Life support machines depend on reliable, accurate motion control to help healthcare professionals deliver safe and consistent patient care. Whether controlling airflow, pumping fluids or positioning critical components, electric motors play a vital role in ensuring medical equipment operates with exceptional precision and dependability.

At Micromech, we supply high-performance motors and motion control solutions suitable for manufacturers developing life support and critical care equipment.

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Where motors are used in life support equipment

Precision motors are commonly integrated into a wide range of medical devices, including:

• Mechanical ventilators
• Anaesthesia delivery systems
• Heart-lung bypass machines
• Dialysis equipment
• Infusion and syringe pumps
• Oxygen concentrators
• Patient positioning systems
• Medical suction equipment

These applications require smooth, repeatable motion, rapid response times and reliable operation, often in environments where equipment is expected to run continuously.

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Why precision matters

In life support equipment, even the smallest movement can have a significant impact on performance. Motion control systems must provide:

• Accurate speed and position control
• Smooth, vibration-free operation
• Quiet performance for patient comfort
• High reliability during continuous operation
• Compact designs for space-constrained medical equipment
• Long service life with minimal maintenance

Selecting the right motor helps manufacturers achieve the performance and consistency demanded in critical care environments.

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Motion control solutions from Micromech

Micromech supplies a broad range of motion control products suitable for medical equipment manufacturers, including:

• Brushless servo motors
• Precision stepper motors
• Linear motors
• Servo drives
• Motion controllers
• Precision gearboxes
• Rotary and linear encoders

Working with leading global manufacturers, we help engineers select the most appropriate solution for demanding medical applications.

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Why choose Micromech?

• Expert technical support
• Wide range of industry-leading suppliers
• Custom motion control solutions
• High-performance products for precision applications
• Support from prototype through to production

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Looking for motors for life support equipment?

Our experienced engineers can help you select the right motion control solution for your medical application.

Contact Micromech today to discuss your project.

Modern medical equipment relies on highly accurate and dependable motion control technology to deliver safe, repeatable and efficient operation. From diagnostic imaging systems and laboratory automation to surgical devices and patient handling equipment, motion control plays a critical role in improving healthcare outcomes.

Why Motion Control Matters in Medical Applications

Medical equipment often operates in environments where precision and reliability are essential. Even the smallest positioning error can affect image quality, test results or treatment accuracy.

Advanced motion control systems provide:

• Precise positioning and repeatability
• Smooth and controlled movement
• High reliability and long service life
• Compact designs for space-constrained equipment
• Low noise and vibration levels
• Compliance with demanding industry standards

These characteristics help medical device manufacturers develop equipment that performs consistently while meeting stringent regulatory requirements.

Applications of Motion Control in Medical Equipment

Diagnostic Imaging Systems

Motion control technology is widely used in MRI, CT and X-ray equipment. Linear stages, servo motors and precision actuators enable accurate positioning of imaging components and patient platforms, helping to improve image quality and diagnostic accuracy.

Laboratory Automation

Automated testing and sample handling systems rely on precise motion control to move samples, dispense liquids and position instruments. High-speed, repeatable motion improves throughput while reducing the risk of human error.

Surgical and Robotic Systems

Medical robotics and surgical equipment require exceptionally accurate motion control. Servo motors, direct drive motors and precision encoders enable smooth, controlled movement for minimally invasive procedures and robotic-assisted surgery.

Patient Handling and Rehabilitation Equipment

Linear actuators and lifting systems provide controlled movement in hospital beds, patient lifts and rehabilitation equipment. Reliable motion control helps improve patient comfort and safety while reducing physical strain on healthcare professionals.

Pharmaceutical and Life Science Equipment

Motion control systems are also used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratory research and drug development processes where accurate positioning and repeatable operation are essential.

Key Motion Control Technologies

A range of motion control products can be integrated into medical equipment depending on the application requirements.

Servo Motors

Servo motors deliver precise speed, torque and position control, making them ideal for imaging equipment, laboratory automation and medical robotics.

Linear Actuators

Electric linear actuators provide controlled linear movement for patient positioning systems, medical beds and diagnostic equipment.

