Let Istar help you get started on your project with our experience and know-how!
Upload your design files and production requirements and we will get back to you within 30 minutes!
Glass CNC Milling Service
Glass CNC milling is a high-tech process that uses computer-controlled machines to cut, shape, and polish glass with amazing precision. At Istar Machining, we use special diamond-coated tools that can work with glass without breaking it. Our machines can make very tiny cuts and shapes that would be impossible to do by hand!
Glass CNC milling is perfect when you need glass parts that are exactly the right size and shape. Our machines can work to within ±0.001″ (that’s thinner than a human hair!) to make sure every piece meets your needs.
Get a New Quote
Supports uploading of the following file formats: .STEP .STP .SLDPRT .STL .IPT .3MF .3DXML .PRT .SAT .DXF .X_T .X_B .JT .CATPART
- All uploads are secure and confidential.
20+ Years
Istar Machining's years in the industry
300,000 square feet
The size of Istar Machining's factory
300 CNC machines
Our CNC equipment count
1000 skilled workers
Istar's number of skilled machinists/operators
Materials We Work With
We can mill many different types of glass:
- Borofloat® 33 – Great for scientific equipment
- Zerodur® – Perfect for parts that shouldn’t change size when heated
- Fused silica – Ultra-pure glass for special projects
- Gorilla Glass® – Super strong glass for phones and tablets
- Optical glass – For lenses and mirrors
- Tempered glass – Extra strength for safety
Our Glass CNC Milling Capabilities
Istar Machining uses 5-axis CNC Machining technology that can move in five different directions at once. This lets us make complex 3D shapes that other companies can’t match.
Feature | Our Capability | What This Means For You |
Precision | ±0.001″ (±0.025mm) | Your parts fit perfectly every time |
Surface Finish | Ra 0.1µm | Glass parts that are smooth and clear |
Thickness Range | 0.3mm to 50mm | From very thin to very thick glass |
Hole Diameter | Down to 0.1mm | Tiny holes for micro-fluidic devices |
Lead Time | 10 days | Get your parts faster |
Quality Control | 100% inspection | Every part meets your standards |
Our CNC milling service uses coolant-free processing to prevent thermal stress on your glass parts. This special technique keeps the glass from cracking during milling.
Industries We Serve
Medical Industry
We make glass parts for medical devices like:
- Microfluidic chips for lab testing
- Surgical tool parts that doctors can see through
- Special glass for medical imaging equipment
Our medical CNC machining team understands the strict rules for medical parts.
Aerospace
For the aerospace industry, we make:
- Sensor housings that protect delicate equipment
- Display screens for cockpits
- Special glass parts that can handle extreme temperatures
All our aerospace parts meet AS9100 standards. Our 5-axis machining is perfect for complex aerospace parts.
Electronics
We help electronics companies with:
- Smartphone screens that are thin but strong
- Special masks for making computer chips
- Glass parts for cameras and sensors
Energy Sector
For energy companies, we make:
- Glass parts for solar panels
- Special optics for laser systems
- Protective covers for monitoring equipment
Our Process
- Design Review: We look at your designs and suggest any changes that might make your glass parts work better.
- Material Selection: We help you pick the right type of glass for your project.
- CNC Programming: Our experts use Mastercam software to plan the perfect cutting path.
- Vacuum Workholding: We use special vacuum systems to hold your glass safely during cutting.
- Diamond Tool Milling: Our diamond-coated tools cut your glass with amazing precision.
- Quality Check: We inspect every part to make sure it meets your exact needs.
- Finishing: If needed, we can polish, etch, or add other finishing touches.
Special Features of Our Glass CNC Milling
Ultra-Thin Machining
Using our vacuum workholding system, we can safely work with glass as thin as 0.3mm. This is perfect for making screens for wearable technology or flexible circuits.
Micro-Drilling
We can drill holes smaller than 0.1mm in diameter. These tiny holes are perfect for lab-on-a-chip devices and other scientific equipment.
3D Contouring
Our 3D CNC milling machines can create complex curved surfaces in glass. This is great for custom art projects, museum displays, or special optical components.
Edge Polishing
After cutting, we can polish the edges of your glass parts to remove any sharp edges and give them a beautiful finish.
Why Choose Istar Machining for Glass CNC Milling?
Experience and Expertise
With over 20 years working with brittle materials, our team knows exactly how to handle glass safely and precisely.
Advanced Equipment
Our 5-axis CNC machines with diamond-coated tools are specially designed for glass work.
Quality Assurance
We have ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications, and we check every part with optical measuring equipment.
Fast Turnaround
We can deliver prototype parts in just 10 days, and we offer discounts for larger orders.
Technical Support
Our engineers can help you design your glass parts to be easier and cheaper to make.
Common Applications for Glass CNC Milled Parts
Glass parts made with CNC milling are used in many products:
- Medical Devices: Microfluidic chips that help test blood samples
- Scientific Equipment: Special glass parts for microscopes and lab equipment
- Consumer Electronics: Screens for smartphones and tablets
- Aerospace: Special windows and sensor covers for aircraft and satellites
- Architectural: Custom glass panels for buildings and art installations
- Automotive: Special glass parts for car displays and lighting
Get Started with Istar Machining
Ready to turn your glass ideas into reality? Our team at Istar Machining is here to help!
- Send us your design files
- Get a free quote
- Work with our experts to refine your design
- Receive your perfectly milled glass parts
Contact us today to learn more about our glass CNC machining services or to request a quote for your project.
Istar Machining – Where Precision Meets Perfection in Glass CNC Milling!
Frequently Asked Question
Yes! Our vacuum workholding system lets us safely mill glass as thin as 0.3mm without breaking it.
We can drill holes as small as 0.1mm in diameter using special micro-drilling techniques.
Yes, we offer services like hydrofluoric acid etching and optical polishing to give your glass parts the perfect finish.
We accept STEP, IGES, and SolidWorks files. Our team can also help convert other file types if needed.
We can deliver prototype parts in as little as 10 days. Larger orders may take longer, but we always work to meet your timeline.
