CNC Glass Machining

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are quickly gaining traction as indispensable tools for machining optical components with complex geometries. They are computer controlled electro-mechanical devices programmed with a machining language called “G-code,” and have numerous benefits over operator-required conventional machining. CNC machines offer the highest amount of precision, flexibility, and repeatability when it comes to fabricating components beyond basic shapes. CNC machining has been used for manufacturing metal and plastic parts for decades but is now pushing the boundaries of manufacturing glass and other optical materials. In addition to optical glass, CNC machining can be used to machine a wide range of demanding materials including ceramics, corundum, tungsten carbide, and even composites. Some of these advanced materials, such as Tungsten Carbide and composites, cannot be machined using conventional machining.

Disadvantages of CNC Glass Machining

The main disadvantage of CNC glass machining is that the upfront cost of purchasing CNC machines is higher than that of conventional machines. More expensive equipment leads to higher prices for customers, but CNC glass machining can create intricate features with far more precision and repeatability than conventional equipment. CNC glass machining isn’t a cost effective method for making simple optics like spherical lenses and right angle prisms, but it is the ideal method for manufacturing components with complex geometries.