CNC Machining for Precision Optical Components

Get precision CNC machining for optical components where alignment, concentricity, surface integrity, and repeatability directly affect system performance. Criterion Precision Machining produces lens housings, lens mounts, optical fixtures, and alignment-critical optomechanical parts using Swiss turning, CNC turning, 5-axis milling, Wire EDM, and certified inspection built for no-failure applications.

CNC machining precision optical component

Our CNC Machining Services

Integrated machining, finishing, and inspection for tight-tolerance optical and photonics components.

Optics Machining

Machining for lens housings, lens mounts, optical fixtures, and alignment-critical components where dimensional accuracy directly supports optical performance and assembly repeatability.

5-Axis Milling

Advanced 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC milling for complex optomechanical geometries, tight pockets, fine features, and close-tolerance parts in demanding materials.

Swiss Turning

High-repeatability Swiss turning for small-diameter optical components, micro-features, pins, mounts, and intricate cylindrical parts requiring tight tolerance control.

CNC Turning

Multi-axis CNC turning for cylindrical optical parts, housings, sleeves, and precision features where smooth finishes and reduced setup variation matter.

Wire EDM

Wire EDM for sharp internal corners, narrow slots, thin-wall features, and alignment-critical contours that are difficult to machine conventionally.

Quality Inspection

Certified inspection using CMM, OASIS optical inspection, and Keyence systems, with FAIR, Certificates of Conformance, and material traceability available.

Machinist inspecting precision optical component

Our Optical Machining Process

Engineering Review and Planning

Our team reviews drawings, CAD data, materials, tolerances, optical alignment requirements, and documentation needs. This early evaluation identifies manufacturing risks, inspection strategy, and the most efficient path for prototype or production-intent machining.

Process Design and Programming

Precision Machining and Finishing

Certified Inspection and Verification

Documentation and Production Release

The Criterion Difference

Why Choose Criterion Precision Machining?

Criterion combines advanced equipment, certified quality, and deep experience in precision optical machining.

Tight Tolerances

Optical components are machined with tolerances down to ±0.0002 inches where achievable.

Certified Quality

ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 systems support documented, repeatable manufacturing quality.

Integrated Production

Milling, turning, Swiss machining, EDM, finishing, marking, and inspection stay in-house.

No-Failure Focus

Built for photonics, aerospace, defense, and medical sectors where component failure is unacceptable.

Meet The Criterion Team

Experienced leadership supporting mission-critical precision machining programs.

Professional headshot of Tanya DiSalvo, President

Tanya DiSalvo

President

As third-generation owner and President of Criterion Precision Machining, Tanya DiSalvo leads our commitment to delivering mission-critical components for Texas railroad infrastructure. Under her leadership, Criterion has evolved into a woman-owned precision machining company specializing in the 'No Failure' sectors, including railroad safety systems. Tanya's vision has guided the company's investment in advanced CNC technology and ISO certification programs, ensuring our Texas railroad clients receive components that meet the most stringent safety and performance standards. Her dedication to quality excellence and operational efficiency has positioned Criterion as a trusted partner for railroad manufacturers requiring precision components that perform reliably across Texas's diverse operating environments, from Gulf Coast humidity to West Texas desert conditions.

Professional headshot of Kelly Marflak, Quality Manager

Kelly Marflak

Quality Manager

Kelly Marflak serves as Quality Manager at Criterion Precision Machining, overseeing our comprehensive quality assurance programs critical to railroad component manufacturing. With deep expertise in precision inspection protocols, Kelly manages our certified Quality Assurance program that includes multiple points of precision inspection built into manufacturing processes. She oversees the operation of our Global Advantage CMM with PC-DMIS software, OASIS Optical Automatic Smart Inspection System, and Keyence measuring systems capable of measuring up to 99 dimensions simultaneously. Kelly's meticulous attention to detail ensures every railroad component meets the exacting tolerances and safety standards required for Texas railroad applications. Her leadership in quality control processes has been instrumental in maintaining our ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 certifications, providing railroad manufacturers with the documentation and compliance verification essential for safety-critical components operating across Texas's extensive rail network.

Professional headshot of Mike Pinchot, Estimator/Project Manager

Mike Pinchot

Estimator/Project Manager

Mike Pinchot brings extensive project management expertise to Criterion's railroad machining operations as Estimator and Project Manager. With deep understanding of precision manufacturing requirements, Mike works closely with Texas railroad clients to develop accurate project estimates and manage complex machining programs from concept through delivery. His technical expertise enables him to assess challenging railroad component specifications and coordinate multi-axis machining operations, Swiss turning processes, and quality inspection requirements. Mike's project management approach ensures railroad components are delivered on time and within budget while meeting the stringent quality standards required for safety-critical applications. His collaborative work with engineering teams and manufacturing personnel has streamlined processes for producing complex railroad parts, from prototype development through full production runs, ensuring Texas railroad infrastructure receives components manufactured to the highest precision standards.

