Achieve Perfection with Micro-Erosion
Maximum Precision & Highest Standards for the Smallest Parts

Micro-erosion at Retero GmbH achieves tolerances of up to +/- 0.001 mm and produces surfaces with minimal roughness. This guarantees the highest precision and quality in the manufacturing of the smallest components.

Thanks to our efficient processes and advanced technologies, we can manufacture your parts quickly and reliably without compromising on quality. The exact production time depends on the specific requirements of your project.

Yes, we offer prototype manufacturing as well as small series production. Our micro-erosion technology is perfect for creating precise prototypes that meet your exact specifications.

Erosion is a simple process: An electrode made of hard metal, silver, or tungsten serves as the tool. It is brought very close to the workpiece without actually touching it. As current begins to flow between the workpiece and the electrode, a spark discharge occurs. This generates extremely high temperatures between 8,000 and 12,000 degrees, causing material to be removed from the workpiece. Any material that conducts electricity can be processed using the erosion method. The amount of material removed depends primarily on the polarity, the gap width between the electrode and the workpiece, as well as the duration and intensity of the process.

These discharges and material removal take place in a special environment, requiring a non-conductive medium such as mineral oil or deionized water. This medium is also known as the dielectric; it is either contained in a basin or delivered to the work area through tubes. The dielectric compensates for the very high temperatures during the erosion process and also transports the removed material away. Therefore, it surrounds both the workpiece and the electrode during the machining process.

Micro-erosion allows for absolutely precise material removal and the execution of complex shapes, delicate contours, tiny radii, and minimal bores. It is suitable for a wide range of industries, including mechanical engineering, medical technology, watchmaking, automotive manufacturing, and aerospace. Additionally, various materials can be eroded, including hard titanium, hardened steel, and ceramics.

Retero offers surface roughness levels up to Ra 0.05 / N2 during erosion and achievable tolerances up to +/- 0.001 mm. Minimum radii are 0.02 mm. The manufacturing technique includes the processing of small, precise bores and preparation for wire erosion. Retero works with a variety of materials such as steel, hardened and alloyed steels (INOX), non-ferrous metals, ceramics, and hard metals. Our company meets the ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 quality standards.

Retero can process parts with wire diameters ranging from 0.02 to 0.10 mm and micro-drillings with carbide electrodes from 0.10 mm and larger. Dimensional deviations are only within a few thousandths of a millimeter, and after erosion, the surfaces are left with a brilliant and high-quality finish.

Micro-erosion enables the machining of very small parts with maximum precision, delicate contours, and tiny bores. Compared to traditional machining techniques like milling or honing, it allows for the creation of complex geometric shapes and extreme precision. Additionally, it permits the processing of a wide range of materials, which is often difficult or impossible with other methods.

Micro-erosion technology is used in various industries, including the electronics industry for the production of tiny components, the medical technology sector for precise implants, the aerospace industry for complex components, and the watchmaking industry for high-quality movements. Additionally, it is employed in the automotive industry, tool and mold making, as well as in the manufacturing of fine mechanical components.

Yes, there are several alternative methods to micro-erosion. These include micro-milling technology, where tiny milling tools are used, micro-drilling with lasers, or micro-cutting with lasers or water jets. Each method has its specific applications and advantages and disadvantages in terms of precision, material processing, and shape complexity. The choice of the right method depends on the requirements of the particular project.

Our micro machining processes work with a wide range of materials, including titanium, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, hardened steel, ceramics, polymers, and composites.

Micro machining is widely used in industries such as medical technology, aerospace, electronics, watchmaking, automotive, and photonics due to its ability to deliver precise and reliable components.

Retero GmbH achieves tolerances as tight as +/- 0.001 mm and surface finishes up to Ra 0.05, ensuring the highest level of precision for even the most complex parts.

Micro machining specializes in creating parts on a much smaller scale, with tighter tolerances and finer surface finishes, whereas traditional machining handles larger components with less stringent precision requirements.

We process parts with wire diameters as small as 0.02 mm and micro drillings starting at 0.10 mm using carbide electrodes.

Yes, we can produce intricate shapes, including delicate contours, minimal radii, and extremely fine bores.

Oil bath processing minimizes heat generation and prevents corrosion, ensuring optimal precision and surface quality for sensitive materials like ceramics and hard metals.

We use cutting-edge CNC micro machining, micro milling, micro EDM, and laser micro machining to deliver unmatched precision and efficiency.

Yes, our micro machining services are ideal for prototyping and small-batch production, offering fast turnaround times and high precision.

Yes, our micro machining services include processing non-metal materials such as polymers and composites, ensuring the same level of precision and quality as with metals.