Linear Motors

Direct drive linear motors offer high accuracy, smooth motion and minimal maintenance, making them suitable for high-performance medical applications.

Encoders

Precision encoders provide position feedback, ensuring accurate motion control and repeatability throughout the system.

Motion Controllers and Drives

Advanced controllers and drives coordinate multiple axes of motion, enabling complex movement profiles and synchronised operation across medical equipment.

Supporting Medical Device Manufacturers

Selecting the right motion control solution is critical when designing medical equipment. Factors such as accuracy, cleanliness, reliability, noise levels and operating environment must all be considered.

Micromech supplies a wide range of motion control technologies from leading manufacturers, helping medical equipment designers and OEMs develop systems that deliver precise, reliable performance in demanding healthcare applications.

Whether the requirement is for servo motors, linear actuators, direct drive motors, encoders or complete motion control systems, our engineers can help identify the most suitable solution for your application.

Talk to the Experts

Micromech works with medical equipment manufacturers across a variety of healthcare and life science applications, providing technical support and motion control solutions tailored to specific project requirements.

Contact our team to discuss your medical motion control application and discover how precision motion technology can enhance equipment performance, reliability and patient outcomes.

​To speak to one of our engineers, please visit our Contact Us page

Robotic surgery demands precision, reliability and smooth performance. At Micromech, we distribute high-quality motors from leading manufacturers and provide expert guidance to help UK medical robotics companies select components suitable for surgical applications.

Precision Motion for Surgical Robotics

Surgical robots enhance dexterity, stability and control, allowing surgeons to perform delicate procedures with greater accuracy. Achieving this relies on motors that provide ultra-fine positioning with minimal backlash, vibration and delay.

Through our expertise, we can specify motors that deliver:

• High resolution and repeatability – essential for sub-micron positioning

• Smooth, controllable motion – critical for instrument articulation and soft tissue handling

• Rapid dynamic response – enabling real-time precision during procedures

Our team works closely with OEMs to identify the right motor for each subsystem, from articulated arms to end-effectors and camera positioning units.

Motor Technologies We Support

We offer a wide range of motor types suitable for robotic surgery, including:

• Brushless DC (BLDC) motors – high efficiency with continuous torque for joints and axes

• Servo motors with integrated feedback – for precise closed-loop control

• Stepper motors – compact, incremental motion for fine positional control

• Custom options – adapted to specific shaft, winding, or encoder requirements

By providing access to motors from trusted manufacturers, we help UK OEMs match performance, size and cost requirements while identifying components suitable for medical use.

Why Motor Selection Matters

Choosing the right motor is critical for both robotic performance and patient safety. Key considerations include:

• Torque density for compact, lightweight designs

• Smooth motion with minimal cogging to prevent unintended micro-movements

• Compatibility with sterilisation and cleanroom environments where required

• Resilience to electrical interference in clinical settings

Micromech advises design teams on motors suitable for ISO 13485 or other medical standards, ensuring components meet regulatory and performance requirements for surgical applications.

Integration Across Robotic Subsystems

Motors are at the heart of many surgical robot functions, including:

• Articulated arm joints

• End-effector tool changers

• Camera and imaging platform positioning

• Force-feedback and haptic systems

• Linear patient interface stages

We provide technical support, component sourcing and supply chain solutions to simplify integration and accelerate development.

Partnering for Innovation

As robotic surgery evolves, so do the demands on motion control technology. Micromech helps UK medical robotics companies access leading motors, specify components suitable for surgical use, and optimise system performance — supporting innovation from concept to delivery.

To speak to one of our engineers, please visit our Contact Us page

Introduction

In today’s world of modern medicine, accuracy and dependability are essential. Whether it’s a robotic surgical arm, an MRI scanner, or a patient monitoring system, every movement and adjustment must be exact. This is where servo motors play a vital role. These compact, high-performance motors are the driving force behind many of today’s most advanced medical machines.

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What Are Servo Motors?

