Since 1956, Sterling Precision Optics, Inc. has been a trusted name in the manufacturing of high-quality custom optical lenses. Originally operating out of a storefront in Blue Island, Illinois, Sterling Precision has grown into a premier optical lens manufacturer, now based in Evanston, Illinois. With decades of expertise and a commitment to innovation, we provide a diverse range of precision-crafted lenses for industries requiring the highest level of optical performance.

Comprehensive Lens Manufacturing Capabilities

Sterling Precision manufacturers an extensive array of optical lenses tailored to various applications, ensuring that each lens meets the strictest quality standards. Our advanced manufacturing techniques and tooling capabilities allow us to produce lenses with exceptional accuracy and performance.

We maintain an extensive inventory of materials, including NBK7, Crown Glass, Pyrex, and UV-grade fused silica—some of the most commonly used substrates in optical manufacturing. Our thousands of radius gauges and tooling ensure that we can fabricate lenses quickly, meeting the most demanding requirements.

Types of Custom Optical Lenses We Manufacture

Sterling Precision specializes in a wide range of lens types, each designed for specific applications:

• Spherical Lenses – Used in imaging systems, lasers, and optical instruments, these lenses focus or disperse light efficiently.
• Aspherical Lenses – Designed to reduce aberrations and improve optical performance in high-precision applications such as medical devices and camera systems.
• Cylindrical Lenses – Essential for laser line generation, barcode scanning, and industrial inspection systems.
• Plano-Convex and Plano-Concave Lenses – Used in beam expansion and collimation, these lenses offer versatility across scientific and industrial applications.
• Achromatic Lenses – Corrects chromatic aberration in imaging systems, enhancing clarity and precision.
• Infrared (IR) and Ultraviolet (UV) Lenses – Optimized for specific wavelength applications in aerospace, medical, and defense industries.

High-Precision Optical Manufacturing

Sterling Precision integrates advanced fabrication techniques to ensure high-accuracy lens production, including:

• Precision Grinding & Polishing – Achieves exceptional surface smoothness and exact curvature.
• Diamond Turning – Used for aspheric and freeform optics requiring ultra-precise shaping.
• Optical Coating Deposition – Enhances lens performance with anti-reflective, infrared, and UV-blocking coatings.
• CNC Machining – Ensures precision manufacturing of complex optical components.

Quality Assurance and Testing

Our commitment to superior quality is reflected in our rigorous inspection processes. Each lens undergoes comprehensive testing, including:

• Interferometry – Measures surface accuracy and wavefront distortion.
• Optical Profilometry – Ensures smoothness and precise curvature.
• Spectrophotometry – Evaluates light transmission and coating efficiency.
• Environmental Durability Testing – Assesses lens performance under extreme conditions.

Applications of Sterling Precision Custom Lenses

Our lenses serve a broad spectrum of industries, including:

• Aerospace & Defense – Night vision optics, targeting systems, and surveillance technology.
• Medical & Healthcare – Diagnostic imaging, endoscopes, and surgical laser systems.
• Industrial & Scientific – Spectroscopy, microscopy, and laser processing applications.
• Consumer Electronics – Camera lenses, VR/AR devices, and display technologies.
• Automotive & Transportation – Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and LiDAR sensors.
• Telecommunications – Fiber optics and high-speed communication networks.

Why Choose Sterling Precision Optics?

With over 65 years of experience in optical lens manufacturing, Sterling Precision Optics brings unmatched expertise to the industry. Our extensive inventory of materials and tooling ensures quick turnaround times and the ability to provide custom solutions tailored to our clients' needs. We maintain the highest quality standards through precision manufacturing and strict quality control processes, ensuring that every lens meets exacting specifications. Whether you require specialized optical designs for unique applications or need a reliable partner for high-performance lenses, Sterling Precision Optics delivers unparalleled precision and reliability.

Sterling Precision Optics continues to be at the forefront of optical innovation, delivering superior lenses for the most demanding applications. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your custom optical lens requirements.