PHTA installs micro 3D printer for medical device manufacturing

The Precision Health Technologies Accelerator (PHTA) at The University of Birmingham has installed a microArch S240 from Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF), a pioneering micro-precision 3D printer designed for short-run industrial production and advanced life sciences R&D.

Built on BMF’s patented Projection Micro Stereolithography technology (PµSL), the microArch S240 uses a flash of UV light to cure entire layers of liquid polymer at micro-scale resolution. This enables the creation of intricate, exact, and replicable parts using industrial-grade materials with a range of attributes.

“We’re thrilled to see the microArch S240 helping to advance medical innovation in the West Midlands,” said Bryan Ferrand, Director of EMEA, Boston Micro Fabrication. “PHTA’s commitment to enabling researchers and start-ups perfectly aligns with BMF’s mission to make ultra-high-precision 3D printing accessible for life sciences and other industries where miniaturisation and accuracy are critical.”

Capable of producing ultra-fine features with exceptionally tight tolerances, this micro-precision printer enables the rapid fabrication of complex microfluidic devices, microneedle arrays, miniature endoscopic components, MEMS and biosensors, as well as intricate tissue engineering scaffolds and implantable micro-devices. It also opens up new possibilities for creating internal channels, freeform geometries, and patient-specific parts that, with traditional manufacturing methods, have not been possible.

Sitting within PHTA’s 4,100 sq ft Makerspace, this advanced printer offers researchers and companies the most accurate, high-resolution 3D printing capability available, supporting innovation in medical device manufacturing, microfluidics, biotech and pharma.

Rhys Coldrick, Makerspace Technical Advisor at PHTA, said: “The Makerspace is far more than just a collection of high-spec machines. We’ve designed the space and our services to remove barriers, giving innovators, start-ups and research teams the tools and support they need to bring their ideas to life.

“From technical support to in-depth training and a full design service, entrepreneurs and companies can access the BMF microArch S240 in the way that works best for them. Whether they’re developing early proof-of-concept models or exploring commercialisation, our team can help with everything from CAD design and optimisation to materials advice and production methods.”

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