A servo motor is a specialised electric motor designed for precise control of position, velocity and acceleration. Operating with a built-in feedback mechanism, it constantly monitors and adjusts its performance to match the desired output. This makes servo motors ideal for applications where even the slightest deviation can make a difference — such as in medical, diagnostic and laboratory equipment.

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Applications of Servo Motors in the Medical Sector

Servo motors are used in a wide variety of healthcare and life-science systems, including:

1. Robotic Surgery Systems
   Surgical robots rely on servo motors for smooth, controlled and repeatable motion. These motors enable surgeons to perform delicate procedures with exceptional accuracy and minimal invasiveness.
2. Imaging Equipment (CT, MRI and X-ray Machines)
   Servo motors ensure accurate positioning of imaging components, producing clearer images and faster scanning times.
3. Patient Care and Mobility Devices
   Electric hospital beds, wheelchairs and rehabilitation machines use servo motors to adjust positions safely and comfortably.
4. Laboratory Automation
   Servo-driven pipetting and dispensing systems enable high-speed, precise liquid handling — vital in diagnostics and pharmaceutical research.
5. Dental and Ophthalmic Equipment
   Servo motors deliver fine control in dental drills, microscopes and laser positioning systems, enhancing precision and patient safety.

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Key Advantages of Servo Motors in Medical Devices

• High Precision and Repeatability: Servo systems maintain tight control over motion, critical for surgical and diagnostic applications.
• Compact Design: Small form factors allow easy integration into portable or space-restricted devices.
• Low Noise and Vibration: Ideal for use in quiet, sensitive hospital and laboratory environments.
• Energy Efficiency: Servo motors use power efficiently, reducing heat output and improving system lifespan.
• Reliability: Designed for continuous, error-free operation, ensuring both patient safety and maximum equipment uptime.

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Selecting the Right Servo Motor for Medical Applications

When specifying a servo motor for medical use, consider the following:

• Torque and Speed Requirements
• Precision Level
• Feedback Type (Encoder or Resolver)
• Cleanroom and Hygiene Compatibility
• Compliance with Medical Standards (e.g. ISO 13485, UK CA, CE)

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Conclusion

Servo motors are the quiet enablers behind many life-saving technologies. Their unmatched precision, reliability and responsiveness make them indispensable in modern medical engineering. As healthcare technology continues to advance, the role of servo motors will only grow — powering innovations that improve patient outcomes and shape the future of medical equipment design.

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About Micromech

As a leading UK distributor, Micromech supplies and supports servo motors from a range of world-class manufacturers, offering tailored solutions to meet the specific regulatory and performance requirements of medical and life-science applications. The company also provides expert advice and full engineering support for OEMs across the medical, laboratory, and life-science sectors.

To speak to one of our engineers, please visit our Contact Us page

Precision motors are driving safer, more reliable blood circulation in medical devices.

Introduction

Medical device engineers are making significant strides in developing peristaltic blood pumps, thanks to innovations in motor technology. These pumps are widely used in hospitals and research laboratories. Moreover, they rely on carefully controlled motors to ensure precise blood flow without causing damage to blood cells.

How Peristaltic Blood Pumps Work

Peristaltic blood pumps work by compressing flexible tubing in a controlled sequence, mimicking a peristaltic wave. Therefore, the motors must combine high precision, smooth operation, and reliability. Even small fluctuations in speed or torque can affect performance and compromise patient safety.

Motor Technology Advancements

Recent advancements in motor technology, including brushless DC (BLDC) motors and servo motors, have improved both the accuracy and lifespan of peristaltic blood pumps. Additionally, these motors provide precise rotational control, low vibration, and consistent torque. As a result, blood flow is smoother and haemolysis — the destruction of red blood cells — is reduced.

Furthermore, integrating advanced feedback systems, such as encoders and torque sensors, allows for real-time monitoring and adjustments. Consequently, pumps maintain consistent output even under varying loads. This is crucial for sensitive medical applications, including dialysis, cardiopulmonary bypass, and laboratory research.

