Let us show you how much you can save
Provide your part numbers and required quantities for catalog lenses or lens elements.
We develop the required documentation including tolerances, acceptance protocols and quality control process.
Leveraging a supplier network built during decades of optical product design, we’ll provide a quote for your required volume.
Recent Updates
How can custom optics save money?
Catalog optics companies, include substantial price market ups for all their lenses. In many cases this can be 2-3 times what the price of a custom lens would be. At what volume these savings can be found depends on the lens type, for a glass spherical lens you could be saving money 40% in volumes… Continue Reading
Optical coating definitions and standards
According ISO 10110 standard optical coatings is divided on two types: protective coatings and functional coatings. Protective coatings are coated on optical elements when safety of optical surfaces and functional coatings is needed. For example, if using of optical device in aggressive environment is planned. Functional coatings are coated on optical elements to provide necessary… Continue Reading
How long does it take to produce optics?
Injection Molding
Generally 8- 24 weeks for mold ( tool) making. Imaging optics require more precision due to surface finish and other tolerances. “Soft tools” which have a shorter life time can be quicker to make ( 2-4 weeks.)
Lens Grinding
6-12 weeks is average, faster ‘rush’ service is possible in certain cases for a premium price
3D printing
A few hours, but only usable for illumination light pipes and niche applications
Machined and hand polishing plastic
1- 2 weeks, useful for prototype volume illumination optics
Extrusions
3-4 weeks for tool making
Optics Manufacturing Terms
Types of materials
- Glass types: Ohara, Schott, CDHM are common. Depending on the application and vendor preference alternatives can be used
- Plastic: PMMA, Plastic
- Lens holders: plastic, aluminum, titanium
- Crystal: most often used in laser applications
Types of production processes:
- Grinding and polishing glass
- Injection molding plastic
- Injection molding glass
- Diamond turning plastic
- 3D printing
Types of applications
- Non-imaging and illumination ( generally lower tolerances)
- imaging optics ( highest tolerances)