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High Precision Extrusion Houses Subsea Controls
01 Feb 2005
Mifa Aluminium bv specialises in extruding high precision, complex profiles in aluminium with tolerances 10 times more precise than the general extrusion standard (i. e. +/-0.015mm).
This capability recently won Mifa work on a technically challenging project with Kvearner Oilfield Products on its 'iCon' subsea electronic module that demonstrated how versatile, and cost effective, precision extrusion technology can be.
The iCon module is the framework for a subsea control system, used at depths as far as 3,000m for oil and gas production. It is designed as robust housing to accommodate a wide range of configurations of control and data acquisition electronics packages.
In the early design stages, the client chose extrusion as the main production method for the module.
The profile looks difficult but, by using the precision extrusion process, it is technically achievable and also offers significant cost savings, compared to machining parts out of solid material.
Mifa's capability to extrude to such fine tolerances has been developed using special alloys, advanced production processes, and extensive R&D investments, in addition to over 25 years of experience in the field of tool design and correction.
Mifa worked closely with the client during the design and prototyping stages and manufactured the complete end product using its full range of in-house advanced manufacturing techniques:
precision extrusion, machining and finishing.
www.mifa.nl
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