Future Trends and Applications

Industry trends show that the continued development of compact, energy-efficient motors will further enhance peristaltic pump capabilities. These innovations will enable smaller, portable devices suitable for bedside treatment or home care. In turn, this expands access to critical therapies.

Motor technology is central to modern peristaltic pumps. By improving precision and reliability, these advancements increase device performance and enhance patient safety.

Conclusion

With ongoing research and collaboration between motor manufacturers and medical device companies, the future of peristaltic blood pumping looks promising. Therefore, as these technologies evolve, patients and healthcare providers can benefit from safer, more efficient blood circulation solutions.

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For more information on suitable motors and drive solutions for peristaltic blood pumps, contact our engineers.

Centrifugal pumps are essential components in many medical and healthcare devices, including dialysis machines, blood circulation systems, medical imaging equipment, and laboratory apparatus. Selecting the appropriate motor to drive these pumps is crucial as it impacts performance, patient safety, reliability, and hygiene standards.

Importance of Centrifugal Pumps in Medical Equipment

In medical devices, centrifugal pumps perform precise fluid handling tasks such as:

• Circulating blood or dialysis fluids gently to avoid damage to delicate cells.
• Delivering medicines or fluids at carefully controlled flow rates.
• Cooling components in imaging devices like MRI or CT scanners.

Key Motor Requirements for Medical Centrifugal Pumps

Precision and Smooth Operation

Motors must provide smooth and accurate control to prevent sudden surges or drops in flow, ensuring consistent fluid delivery essential for patient safety.

Low Noise and Vibration

To maintain a quiet clinical environment and patient comfort, motors with minimal noise and vibration are preferred.

Compact and Lightweight Design

Medical devices often have limited space, so motors need to be compact and lightweight without compromising power.

High Reliability and Longevity

Medical equipment must function reliably over long periods with minimal maintenance to avoid treatment interruptions.

Sterility and Cleanroom Compatibility

Motors and pumps must comply with strict hygiene standards, including sealed enclosures to prevent contamination and facilitate cleaning.

Types of Motors Used in Medical Centrifugal Pumps

• Brushless DC Motors (BLDC)
  Favoured for their high efficiency, precise speed control, low noise, and long operational life. Being electronically commutated, they eliminate brushes, reducing wear and the risk of particle contamination.
• Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM)
  These offer excellent torque control and efficiency, suitable for applications requiring precise flow rates.
• Micro Induction Motors
  Sometimes used for less demanding tasks, valued for their robustness and simplicity.

Control Technologies

• Closed-Loop Feedback Systems
  Utilising sensors such as encoders or Hall-effect sensors to provide real-time speed and position feedback ensures accurate pump performance.
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) or Electronic Controllers
  Allow adjustable motor speeds, enabling tailored fluid delivery and energy efficiency.

Safety and Compliance

Medical devices must adhere to rigorous standards such as ISO 13485 for medical device quality management and IEC 60601 for electrical safety. Motors employed in centrifugal pumps must be certified to these standards to ensure patient and operator safety.

Applications in the Medical Sector

• Haemodialysis Machines
  Precisely control blood and dialysate flow while minimising cell damage.
• Cardiopulmonary Bypass Systems
  Ensure continuous and reliable blood circulation during surgery.
• Infusion Pumps
  Deliver fluids accurately at controlled rates.
• Laboratory Equipment
  Handle reagents and samples with precision and sterility.

Summary

Motors for centrifugal pumps in the medical sector must meet exacting standards for precision, reliability, hygiene, and safety. Brushless DC and permanent magnet synchronous motors dominate this sector due to their superior control, efficiency, and compact size. Combined with advanced control systems, these motors enable vital medical devices to operate safely and effectively.

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Need assistance with a new project? Contact our engineers — we’re ready to help get the ball rolling.

Peristaltic pumps are widely used in medical devices due to their ability to handle fluids with precision and without direct contact between the fluid and the pump components. This design minimises the risk of contamination, making them ideal for applications such as:

• Intravenous (IV) Infusion Systems: Delivering medicines and fluids directly into the bloodstream.
• Dialysis Machines: Circulating blood and dialysate in renal treatments.
• Enteral Feeding Systems: Administering nutrition to patients who cannot eat orally.
• Chemotherapy Infusion Pumps: Precisely controlling the delivery of chemotherapy drugs.
• Laboratory Applications: Handling reagents and samples in diagnostic equipment.

