro features. These tools are suitable for high-volume manufacturing. MiniFAB has extensive experience in the design, production and use of tools with challenging combinations of micro and macro features.