What custom optical components do you manufacture?
Criterion manufactures optomechanical and optical-system components such as lens housings, lens mounts, fixtures, alignment-critical parts, and related components for photonics, aerospace, defense, and medical applications. Work can include tight pockets, cylindrical features, micro-details, internal corners, and precision mounting surfaces that influence alignment, stability, and optical performance.
What tolerances can you hold for optical components?
Across relevant machining work, Criterion can hold tolerances down to ±0.0002 inches when the part geometry, material, and inspection plan support that requirement. The team reviews drawings, GD&T, datum structure, feature relationships, and production volume before confirming achievable tolerances, especially on alignment-critical optical mounts and housing assemblies.
Which materials can be used for optical component machining?
Criterion works with materials commonly used in optomechanical assemblies, including titanium, stainless steels, aluminum, specialty plastics, alloys, and selected exotic materials. Material selection affects machinability, stability, surface finish, and inspection strategy, so the team evaluates the application requirements and drawing notes before recommending the most reliable production approach.
Can you support optical component prototypes before production?
Yes. Criterion supports production-intent prototyping rather than hobbyist or single-sample prototyping. Prototype runs are produced on production-capable equipment and inspected with the same metrology systems used for final production. When the prototype is approved, the program can move into higher-volume manufacturing with reduced reprogramming and requalification risk.
How do you verify optical component quality?
Quality is built into multiple stages: incoming material verification, First Article Inspection, in-process inspection, and final inspection. Criterion uses Global Advantage CMM equipment with PC-DMIS, OASIS non-contact optical inspection, and Keyence image-dimension systems to verify dimensional and form requirements for precision optical and photonics components.
Do you provide inspection reports and traceability documentation?
Criterion provides documentation packages for regulated and mission-critical programs, including Certificates of Conformance, First Article Inspection Reports, and material traceability records. Documentation is supported by certified quality systems, ProShop ERP, and in-house inspection. This helps OEM buyers maintain revision control, supplier accountability, and compliance evidence throughout production.
What machining processes are used for custom optical components?
Criterion combines 5-axis CNC milling, CNC turning, Swiss turning, Wire EDM, mass finishing, laser marking, and precision inspection. This integrated capability allows complex optical components to stay within one controlled quality system, reducing outside-vendor handoffs and helping maintain chain of custody for regulated or alignment-sensitive parts.
How do I request a quote for custom optical components?
To request a quote, provide drawings, 3D models if available, material specifications, tolerances, annual or lot volumes, finish requirements, marking needs, and documentation expectations. Criterion’s estimating and engineering teams review manufacturability, inspection requirements, and the best CNC, Swiss, EDM, or finishing route before responding with next steps.