Automation & Packaging In-House Automation Team Part handling and packaging sometimes seem like a second thought, but in many cases, it’s almost as important to the process as making the part. Molding a small part is one thing. Molding it and packaging it so it’s oriented in a manner that’s useful to the customer can be a challenge all on it’s own. In-house custom automation and packaging can come in many forms. This can be reel-to-reel packaging, light subassemblies, lead frame die-forming and singulation, in-line inspection or a wide variety of other custom secondary processes. These added services complete the total micro-molding service and sometimes can be the difference between project success and failure. Quality Assurance In-House Quality Assurance Quality assurance is imperative to any micro-molding operation. The ability to prove that parts are made to spec time and time again is where true capabilities are tested. This assurance comes in various ways. Quality begins at the start of each project. Design for manufacturability reviews are performed to ensure the project is off on the right foot. Considerations for quality, the robustness of the process and the ability to inspect and measure happen as early in the process as possible. From there control plans addressing critical features, FMEA results and other quality requirements are developed. High tech and low tech measurements are used depending on what’s appropriate. Measurement plans using precision gage pins, high-resolution in-line vision systems may be employed where necessary. Verification of tool dimensions as well as finished part dimensions often requires high magnification microscopic measurements. Product handling is also a necessary consideration. Surface contamination can be at a minimum a nuisance for parts this size. Delicate features need proper processes in place to make sure the product arrives to the customer undamaged. Automation and clean room molding may be required. Materials Best for Micro Molding Micro molding materials come in almost as many forms as there are ideas in the mind of a Mechanical Engineer. In the world of micro-molding, mission-critical components often require exotic or highly engineered compounds. Materials like PEEK, PEI (Ultem®), carbon filled LCP or glass filled nylons are commonplace. Soft durometer or elastomeric resins are also prominent. Direct experience with these materials in the context of micro-molding is another part of valuable know-how needed to maximize the performance of the resin/part design combination. Customer Satisfaction Ankeny, IA When it’s all said and done it’s about the finished component or assembly. An authentic micro-molder produces extreme parts consistently and efficiently every time. A true micro molder is ultimately there to meet the high demands of modern manufacturing. The artistry and ingenuity in the process is lost if, in the end, the product does not satisfy the customer. Even though micro molding may seem new and novel, Accumold has been in the “micro” business for more than two decades and have produced billions of micro molded parts over the years. It’s where we started as a company, and it’s where we continue to grow, innovate and produce. True micro molding is our way of thinking, our way of doing, and our way of life. Please reach out today if you have questions!