The Centre for Ultrasound Engineering (CUE) at the University of Strathclyde is developing novel piezoelectric devices using a laser-based micro machining system.

The Centre for Ultrasound Engineering (CUE) at the University of Strathclyde is developing novel piezoelectric devices using an Oxford Lasers micro machining system. As part of their research programme CUE used the Oxford Lasers system to machine an array of pillars in PZT to form a composite ultrasound transducer. Each pillar was 80 microns x 80 microns x 250 microns and the gap between the pillars was 20 microns; the complete array contained several thousand pillars.

The completed composite transducer was then tested to determine its performance characteristics and was able to detect accurate signals transmitted along a 140mm long steel bar, generated using a standard 10MHz probe and pulsar unit.

The machining of small 3D structures and precise blind features can be achieved with the extremely accurate dimensional control, low level of recast material and small heat affected zone that are typical of the copper laser.

Careful control of the laser parameters and manipulation of the work piece make it possible to micro mill these very fine features in PZT and most other very hard materials.

The unique characteristics of the copper laser make it possible to mill slots as narrow as a few microns and with the correct configuration can be used to produced contoured features over a relatively large area.

With the combination of high precision and high material removal rate, this technique is well suited to machining small components or micro moulds.

Oxford Lasers, as well as providing standard or fully automated bespoke systems, has well equipped Application Laboratories that can carry out single item or batch production for customers who do not wish to purchase a complete laser system or who wish to try out a new design.