Technology

In Definion, a micro jet of electrolyte is directed at the surface of a metallic workpiece through a nozzle. Integration with multi axis robotic control enables highly accurate machining of the workpiece through dissolution of the metallic material.

Working at the forefront of materials processing, Definion technology was developed to provide an industrial scale solution that is capable of machining hard materials without inputting heat or stress into the workpiece and producing a burr free, highly polished cut surface.  This solves the problems that arise when machining high end engineering materials chosen for mechanical properties such as hardness and ability to withstand wear. Traditional 20th century techniques such as milling, grinding or laser cutting all input heat and stress into the part which can lead to part failure and low yield. They also require specialist skills which can be in short supply.

This problem is acute in high value production environments found in industries such as medical, aerospace, automotive and pharmaceutical.

The Definion technology is the answer to the technical challenges of processing hard materials deployed in an automated and connected solution that is suitable for the modern “lights out” industrial facility.

Definion is built on a combination of hard science and sound engineering principles and will transform industrial processes for finishing, polishing, machining, drilling and structuring difficult materials used in advanced products.

Definion offers the following benefits:

• A turn – key system, fully automated and ready to deploy, not reliant on experienced engineers.
• Fully digital process from design to inspected part.
• Non-contact process, guaranteed to provide a sterile and controlled environment for sensitive applications
• Ambiant temperature process, with no heat stress on the material
• Ability to handle the very hardest and most fragile materials including stainless steel, Inconel, Hastelloy, cobalt chromium, titanium, nitinol, aluminium
• Highly customizable, with a range of processes and finishes possible on the same part at the same time
• An environmentally friendly solution that does not use dangerous chemicals or create harmful waste
• Cost effective solution with no tooling costs, and no risk of damage to valuable parts
• Multi-axis robotic integration enables machining of complex shapes and structures, including internal features
• Integrated measurement enables automated inspection within the process itself