Laser optics. Microscope precision. Telescope hardware.

Invar 36 has near-zero thermal expansion (1.2 ppm/°C). When ambient temperature changes 10 °C, a 1m aluminum optical bench shifts 230 µm — enough to misalign precision optics. Same Invar bench shifts only 12 µm — within acceptable range for most precision optics. For stable optical alignment without active compensation, Invar is the material of choice. Trade-off: Invar is 5-8× aluminum cost and harder to machine.

Mounting surfaces (where optic sits): ±0.005 mm flatness critical for beam pointing accuracy. Adjustment mechanism screws: precision thread and repeatable motion. Reference datum surfaces: ±0.002 mm possible for kinematic mounts. Location of through-holes (for screws, dowel pins): ±0.01 mm. All CMM-verified. For highest-precision optics, individual component matching and documented measurement reports.

Black Type II anodize absorbs >95% of visible light at grazing angles — reduces stray light in optical systems. Standard for telescope interiors, laser cavity internals, spectrometer interiors. For ultimate blackness (99%+ absorption), specialty treatments like Acktar or Vantablack coatings available through partners. Standard Type II anodize adequate for most optical applications.

Kinematic mounts (Maxwell 3-groove or 3-V-groove): exact constraint of 6 DOF without over-constraint. Mount removal and replacement returns optic to same position within 10 µm. Used for interchangeable optics, quick-swap applications. Threaded mounts: simpler, cheaper, good enough for fixed installations. For research-grade interchangeable optics: kinematic. For production fixed optics: threaded.

Astronomical mirror cells require: back surface flat (for mirror support), radial arms designed for specific thermal/mechanical performance, whiffle-tree support geometry for mirrors over 400 mm. Complex 5-axis work. We build mirror cells from prototype through production for amateur telescope makers and research observatories. Typical materials: 6061 aluminum (amateur), Invar (critical research).

Standard optical mounts in aluminum: 7-14 days. Invar 36 optical hardware: 4-6 weeks (material + machining). Custom kinematic mounts: 2-3 weeks. Complete optical bench assemblies: 6-10 weeks. For research projects with specific conference or publication deadlines, rush service possible.