News
Johnson Matthey Increases Capacity for Fine- Hole Micromachining
Johnson Matthey announces the completion of a major expansion and
5x increase in volume capacity for fine-hole micromachining of medical
component parts. Using advanced micro-machining technology, these
component parts actually exceed precision micro demands of the
medical device industry.
San Diego, CA…Johnson Matthey (JM), a leading provider of
micromachined medical component parts made of platinum and other
precious metal alloys, has completed a major expansion to increase the
volume capacity for fine-hole micromachining. This most recent
expansion improves JM’s ability to machine intersecting or cross-holes
in various configurations. The complex array of fine holes is used for
advanced medical applications such as electrophysiology catheters with
irrigated tips. The fine holes facilitate uniform cooling during
procedures. Other unique uses are emerging as medical device
companies begin to take advantage of this advanced machining
technology.
Johnson Matthey machines holes as small as 0.003” diameters without
burrs or other imperfections, while producing an extremely high yield
which helps to reduce waste and provide the most value to OEM
customers. Using enhanced machining technology, Johnson Matthey
produces surface finishes down to 5 microns, and eliminates or
minimizes random tool marks, dings and dents, and there is no foreign
material visible at a 10-times magnification. Using the fine-hole
capabilities helps Johnson Matthey exceed the precision microcomponent
demands of the medical device industry by maintaining
dimensional tolerances from 0.005 in. to 0.0002 in., concentricity to
0.001 in., edge breaks and corner radius/fillets from 0.002 to 0.005 in.
and burr tolerances to below 0.0005 in.
Customer requirements for very precise, small parts are increasing in
demand and complexity. Johnson Matthey’s accumulated experience
with machining of platinum and related precious metals provides
customers with fast response and high volume supply at micron level
tolerances. The machining technology reduces cycle times while
providing enhanced quality and superior surface finishes.
According to General Manager, Brian Woodward, “Our continued
investment in technology and innovation is providing enhanced
capabilities that meet the supply chain expectations and high quality
standards of the medical device industry”.
Johnson Matthey will be exhibiting (Booth #2321) at the upcoming
Medical Device Manufacturing (MD&M) tradeshow in Anaheim, CA on
February 8-10, 2011.
Johnson Matthey provides Platinum Group Metals (PGM’s) and Nitinol
for use by medical device manufacturing facilities. Raw materials,
precious metal tube and wire manufacturing originate in the company’s
West Chester, Pennsylvania facility as well as its UK facility. Nitinol
tube, wire, sheet and machined parts are manufactured in the San
Jose, CA plant and micromachining operations take place in San Diego.
Johnson Matthey offers global distribution through multi-country sales
locations. More information can be attained by visiting the Johnson
Matthey website at http://www.jmmedical.com
