Precision engineering is the sub discipline of mechanical, electrical, optical, production and material science engineering (Wikipedia, 2008, Eionet, 2008). The field is concerned with designing machines, fixtures and other structures that have exceptionally high tolerances, are reproducible and remains stable with time (Wikipedia, 2008).

The primary pillar of Singapore’s manufacturing sector is its precision engineering (PE) industry (Spring Singapore, 2008). The industry is known for its ability in manufacturing components, sub-assemblies and finished products of high quality and precision. It serves a crucial role in the attraction and the retention of the renowned manufacturing clusters such as the electronics, oil, gas as well as the upcoming med tech industry to set up their R&D and their manufacturing facilities in Singapore (Spring Singapore, 2008).

The growing number of Med Tech industries in Singapore provides the companies in the PE industry with opportunities to establish themselves as key suppliers in the production of medical devices. As part of their efforts to become major suppliers in medical device manufacturing, PE companies are gearing themselves up to meet the global standards such as ISO13485 and that set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (Spring Singapore, 2008). In addition, several forums are being conducted to prepare and guide these companies in their efforts.

Currently, several PE companies are involved in the production of high precision components utilized in the manufacture of diagnostic and health care equipment like drug delivery devices, surgical clamps, bone screws, dental implants, intravenous probe and micro-arrays (Spring Singapore, 2008).

Image: Flickr/Precision Engineering