The last decade has brought a dramatic increase in the number of parts we electropolish for the laser and photonics industry. They include parts like the aluminum housings, mounts and accessories used in the manufacture of industrial lasers.

A major laser manufacturing company we worked with was searching for a process that would not only provide a contaminant-free part for its products, which are assembled in a clean room, but also a smoother part surface for better sealing properties.

After processing material samples and actual prototypes, a process was developed to provide the surface finish the manufacturer required. When the research and development was completed, (.0006” to .0008”) total material removal was approved and specified with an Able Specification number. The specification number includes the alloy code, type of electrolyte, primary goal and material removal. The company’s R&D engineers determined that electropolishing the parts was critical to the proper functioning of the lasers.