Ultra-precision Mechanism Design

From simple best practice on the semi-kinematic mount design for strain free optic support, to specifying the angular limits of monolithic flexural hinge design, understanding the 'tricks of the trade' in the world of the microradian and nanometre make the difference between design success and failure.  

Fabrication Methods and Techniques

Manufacture - Is your structure best produced by casting, extrusion or milled from rolled plate? Should it be conventional machined, spark eroded or water-jet cut? Can cermet composites be sintered to shape without post-operative grinding? A very wide and diverse range of manufacturing techniques exist - we are able select the most suitable process to fit your requirements.

Bonding - from UHV compatible epoxies to diffusion bonding techniques, we can advise and have good contacts with expert resources. 

Joining - The range of joining techniques is extensive. We can advise on the pros and cons of such techniques, from e-beam welding stainless steels to salt bath brazing of aluminium alloys. 

Surface finishing - From hardening of stainless steel surfaces, to proprietary coating in tungsten disulphide. We can advise on the suitability of surface treatments and techniques to meet your specification. 

Material Selection

Consider:- Which way should pyrolitic graphite be oriented when used as an X-ray filter? What problems are associated with carbon-carbon composite structural supports in high dose radiation environments? What are the stress limitations of stainless steels in pressure vessels at elevated temperatures? 

Whilst we are not material science specialists, we do know the answers to these and many other types of queries regarding material selection. We also have links to associated expertise in these fields whenever advice is required on extremely specialised applications. 

Ultra High Vacuum (UHV)

With many years experience accumulated in world class synchrotron technology, we are very familiar with the methods and techniques in UHV down to 10E-10 Torr. From 1st order estimates of ion pump sizes, clean handling processes and material selection to best wire seal techniques, we are conversant both in theory and in practice.

Thermal Engineering

Just some examples of the wide range of thermal problems that we can advise on;

• efficient fin distribution for  cooling in heat absorbers. 

• limits of peltier cooling devices. 

• specification of cryogenic insulation. 

• thermal calculations for heat-loaded optics (See also Analysis hyperlink)

Optic Mount Systems

Our design of mounting systems includes years of best practice in athermal and strain free support systems from small laser-collimator mirrors to large telescope spectrometer prism supports. We can also provide drawings of optic layouts and optical devices to ISO 10110 specification.

Motion Control

The integration of precision mechanical design with motor control technology (mechatronics) is essential to ensure stable, repeatable performance with rapid response in servo-actuated control. IDT can accurately size motors at concept stage, advise on suitable encoder connection combinations and recommend specialist suppliers in motor drive control systems.  

Survey & Alignment

We can devise suitable fiducialisation and survey strategies, dependent on the equipment you have available. We can also specify minimum requirements for set up and alignment of instrumentation such as beamlines. We are familiar with, and know how to get best use out of a variety of survey instrumentation such as autolevels, autocollimators, precision electronic levels and tiltmeters, coordinate measuring machines (CMM), Leica & Taylor-Hobson target systems, and automated triangulation by motorised theodolites.

Safety and CDM

Increasingly important in all avenues of the application of technology, the implications of health and safety are something which IDT engineers take seriously and apply conscientiously in their work. From formal risk assessment and failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) to environmental and construction design management (CDM) regulations, IDT are well versed and trained in health and safety matters.  

Shielding and Leadwork

We cannot advise on health physics calculations, but we do have very close links with specialist shielding suppliers and can design and advise on all types of radiation tight lead shielding fabrications from service labyrinths to complete hutch constructions.