End effectors, made from the metal-matrix composite AlSiC (aluminum silicon carbide), have the strength and stiffness of steel at one-third the density.
The units offer lower inertial response, higher stiffness, and higher strength than traditional materials such as stainless steel, molybdenum, graphite composites, and ceramic. Functional components, such as fiber-optic feeds, wafer shoes, and location pins are integrated using the company's QuickCast process. The end effectors may be coated with functional coatings including Ni plating, anodization, and Teflon-impregnated anodization.
