I need to cut up pieces from a mesh like structure (3D printed) made up of steel wires, the diameter is 0.2 mm and length would be 1.5 mm. Yes, its extremely small and I need to cut them apart without leaving any residual stress/deformation. That is, the cutting tool has to be very sharp and quick in operation, as far as I understand. Maybe a pliers like device?
Any help is appreciated.
Here is a picture of the said structure, with a paperclip for scale - http://i.imgur.com/3imSgcO.jpg
I have added a picture in OP, please have a look.
Anything you use will leave some form a "deformation" maybe a dremel on low speed. Looks like some kind of filter?
It really depends how you intend to cut it. I say this because most tools you use will only let you cut anout 3 wires deep. If yoi are just cutting the edges a nail side cutter is good
Could you freeze it into a block of ice and then cut with a fine tooth saw?
The ice will provide the "stabilising matrix" to prevent squishing it out of shape while the saw cuts through..
You'd want to use degassed water maybe?
And maybe utilise one of those fancy ice systems that make clear ice with the help of compression.
And a frame to embed it into the middle of the block.
Cut away most of the surrounding ice with something coarse, then use the finer saw to cut through the remainder. Finish with some wet/dry paper to smooth off the cut surface and then leave it out in the sun to defrost.
The risk will be that freezing will cause its own deformations!
I believe all mechanical cutters deform: the cutting edges >< (or \/, /) put axial stress on the wire. Had it as a problem in speeding up a process during High Reliability Soldering. Even lasing often stresses with the sudden thermal pulse, but controlling levels, it probably likely to result in smallest deformation. (Need to remember where the vaporised metal goes though)
Consider asking the question on phs.org
Presbyterian Healthcare Services?? Lol…wtf?
Dremel tool
Maybe check out jewelry making tools, they are designed for intricate work like that.
Some sort of pliers?
Yes, you can get various ones with quite narrow tips. Admittedly they still may be too big for the cube you are cutting, but worth a try. You can get a pair for a few dollars on ebay.
Cutting lasers!
Would that work? Check with your local university/science lab if they have one to borrow?
Pizza cutter?