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Glass Materials

Precision glass and glass-ceramic materials including Zerodur, ULE, fused quartz, and sapphire for high-stability and optical applications, with precision machining support.

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Overview

Glass and glass-ceramic materials are widely used in applications where dimensional stability, optical performance, and thermal resistance are critical. Materials such as Zerodur, ULE, fused quartz, and sapphire are commonly selected for precision systems operating under demanding conditions.

In many cases, the challenge is not only material selection, but also the ability to machine these materials into high-precision components.We offer machining services for a wide range of engineering glass materials, focusing on producing parts that meet stringent tolerances and specific application requirements.

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Ceramics Machinable ceramics Glass

Interactive Materials Chart

Not sure which ceramic material is right for your application? Learn more about technical ceramics, check out our ceramic materials comparison chart, or contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help out.

Machining of glass materials

Services

We work with precision glass materials including Zerodur, ULE, quartz, and sapphire, supporting the machining of high-precision components for demanding applications.

  • Flexible, customizable components
  • Curved irregular,shape
  • Polishing and coating

FAQS

Which glass material has the lowest thermal expansion?
For ultra-low thermal expansion applications, Zerodur and ULE are the most commonly used materials. Both offer near-zero CTE, making them suitable for precision optical systems and environments with strict temperature stability requirements.
Do you support lightweighting or weight-reduction machining?
Yes. Lightweight structures such as pockets, ribs, and hollowed designs can be machined to reduce weight while maintaining structural stability. The feasibility depends on material type, thickness, and mechanical requirements.
What surface roughness can be achieved?
Surface roughness depends on material and process. For most glass components, Ra 0.01 μm is achievable, while optical-grade polishing can reach Ra 0.002 μm or better for high-precision applications.
Can these materials be coated?
Yes. Materials like Fused Quartz, Zerodur, and Sapphire are compatible with various coatings, including anti-reflective (AR), reflective, and protective coatings, depending on the application.
What design considerations are important when machining glass?
When designing glass components, factors such as edge geometry, minimum wall thickness, hole size, and stress concentration should be considered. Proper design helps reduce the risk of chipping or cracking during machining.

Macor is a machinable glass-ceramic made from fluorophlogopite mica crystals embedded in a borosilicate glass matrix. This composition gives it a rare
combination of metal-like machinability, excellent electrical insulation, low thermal conductivity, and stability up to 1000°C (no load) while maintaining very tight tolerances.

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