An innovative micro and nano-engineering centre (metaFAB) at the University of Cardiff has become the first UK site to order a iNEXIV VMA-2520 video measuring system from Nikon
The system's precision 3D measuring capabilities will help metaFAB improve the quality of its laser micromachining service to industry, leading to radically enhanced products in areas as diverse as medicine, diagnostics, industrial automation and optical telecommunications.
In addition to the iNEXIV VMA-2520, the Cardiff Centre has also ordered an MM800 manual measuring microscope, an AZ100 multi-purpose macro/micro zoom microscope and a SMZ800 stereo microscope, allowing it to create a complete Nikon imaging suite.
MetaFAB is one of 22 government backed open-access MicroNanoTechnology Centres and a founder of the Next Generation Engineering Consortium (XGEN).
The support enables companies, particularly smaller enterprises and start-ups, to use equipment, such as the microscopy suite, on a pay-for-use basis.
The Welsh Assembly Government provided financial support for the specific Nikon purchase and its spokesman, Dr Steve Davies, commented: "We were very pleased to contribute to the purchase of the XGEN Microscopy Suite which will also act as a regional demonstrator site for Nikon in Wales".
Engineers at Cardiff are using short-burst, femto-second lasers to machine materials such as stainless steel, carbon, biopolymers, fused silica and plastics without causing thermal damage to the samples.
They are also using deep UV 157nm laser techniques to fabricate quality microfluidic and optical components from amorphous fluoropolymers, PEEK and quartz.
According to Professor David Barrow, professor of Microsystems Technology at the University of Cardiff, "We considered video-based measuring systems from several companies before opting for the iNEXIV VMA-2520 because it combined both the 3D measuring performance we required with the high spec optical system we needed to view our samples and capture digital images.
"We were impressed by Nikon's extended range of measuring and inspection products, and they put together a very cost effective package that allowed us to equip an entire imaging suite.
"This will not only help us improve our research, and enable high-tech companies in the region to advance their capabilities but also extends our portfolio of companies locating demonstrator equipment at metaFAB".