Motor Types Commonly Used in Peristaltic Pumps

The choice of motor is crucial for ensuring accurate flow rates, reliability, and compliance with medical standards. The main motor types include:

Stepper Motors

• Functionality: Provide precise control over rotation, making them suitable for applications requiring accurate dosing.
• Advantages: High torque at low speeds, often do not require feedback systems.
• Considerations: Can produce noise and vibration; microstepping can improve smoothness.

Brushless DC (BLDC) Motors

• Functionality: Offer smooth operation and high efficiency, ideal for continuous use.
• Advantages: Low maintenance, long lifespan, and quiet performance.
• Considerations: Require electronic controllers and more complex design.

Brushed DC Motors

• Functionality: Simplest motor type, often used in basic infusion pumps.
• Advantages: Easy speed control with voltage adjustment.
• Considerations: Brushes wear over time; less smooth operation compared to BLDC or stepper motors.

Key Motor Features for Medical Peristaltic Pumps

When selecting a motor for medical peristaltic pumps, consider the following:

• Precision and Repeatability: Ensures accurate fluid delivery.
• Smooth, Low-Pulse Torque: Minimises pulsation and maintains consistent flow.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Suitable for portable medical devices.
• Low Noise and Vibration: Enhances patient comfort and device reliability.
• Compliance with Medical Standards: Adherence to ISO 13485, IEC 60601, and other relevant standards.

Supplier for Medical Peristaltic Pump Components

Micromech are a leading supplier of products tailored specifically for medical applications, including motors and components optimised for medical peristaltic pumps.

In addition to supplying components, Micromech can modify components to suit our customer’s requirements including:

• Fitting connectors
• Adding cable looms
• Fitting temperature sensors
• Fitting lead screws to motor shafts
• Assembly of motors, gearboxes and encoders
• Labelling

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Need assistance with a new project? Contact our engineers — we’re ready to help get the ball rolling.

Introduction

Syringe pumps are critical tools in industries and research settings where precise, repeatable, and controlled fluid delivery is essential. Whether in microfluidics, drug development, chemical synthesis, or biotechnology, the demand for higher accuracy and programmability has led to the evolution of motion control syringe pumps — a sophisticated class of pumps that integrate mechanical engineering with advanced motion control systems.

What Are Motion Control Syringe Pumps?

Motion control syringe pumps are automated devices designed to accurately dispense or withdraw fluids using a motor-driven mechanism. Unlike manual syringe pumps, motion-controlled versions employ stepper motors, servo motors, and closed-loop feedback systems to deliver fluid with exceptional precision.

These pumps use programmed motion profiles to move the syringe plunger, allowing users to control flow rate, volume, acceleration, and even pulsation patterns. Integration with microcontrollers or PLCs (programmable logic controllers) allows seamless operation in automated systems or lab setups.

Key Components

Syringe Drive Mechanism

At the heart of the pump is a linear actuator that pushes or pulls the syringe plunger. The actuator is typically driven by:

• Stepper motors: Known for accuracy and repeatability.
• Servo motors: Used when higher torque and closed-loop feedback are needed.

Lead Screw or Ball Screw Assembly

This mechanical component converts rotary motion into linear displacement with minimal backlash, ensuring consistent flow.

Controller and Software Interface

Motion profiles are defined using embedded software or connected interfaces (PC or touchscreen). Features include:

• Flow rate programming (nl/min to ml/min)
• Time-based delivery
• Multi-phase protocols
• Real-time monitoring

Sensors and Feedback Loops

Some pumps use encoders and pressure sensors to implement feedback control, compensating for resistance, fluid viscosity, or system anomalies.

Applications

• Microfluidics

Motion control syringe pumps are essential for precise flow regulation in microfluidic chips used in diagnostics, organ-on-chip systems, and lab-on-a-chip platforms.

