A German manufacturer of precision positioning stages for microscopy was developing a new compact stage with integrated piezo actuators. The design required small diameter pivot pins to connect the actuator to the moving platform while allowing precise, friction-free rotation.
The Challenge
The client's stage design required pivot pins with the following specifications:
Diameter: 3mm with ±0.008mm tolerance
Length: 12mm
Material: 316 stainless steel
Surface finish: Ra 0.4μm on bearing surface
Passivation for corrosion protection
Quantity: 800 pins for initial production
The small diameter and tight tolerance made this a challenging part to produce consistently. The client had difficulty finding a supplier willing to work with such tight tolerances on small diameter parts.
Our Solution
Tingfeng Hardware reviewed the pin drawing and tolerancing. We proposed manufacturing the pivot pins from 316 stainless steel on our precision CNC turning equipment. Key process steps included:
Precision CNC turning to achieve 3mm diameter with ±0.008mm tolerance
End chamfering for smooth installation
Passivation per ASTM A967 for corrosion protection
100% diameter measurement on all parts
We produced the 800 pins in 12 days, with each part inspected for diameter and surface finish.
Outcome
The pivot pins fitted precisely into the stage assembly and allowed smooth, friction-free rotation of the moving platform. The 316 stainless steel material provided excellent corrosion resistance for cleanroom use. The client has since ordered additional pins for two other stage models.