Research-grade precision. Nanometer alignments.
UHV-compatible 316L vacuum chambers, 5 µm-tolerance optical mounts, PTFE fluidic manifolds, spectrometer housings. From university research labs to national observatories, our parts ship into the world\'s most demanding measurement systems.
Scientific instrumentation
One engineer owns the job from quote to dock: DFM review before cutting, inspection through the run, and an inspection report in the box.
Where our parts ship.
Vacuum chambers
UHV-compatible vacuum chambers to 10^-10 Torr. Polished internal surfaces, conflat flange machining, cryogenic-compatible.
Optical mounts
Kinematic optical mounts, beam splitters, mirror holders. Thermal-stable stress-relieved aluminum with precision adjuster interfaces.
Spectrometer housings
Grating monochromator bodies, cuvette holders, sample cell housings. Light-tight anodized interiors, precision entrance slits.
Fluidic manifolds
HPLC manifolds, microfluidic chip holders, sample handling hardware. Chemically inert PTFE or PEEK bodies.
Microscopy hardware
Precision XY stages, objective mounts, condenser brackets. Nanometer-level positioning features.
Fiber-optic fixtures
Single-mode fiber alignment fixtures, ferrule holders, V-groove mounts. Sub-micron positioning for SMF.
Cryogenic hardware
Liquid helium and liquid nitrogen dewars, cryostat components, thermal straps. Non-magnetic for sensitive measurements.
Laser mounts
Laser head mounts with thermal expansion compensation, Invar bases, aluminum adjusters. Pico-radian stability.
MEMS packaging
MEMS device packages, hermetic seal flanges, feedthrough housings. Low-leak hermetic assembly.
Research-grade precision — questions
What tolerances do scientific instruments typically require?
Depends on the function. Optical mounting and alignment features: ±0.002–0.005 mm (2–5 µm) for single-mode fiber or precision optical systems. Vacuum sealing surfaces: Ra 0.4 µm flatness. Spectrometer slit widths: ±1 µm on slit dimension. Most other instrument housing features: ±0.05 mm is adequate. Critical tolerances tend to be on datum-referenced alignment features.
Can you machine for UHV (ultra-high vacuum) applications?
Yes. UHV-compatible materials: 316L stainless (preferred), OFE copper (C101), 6061 aluminum (specific grade), titanium, Inconel. Machining practices for UHV: avoid lubricants containing sulfur or phosphorus, use water-soluble coolants, avoid tapped blind holes (vent holes required), minimize surface area to reduce outgassing. We can also provide pre-vacuum-baked parts.
Do you work with research universities and national labs?
Yes, a significant fraction of our scientific work comes from research institutions globally. We understand the different procurement processes, payment terms (often post-delivery), and documentation needs of academic and government customers. NDAs and technology transfer agreements signed as needed.
Can you machine optical mirror substrates?
We machine substrates in aluminum, beryllium, fused silica blanks, and zerodur to ±0.01 mm overall dimensions. The optical polishing and coating is performed by specialty optics partners — we provide the precisely-machined blank ready for diamond turning or polishing. We do not have diamond-turning capability in-house for optical-grade surface accuracy.
What about medical and biological research equipment?
Covered by our medical-grade materials (PEEK, 316L, PTFE, titanium) and USP Class VI biocompatible polymers. For cleanroom-handled components, we provide HEPA-filtered cleaning and nylon-wrapped packaging. Fluidic systems with precision flow rates, microfluidic chip manifolds, biosafety cabinet hardware.
How do you handle low-volume research parts?
Our sweet spot for scientific is 1–50 parts per order. Each piece machined with first-article inspection, dimensional verification, and shipped with traceable documentation. For one-of-a-kind research prototypes, we consult on DFM to ensure the part is buildable and affordable within research budgets.
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