Microparts

Microparts are miniature components whose critical dimensions lie in the micrometer to millimeter scale. They are designed for use in compact devices where small mass, limited space, or fine-scale functionality is required. Typical examples include micro-gears, micro-pins, micro-fluidic channels, and small connectors. Due to their scale, microparts often require tight tolerances, smooth surface finishes, and precise assembly.

Manufacturing methods span microfabrication and micromachining. Microfabrication, common in MEMS, uses photolithography, etching, thin-film deposition, and surface micromachining to create features on silicon and similar substrates. Micromachining covers micro milling, turning, drilling, and grinding on metals and hard materials. Other approaches include micro-EDM, laser micromachining, micro injection molding and hot embossing for polymers, electroforming, and new additive processes such as two-photon polymerization. Material choices include metals such as steel, aluminum, copper or titanium, polymers such as PEEK and PMMA, and ceramics.

Microparts appear in electronics packaging, medical devices (catheters, implants), sensors, optical components, microfluidic systems, and aerospace or automotive subsystems. Key challenges include achieving and verifying tight tolerances, handling and assembly at small scales, wear of miniature tools, thermal effects, surface finish and cleanliness, and metrology. Inspection techniques include high-resolution optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray imaging, and specialized metrology instruments.