Research and development services and related consultancy services

Tender description

This Expression of Interest is to ascertain the marketplace for companies that can provide for the Moulding, Machining and Bonding of Ceramic Micro-Components. NUI Galway seeks expressions of interest for the development of manufacturing processes for a medical-grade ceramic micro-component. These manufacturing processes are expected to involve the moulding, machining and heat treatment of a ceramic component and subsequent chemical bonding of said component to a metallic housing. Component dimensions will be of the order of 1-5 cubic mm. Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate substantial in-house capability and prior experience with all of the identified manufacturing processes — micro-moulding, machining, heat treating and bonding of zirconia and other ceramic materials. The successful applicant will be expected to work with the client to develop suitable component specifications based on a thorough understanding of the required manufacturing processes, as well as suitable process modelling capabilities (e.g. mould flow analysis, thermal stress prediction). The successful applicant must be able to demonstrate a proven track record of designing processes for commercial production, with DFM (Design for Manufacturing) principles being utilised to evaluate the design and assembly for volume manufacturing. Parts will undergo materials testing to be agreed with client (for example SEM analysis, indentation, tensile, surface roughness) so as to ensure conformance to client needs. Suppliers who wish to express an interest must complete the Expression of Interest Form which is available for downloading from www.etenders.gov.ie — RFT Ref 103616. Completed forms must be submitted to tenders@nuigalway.ie by 5 pm on Monday, 21.3.2016. Please note this is not a call for competition.