Optics
Ultra-precision CNC machining for lenses, mirrors, mounts, and optical assemblies delivering the exacting standards the photonics industry demands.Learn more here.
Overview
The optics and photonics industry operates at the edge of what's physically possible. Whether it's a lens for a semiconductor lithography system or precision mounts for a laser system, every component must meet exacting specifications.
Capabilities
Optical housings and cell assemblies, precision lens mounts and retainers, mirror substrates and backing structures.
Positioning accuracy to ±0.005mm, subject to drawing review
Optical-grade aluminum (6061-T6, 5083), Invar 36 and Super Invar (low expansion), glass and ceramic machining.
Material certs, CTE matching, stress-free machining
Diamond-turning-ready finishes, polishing preparation, optical coating preparation.
Ra 0.1 μm (4 μin) achievable on critical surfaces
CMM inspection, surface profilometry, roundness and cylindricity measurement.
Inspection scope and capability subject to drawing review
Cleanroom-compatible handling, contamination prevention protocols, precision alignment capabilities.
Class 1000 environment available
Published dimensional and performance capabilities are indicative and subject to drawing review.
Certifications & Targeted Standards
“Certified” identifies credentials PiPrecision currently holds. Targeted and planned standards are goals and do not represent current certification.
| Certification | Status | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 9001:2015View certificate | Certified | General Quality Management |
| ISO 10110 | Targeted — not certified | Optics Drawing Standards |
| Cleanroom Certification | Planned — not certified | Controlled Environment |
Quality Processes
- First Article Inspection with full dimensional reports
- Surface finish verification on all critical surfaces
- Material certification and traceability
- Clean handling and contamination control
- CTE (coefficient of thermal expansion) verification
- Flatness and parallelism measurement
Materials We Work With
| Material | Grades | Applications | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optical Aluminum | 6061-T6, 5083-H116, 7075-T6 | Optical benches, housings, mounts | Lightweight, stable, black anodized |
| Invar 36 | Invar 36, Super Invar | Precision mounts, spacers, references | Near-zero thermal expansion (1.2 ppm/°C) |
| Stainless Steel | 303, 304, 316L | Structural mounts, fasteners | Corrosion resistant, non-magnetic options |
| Aluminum Bronze | C95400 | Bearing surfaces, wear pads | Low friction, dimensionally stable |
| Optical Glass | BK7, Fused Silica, Zerodur | Substrates, test plates | Precision machining and shaping |
| Ceramics | Alumina, Zirconia, SiC | Structural components, spacers | High stiffness, low thermal expansion |
Applications We Serve
Imaging Systems
- Camera housings and lens barrels
- Microscope stages and components
- Medical imaging equipment
- Machine vision systems
Laser Systems
- Laser cavity components
- Beam delivery optics mounts
- Galvanometer housings
- Cavity stabilization structures
Semiconductor Equipment
- Lithography system components
- Inspection system optics
- Wafer handling fixtures
- Alignment and metrology tools
Aerospace
- Space telescope structures
- Satellite optical benches
- FLIR system components
- Targeting system mounts
Scientific Instruments
- Spectrometer components
- Interferometer structures
- Telescope mounts and cells
- Quantum optics equipment
Case Study Highlights
Semiconductor Lithography Component
Client: Semiconductor Equipment Manufacturer
Produce ultra-precision aluminum vacuum chamber components for DUV lithography system, requiring extreme flatness (λ/10) and sub-micron dimensional tolerances.
Developed specialized machining sequence with thermal control and stress-relieving operations, achieved Ra 0.1 μm surface finish.
Components met all specifications, integrated successfully into production lithography system, ongoing supplier relationship established.
Space Telescope Mirror Mount
Client: Space Systems Integrator
Machine Invar 36 mirror mounting structure for space telescope, requiring <1 ppm/°C CTE stability and 0.5 μm flatness over 300mm.
Precision machining with slow-speed strategies to minimize heat input, cryogenic stress relief, precision grinding and lapping.
Structure exceeded specifications, passed thermal vacuum testing, qualified for space flight, awarded follow-on contract.
Laser Cavity Stabilization
Client: Industrial Laser Manufacturer
Critical cavity spacer components for ultra-stable laser, requiring ±0.005mm length tolerance and super-polished surfaces.
Ultra-precision turning and grinding with in-process measurement, temperature-controlled manufacturing environment.
Laser stability improved by 40%, customer achieved required linewidth specifications, became preferred precision supplier.
Project Gallery
Why Choose PiPrecision
- Drawing-Reviewed Precision: Tolerance capability to ±0.005mm is available, subject to drawing review, material, geometry, and inspection requirements.
- Optical Material Specialists: We understand the unique challenges of Invar, optical aluminum, and low-expansion alloys. Proper machining prevents warping and stress.
- Surface Finish Excellence: Optical components demand pristine surfaces. We achieve finishes ready for coating or polishing without additional processing.
- Clean Handling Protocols: Contamination is the enemy of optical performance. Our handling protocols protect your components from particulates and oils.
- Metrology You Can Trust: We measure what we make—with NIST-traceable equipment and documented uncertainty analysis. Your specs, verified.
Lead Times
| Prototype | 2 weeks |
| Production | Confirmed after RFQ review |
| Expedite | 1 week |