Stainless Steel Milled Parts with Vibratory Finishing for Optical Instruments

If you work with optical instruments, you already know that even the smallest imperfection in a component can affect performance. We combine the precision of CNC milling with the smooth surface quality of vibratory finishing ensures parts that not only meet exact tolerances but also look flawless and perform reliably.

CNC Milling for Precision and Repeatability in Optics Industry

In the optics sector, accuracy is crucial. CNC milling delivers exceptional dimensional precision, often within a few microns, ensuring components fit seamlessly into delicate assemblies. The repeatability of CNC processes allows manufacturers like us to produce identical parts across batches, maintaining consistency in optical alignment and performance.

Our Milling Parts Tolerance Requirements for Optical Instruments

Optical instrument parts often demand micrometre-level accuracy to ensure correct alignment and fit. Chiheng’s precision CNC milling capabilities consistently hold these tolerances:

• General structural parts: ±0.005 mm
• Critical optical seating areas: ±0.01 mm
• Threaded and fitting sections: ISO metric tolerance classes as per customer spec

Common Stainless Steel Components in Optical Instruments

Stainless steel milled parts can be found in various assemblies within:

• Microscope frames and holders – providing structural stability.
• Camera lens mounts – ensuring alignment and durability.
• Telescope mechanical fittings – for smooth and reliable movement.
• Optical sensor housings – protecting sensitive internal components.

These components require a balance of mechanical strength, precision engineering, and surface quality—qualities that stainless steel and advanced milling techniques deliver reliably.

The Role of Vibratory Finishing in Enhancing Optical Instrument Parts

Vibratory finishing is a key step after CNC milling stainless steel parts for optical instruments. It smooths, polishes and prepares the surface so the components meet the high visual and performance demands of optical devices.

How Vibratory Finishing Works

Parts are placed in a vibratory bowl or trough with abrasive media and compounds. The machine vibrates, causing constant contact between media and parts. This removes sharp edges, burrs and surface imperfections without damaging precision features.

Types of Vibratory Finishes and Their Effects

Benefits for Optical Components

• Improved surface quality – Essential for accurate light paths and minimal distortion.
• Consistent finish – Ensures all parts in an assembly match in appearance and performance.
• Protects precision – Removes imperfections without altering critical dimensions.

Why Vibratory Finishing Stands Out

Compared with hand polishing or blasting, vibratory finishing is:

• Faster and repeatable – Handles high volumes without sacrificing consistency.
• Cost-effective – Low labour costs while delivering high-quality results.
• Gentle on parts – Suitable for delicate optical components where dimensional integrity is critical.

It’s widely chosen in the optics sector because it hits the balance between finish quality, turnaround speed and production cost.

Surface Roughness and Finish Standards

For optical components, the surface needs to be extremely smooth to avoid scattering light or distorting signals. Vibratory finishing plays a big part in reaching these targets.

Typical finish standards for optical stainless steel parts: