Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - CeTaQ Announces MCA Testing for Lasers

Lasers used in precision micromachining and manufacturing of medical devices and biomedical products such as tissue-growing scaffolds, cell sorters and microfluidics must make precise cuts, often within the micron tolerance range.

CeTaQ Americas’ Machine Capability Analysis (MCA) testing is applicable to laser systems. The test methodology measures the width of the laser cut as well as beam size and consistency, comparing the actual result with the programmed pattern and process settings. Is applicable to lasers used in cutting, welding, and scribing, stencil cutting, laser marking (such as matrix labeling) and other applications such as drilling.

All types of lasers, including UV (excimer and DPSS) can be evaluated. In laser processing, typically the laser head is stationary, and the product is moved under the beam via high-precision air bearing stages. The test methodology verifies the X-Y accuracy of these stages and the motion control system.

MCA testing is a third-party, objective evaluation methodology in which special vision algorithms, accurate glass plates and components are utilized for independent measurement of Cp and Cpk indices on production equipment. The laser system verification process uses a transparent heat-sensitive film in conjunction with the glass plate measurement system.

CeTaQ America, cetaq.com