Professional headshot of David Glass, Chief Financial Officer

David Glass

Chief Financial Officer

David Glass serves as Chief Financial Officer at Criterion Precision Machining, bringing strategic financial leadership to support our continued growth and investment in advanced manufacturing capabilities. With his comprehensive understanding of manufacturing economics and operational efficiency, David ensures that our precision machining operations remain competitive while maintaining the highest quality standards. His financial expertise enables Criterion to make strategic investments in cutting-edge CNC equipment, quality systems, and workforce development that directly benefit our clients in mission-critical industries. David's analytical approach to business management helps optimize our manufacturing processes and resource allocation, ensuring we can deliver exceptional value to customers while maintaining the financial stability necessary for long-term partnerships. His commitment to operational excellence supports our ability to serve the demanding requirements of medical device, aerospace, defense, and photonics manufacturers who rely on our precision machining capabilities.

Kellyanne Gottschalk, Internal Systems Manager at Criterion Precision Machining

Kellyanne Gottschalk

Internal Systems Manager

Kellyanne Gottschalk serves as Internal Systems Manager at Criterion Precision Machining, responsible for managing and optimizing the company's operational and business systems, including the ProShop ERP platform. Her role is critical in ensuring seamless workflow from order intake to final delivery, enabling real-time visibility into production scheduling, quality documentation, and compliance tracking. Kellyanne's expertise in systems management supports Criterion's ability to scale efficiently while maintaining the rigorous documentation and traceability standards required by regulated industries such as medical devices and aerospace. Her work underpins the company's operational excellence and helps ensure every project is delivered on time and in full compliance.

Nilda Feliciano, Customer Service representative at Criterion Precision Machining

Nilda Feliciano

Customer Service

Nilda Feliciano is the Customer Service representative at Criterion Precision Machining, serving as a dedicated point of contact for clients throughout the entire order lifecycle. From initial inquiries to order updates and delivery coordination, Nilda ensures that every client receives responsive, clear, and professional communication. Her commitment to customer satisfaction reflects Criterion's values of reliability and partnership, particularly important for clients in time-sensitive industries like aerospace, defense, and medical devices. Nilda's friendly and knowledgeable approach helps build lasting relationships with customers, ensuring they feel supported and informed at every stage of their project with Criterion.

Bonnie Paletta, Office Administrator at Criterion Precision Machining

Bonnie Paletta

Office Administrator

Bonnie Paletta serves as Office Administrator at Criterion Precision Machining, keeping the day-to-day operations of the business running smoothly. Her organizational skills and attention to detail ensure that administrative processes, documentation, and internal coordination are handled efficiently, freeing up the production and quality teams to focus on delivering precision components. Bonnie is a vital part of the Criterion team, contributing to the company's culture of professionalism and reliability. Her support role touches every department, helping to maintain the high standards of communication and organization that Criterion's clients in medical device, aerospace, and defense industries depend on.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does precision machining work?

Precision machining uses computer-controlled equipment, specialized tooling, and verified inspection plans to remove material from a workpiece to exact dimensions. For optical components, the process often combines CNC milling, turning, Swiss turning, or Wire EDM with tight control of concentricity, parallelism, surface condition, and critical alignment features. Criterion verifies results using CMM, OASIS optical inspection, and Keyence image-dimension systems.

What optical components can be CNC machined?

What tolerances can you hold for optical components?

What materials do you machine for photonics and optics?

Can you support prototype optical component runs?

How are optical components inspected after machining?

Do you provide finishing or secondary operations?

What information is needed to request a quote?

Need Help With Your Specs?

Send your requirements and get guidance from our machining team.

Certified & Trusted

Awards and Recognition

ISO 13485 certification logo

ISO 13485

Medical device quality system certification.

ISO 9001 certification logo

ISO 9001

Certified quality management for precision manufacturing.

WBENC certification logo

WBENC Member

Recognized woman-owned business enterprise membership.

Start Your Optical Machining Project

Share your drawings, tolerances, materials, and production requirements. Our team will review your optical component machining needs and respond with practical next steps.

Contact Us Today

For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 216-267-1733. You can also send us a quick email at office@criteriontool.com.