• Pharmaceutical Research

Automated drug delivery systems require nanoliter precision over extended periods, achievable only through sophisticated motion control.

• Analytical Chemistry

Flow control in HPLC systems or titration setups relies on stable and pulsation-free fluid delivery.

• Biotechnology and Cell Culture

Gradient generation, nutrient delivery, and reagent mixing benefit from programmable fluid handling.

Advantages of Motion Control Syringe Pumps

• High Precision: Delivers from picoliters to milliliters with low error margins.
• Automation-Friendly: Easily integrated into robotic systems and lab automation platforms.
• Programmability: Customizable dispensing sequences and profiles.
• Bidirectional Flow: Enables both aspiration and dispensing.
• Low Pulsation: Ensures stable flows critical for sensitive experiments.

Considerations for Implementation

When selecting or designing a motion control syringe pump, factors to consider include:

• Syringe size and material compatibility
• Flow rate range and resolution
• Communication protocols (USB, RS-232, Ethernet, Modbus)
• Cleanroom or sterile operation requirements
• Maintenance and calibration needs

Future Trends

The field is moving toward more compact, intelligent, and wireless syringe pumps. Innovations include:

• AI-assisted control algorithms for adaptive fluid delivery
• Integration with IoT for remote monitoring
• Multi-syringe coordinated systems for gradient or multi-fluid applications

Conclusion

Motion control syringe pumps represent a convergence of mechanical precision and smart automation. As industries demand ever-greater control over fluid handling, these systems are becoming indispensable in both R&D and industrial production settings. By offering precision, programmability, and adaptability, motion control syringe pumps are setting new standards for accuracy in fluid dynamics.

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Micromech brings extensive experience in motion control for the medical sector, working with leading OEMs to deliver high-performance, cost-effective solutions. We offer full support with product and technology specification, along with customised services including product modifications, complete sub-assemblies, and tailored cabling and connectors. Need assistance with a new project? Contact our engineers — we’re ready to help get the ball rolling.

Centrifugal pumps play a vital role in numerous medical and pharmaceutical applications across the UK, including:

• Dialysis machines
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Medical fluid delivery systems
• Laboratory instruments
• Blood processing equipment

Key Considerations in the British Medical Sector:

1. Precision and Accuracy:
   • Pumps require highly accurate flow control to ensure consistent dosing and delivery of fluids.
   • Precise motion control helps maintain patient safety and treatment efficacy.
2. Hygiene and Cleanability:
   • Pumps must comply with stringent UK and EU hygiene standards, including MHRA and EU GMP guidelines.
   • Designs facilitate cleaning-in-place (CIP) and sterilisation-in-place (SIP) processes to prevent contamination.
3. Gentle Fluid Handling:
   • Motion control systems are engineered to minimise shear forces, protecting delicate fluids such as blood or biologics.
   • Smooth acceleration and deceleration reduce stress on fluids.
4. Reliability and Safety:
   • Given the critical nature of medical treatments, pumps feature robust fail-safe mechanisms.
   • Real-time monitoring ensures immediate response to any fault or abnormality.
5. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Control systems meet MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) regulations.
   • Data logging and traceability are essential for audits and quality assurance.

Typical Motion Control Technologies Used:

• Brushless DC motors and stepper motors for precise control.
• Variable frequency drives (VFDs) designed specifically for medical pump applications.
• Closed-loop control systems with feedback from flow and pressure sensors.
• Embedded microcontrollers running sophisticated algorithms to maintain steady flow and detect faults.

Example: Dialysis Machine Application

• Controls blood and dialysis fluid flow with high accuracy.
• Ensures fluid handling is gentle to avoid haemolysis (damage to blood cells).
• Incorporates safety interlocks in accordance with UK medical device standards.

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Micromech brings extensive experience in motion control for the medical sector, working with leading OEMs to deliver high-performance, cost-effective solutions. We offer full support with product and technology specification, along with customised services including product modifications, complete sub-assemblies, and tailored cabling and connectors. Need assistance with a new project? Contact our engineers — we’re ready to help get the ball rolling.