Optical Components News

At Sterling Precision Optics, we specialize in the manufacture of high-performance cylinder optics that deliver unmatched precision and reliability for a wide range of demanding optical applications. With our advanced fabrication capabilities and decades of experience, we produce cylindrical lenses tailored to exacting customer specifications, ensuring superior performance in both standard and custom systems.

What Are Cylinder Optics?

Cylinder optics are optical components that feature curvature along a single axis, enabling them to focus or expand light into a line rather than a point. Unlike spherical lenses, which curve in two dimensions, cylindrical lenses are engineered for one-dimensional manipulation of light—making them ideal for shaping laser beams, correcting astigmatism, and enhancing imaging systems.

Sterling Precision manufactures a full range of cylinder optics, including:

• Plano-convex cylindrical lenses
• Plano-concave cylindrical lenses
• Double-convex and double-concave variants

These components play critical roles in:

• Laser line generation
• Optical scanning systems
• Spectroscopy
• Medical instrumentation
• Vision correction and ophthalmology

Precision Manufacturing: Our Process

Sterling Precision sets itself apart through a meticulous, vertically integrated manufacturing process designed for both prototyping and volume production.

1. Material Expertise

We work with a wide variety of high-grade materials suited to different spectral ranges and thermal environments, including:

• Fused Silica and BK7 for visible and UV optics
• Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) and Germanium for infrared applications
• Optical polymers for lightweight or disposable systems

2. Cylindrical Surface Generation

Our team uses computer-controlled cylindrical grinding machines to shape the lens precisely along one axis. Every piece is aligned with tight angular tolerances to ensure optimal axis orientation.

3. Fine Grinding and Polishing

We apply specialized sub-aperture polishing techniques using tools contoured to match the cylindrical surface. These processes refine the lens to meet the highest specifications in surface accuracy and optical clarity.

4. Advanced Metrology

Quality control is central to our reputation. Sterling Precision uses state-of-the-art metrology tools such as:

• Interferometers with custom cylindrical null optics
• Profilometers for accurate curvature mapping
• High-resolution optical inspection systems

This ensures each optic meets strict tolerances in curvature, centering, and surface finish.

5. Coatings and Customization

Our in-house coating facilities allow us to apply anti-reflective, high-reflective, and custom thin-film coatings tailored to specific wavelength requirements. Coating uniformity is carefully maintained even across curved geometries.

Applications Across Industries

Sterling Precision’s cylinder optics are trusted by clients in sectors such as:

• Medical diagnostics and imaging
• Laser manufacturing and beam shaping
• Defense and aerospace
• Scientific research
• Industrial inspection systems

Whether you need off-the-shelf components or custom-engineered solutions, our team partners with you to deliver optics that meet your unique requirements.

Why Choose Sterling Precision?

• Decades of Optical Fabrication Experience
• Cutting-Edge Equipment and Metrology
• Custom Design and Engineering Support
• Fast Turnaround Times
• ISO-Certified Quality Control

Partner with a Leader in Cylinder Optics

Sterling Precision Optics combines technical excellence with responsive customer service to deliver high-quality cylinder optics that perform reliably in the most demanding applications. Let us help you bring your optical system to life with components built to your exact specifications.

Contact us today to request a quote or discuss your next precision optics project.