Table of Contents
- Materials for Optical Components
- Optical Applications
- Key Machining Requirements
- Material Comparison Table
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Start Your Optical Parts Project
Optical systems â from medical endoscopes to industrial laser equipment â depend on precisely machined components that maintain alignment at sub-micron levels. A lens housing off by just 0.01mm can degrade image quality. A mirror mount with thermal expansion mismatch can drift an entire system out of calibration.
At ZSCNC Mach, we bring over a decade of experience machining optical-grade components for European and American clients, delivering parts that meet the most demanding surface finish and dimensional requirements.
Materials for Optical CNC Machining
| Material | Surface Finish | Dimensional Stability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum 7075-T6 | Excellent (Ra 0.4um) | Very good | Lens housings, mirror mounts, optical benches |
| Aluminum 6061-T6 | Good (Ra 0.8um) | Good | General optical frames, brackets |
| Brass C36000 | Excellent (Ra 0.2um) | Good | Precision bushings, adjustment rings |
| Stainless Steel 304/316L | Very Good (Ra 0.4um) | Excellent | Laser mounts, critical alignment parts |
| POM (Acetal) | Good (Ra 0.8um) | Good | Prototype housings, insulators |
Optical Applications We Serve
Lens Housings and Barrel Assemblies
Precision-machined aluminum or brass barrels hold lenses in exact optical alignment. Thread pitch accuracy and concentricity are critical â we hold concentricity to 0.01mm TIR.
Mirror Mounts and Optical Bench Components
Kinematic mounts require precise 90 degree angles, flat reference surfaces, and tapped holes for adjustment screws. Our 5-axis CNC centers machine complex geometries in a single setup.
Endoscope Components
Medical endoscopes use tiny, intricate parts machined from stainless steel. These require micro-machining capabilities with tolerances down to +/-0.005mm.
Laser System Parts
Industrial laser cutting and marking systems need water-cooled housings, beam delivery components, and focusing assemblies â typically machined from aluminum with precision coolant channels.
Key Machining Requirements
- Surface finish: Ra 0.2-0.8um for optical contact surfaces
- Concentricity: 0.01mm TIR or better for lens barrels
- Thread class: 2A/3A precision threads for adjustment mechanisms
- Burr-free: Every edge deburred and inspected under magnification
- Cleanliness: Oil-free, dust-free packaging for optical applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What surface finish can you achieve on aluminum optical parts?
A: We achieve Ra 0.4um as standard and Ra 0.2um with special tooling and passes.
Q: Can you machine acrylic without cracking?
A: Yes. Acrylic requires sharp tooling, proper feeds/speeds, and cooling to prevent stress cracking.
Q: What is your lead time for optical prototype parts?
A: Standard lead time is 5-7 business days. Expedited service (2-3 days) is available on request.
Start Your Optical Parts Project
Upload your design files and receive a quote within 24 hours. No minimum order quantity.