Optical Communication Housing CNC Machining
CHX Metal machines metal housings for optical modules, TO-Can packages, transceivers and silicon photonics assemblies. We work from 2D drawings or 3D models and quote within 24 hours. CHX Metal runs 220 CNC machines in Shenzhen, including Swiss-type lathes and 5-axis machining centres.
Materials
- Kovar 4J29 (expansion matched to glass and ceramic seals, for hermetic packages)
- 6061-T6 and 7075-T6 aluminum (non-hermetic housings, lightweight structures)
- 316L stainless steel (corrosion resistance, medical and industrial optics)
- Oxygen-free copper and tungsten-copper for thermal management inserts
Tolerances and Processes
- General tolerance +/-0.005 mm, critical bores and seal faces to +/-0.005 mm
- CNC milling, turning, wire EDM for narrow slots, and precision surface grinding
- Seal face flatness controlled with CMM and optical flat inspection
- Helium mass spectrometry leak testing, X-ray inspection and infrared imaging on request
- Finishes: electroless nickel plating, gold plating, Type II and Type III anodizing, bead blasting
- Cleaning and packaging suitable for optoelectronic assembly lines
Typical Applications
- Optical transceiver and optical module housings
- TO-Can and butterfly package bodies
- Silicon photonics and photonic integrated circuit packages
- RF and microwave filter cavities
- Laser diode and photodetector mounts
- Fiber optic alignment fixtures and submounts
Quality and Documentation
CHX Metal operates under ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001 management systems. Every order can ship with material certificates, dimensional inspection reports and CMM data. First article inspection reports are provided for new part numbers.
Lead Time
- Samples: about 7 days after drawing review
- Small batch (100 to 1,000 pieces): 10 to 15 days
- Repeat production orders: scheduled per rolling forecast
Request a Quote
Send your drawings or 3D models to mc@chxmetal.com or call +86 18138850989. We reply with a quotation and a design for manufacturability review within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What precision can you achieve for optical housings? Housing tolerances down to ±0.005mm, with surface roughness machined to your drawing specifications.
Which materials do you use for optical housings? Primarily aluminum (6061/7075) and stainless steel, balancing thermal dissipation and structural strength.
Can you handle small batches? Yes. We accept orders from 1 prototype piece; sample lead time is typically 3-7 days.