Metal, Plastic and Ceramic Precision Machining
AFP’s global production platform features the highly-precise machining of metal, plastic, and ceramic components for analytical systems ¬ where tight tolerances and smooth surface finishes are essential for fluid control and separation performance. The unconventional way we apply our machining knowledge and capabilities enables breakthroughs in OEM cost, productivity, and time to market.
Our precision metal machining involves the highly accurate fabrication of complex metal components used in chromatography and liquid handling systems. This process is critical in ensuring components meet strict standards for performance, durability, and biocompatibility.
Our precision machining transforms plastic materials into complex components used in analytical and diagnostic instrument applications. This process supports tight tolerances, high repeatability, and material integrity.
AFP’s precision machining capabilities include the following services:
Micromachining: AFP’s CNC micro-milling and laser micro-machining produce extremely small and intricate parts. This process is ideal for machining components such as miniature fluid channels and orifices found in chromatography, genomic, and diagnostic instruments.
Swiss-style CNC Machining: this 13-axis technology is ideal for machining highly precise, compact parts requiring high-volume production. It is highly flexible and can produce any shape, including intricate, unround, and odd shapes. Because AFP can utilize multiple axes at the same time, these shapes can be made efficiently and cost effectively without compromising quality.
Multi-Spindle CNC Machining: multi-spindle machines enable production of complex geometries with tight tolerances (±0.0001 inch). This high-speed system has extremely efficient cycle times that permit cost reduction while maintaining product quality.
Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM): our process enables production of conductive metals without direct contact. It is well suited for small features, slots, and precise internal features in hard materials.
Turning and Milling: AFP’s turning technology enables high-precision production of analytical and diagnostic device components. We can produce components with tolerances of +/- .0002/.005 millimeters. It is ideal for machining parts with complex geometries and tight tolerances such as pockets, contours, and surfaces.
Internal Diameter (ID) and Outer Diameter (OD) Grinding: AFP’s grinding technologies manufacture cylindrical components requiring tight tolerances, superior surface finishes, and precise geometries. ID grinding achieves tight tolerances inside bores or tubular parts. OD grinding finishes the external surfaces of cylindrical parts. AFP’s ID and OD grinding includes CNC and centerless grinding, plus laser marking and welding and basin welding.
AFP’s precision machining facilities are ISO 13485- and ISO 9001-certified for regulatory compliance. Our best-practice quality system incorporates IQ/OQ/PQ validation methodology and our data collection and tracking system records every part’s quality history to ensure it meets or exceeds OEM specifications.
AFP’s manufacturing system can process the following materials:
- Titanium 6AV-4V
- Stainless steel: 300 Series, 400 Series (custom 455, 465
- Aluminum: 60, 61. T6. 20, 24. T6. Oh. 20, 24, 60, 61, 20, 24, 70, 75
- Plastics: PEEK, Alton S U L L T E M, Alton Delerine polycarbonate