15 Diffraction Grating Manufacturers in 2024
This section provides an overview for diffraction grating as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 15 diffraction grating manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked diffraction grating companies as of November, 2024: 1.Access Laser Company, 2.OPCO Laboratory, Inc., 3.Plymouth Grating Laboratory.
Table of Contents
Graduated from Kyoto University, Faculty of Science, Graduate School of Science, Master (Chemistry). Joined a major general chemical manufacturer listed on the First section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange in April 2013. Engaged in analysis and scale-up of new functional polymers. Moved to another major manufacturer since May 2021. Specializes in analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, polymer chemistry, and polymer molding and processing.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuta-ishino-1bb143229/
Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University (Master of Science)
As a display engineer, engaged in Seiko Epson Corporation, Sony Corporation, Japan Display Corporation, etc.
https://researchmap.jp/tanakachihiro
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chihiro-tanaka/
What Is a Diffraction Grating?
A diffraction grating is an optical element fabricated on a glass substrate with finely spaced grooves at equal intervals. When light is irradiated onto a diffraction grating, the effect of the grooves causes a diffraction of light, which allows the incident light to be divided according to its wavelength. Types include transmissive, reflective, and brazed types. Each has a slightly different structure, and therefore, different spectral performance.
Since diffraction gratings can extract light of a certain wavelength, they are used in monochromators, which emit light of a single wavelength, and polychromators, which emit light of a fixed wavelength range.
Uses of Diffraction Gratings
Diffraction gratings have fine grooves on their surfaces, and they have the property of dividing incident light spectrally into different wavelengths. The gratings are used in devices that use this property to control the wavelength of light.
For example, they are used in monochromators that emit light at a single wavelength and polychromators that emit light at a fixed wavelength. They are also used in spectrophotometers for astronomical observations, various spectroscopic analyzers in the natural sciences, and manufacturing and quality control equipment for pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
Principle of Diffraction Gratings
Diffraction gratings are made by vapor-depositing a metal such as aluminum on a glass substrate and engraving a large number of parallel lines (15,000 to 30,000 for UV to visible light and 1,500 to 2,500 for infrared light). These grooves scatter the incident light, resulting in interference fringes. As a result, the incident light can be spectrally split according to wavelength.
Compared to prisms, diffraction gratings are used in many spectrometers because of their superior light resolution and equal dispersion at all wavelengths. Prisms are made from optical glass and disperse light using different refractive indices for each wavelength of light. Diffraction gratings use the fact that the diffraction direction of the incident light diffracts in different directions, depending on the wavelength of the light to disperse it.
The basic principle of diffraction gratings is illustrated in the figure below. Diffraction gratings use the diffraction phenomenon of light. Light incident on a microscopic slit S0 diffracts in various directions, with S0 as the wave source. Diffraction gratings have grooves or other structures (S1, S2, ..., G1, G2, ...) corresponding to these slits, or G1, G2,...) at equal intervals (in a grating). Light emitted or reflected from the grooves causes interference. The light emitted or reflected from the grooves causes interference. Interfering light in the angular direction of the emitted or reflected angle such that the optical path difference between adjacent grooves is an even multiple of a half wavelength (an integer multiple of the wavelength) strengthens each other while interfering light in the angular direction such that the optical path difference is an odd multiple of a half wavelength (a half integer multiple of the wavelength) weakens each other. Using this principle, light can be divided into wavelengths and extracted.
There are two types of diffraction gratings: original and replica. Original gratings are difficult and expensive to fabricate because they must be especially precise. Replica gratings can be manufactured in large numbers from original gratings and are therefore inexpensive and widely used.
Types of Diffraction Gratings and Points to Note
There are two main types of diffraction gratings. One transmits light and the other reflects light. Transmission gratings, which transmit light, are not often used because they require transparency over a wide range of wavelengths, but they are often used in educational settings as simple demonstrations of natural light spectroscopy, for example. Reflective gratings, another type of diffraction gratings, are gratings engraved on a metal surface, and these gratings are mainly used in spectrophotometers that require high accuracy.
When handling diffraction gratings, care must be taken to prevent dirt from adhering to it. For example, handling the grating with bare hands may cause components such as sebum to adhere to the grating and degrade its performance. In addition, in an environment prone to condensation, water may adhere to the diffraction gratings and degrade its optical characteristics. In addition, when handling intense light such as laser light, it is necessary to check the diffraction behavior in advance and understand the direction in which the light is flying so that it does not irradiate people.
List of 15 Diffraction Grating Manufacturers
*Including some distributors, etc.
Sort by Features
- Default
- Company Size: largest first
- Year Founded: oldest first
- Year Founded: earliest first
Sort by Area
- United States of America
- China
- Japan
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Thorlabs, Inc
Diffraction Gratings
Manufacturer Overview
Thorlabs, Inc, established in Newton, NJ in 1989, is a manufacturer of photonics equipment for research, manufacturing, and biomedical applications. Their product portfolio includes optical components, for use in imaging, sensing, and spectroscopy applications, spectrometers and analyzers used for research and industrial applications, fiber optic components and photomultiplier tubes, and imaging devices that capture and measure light signals for diverse applications in scientific research. The company has sales offices in the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, China, and Brazil.
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Access Laser Company
Diffraction Grating
Manufacturer Overview
Access Laser Company, established in 1999, is a manufacturer specializing in advanced laser technology solutions. Headquartered in the United States, the company caters primarily to industries such as Aerospace, Electronics, Medical Devices, and Research & Development. Its product range includes precision laser sources, laser modules, and custom laser systems. The company's laser technology finds applications requiring high precision and accuracy, including laser spectroscopy, material processing, and scientific research. Its work on delivering cutting-edge laser solutions and technical excellence has made them capable of working with customers that seek and research institutions looking for precise laser technology.
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OPCO Laboratory, Inc.
Diffraction Gratings
Manufacturer Overview
OPCO Laboratory, Inc., established in Fitchburg, Massachusetts in 1976 is a manufacturer of optical solutions that are used in scientific and industrial applications. Their product portfolio includes Ruled Diffraction Gratings, Beamsplitters, Lenses/Domes, Precision Mirrors and Windows, and prisms. The company's products are used in industries including Life Sciences, Analytical, Spectroscopy, Defense, Aerospace, and Semiconductors. The company's team includes scientists, engineers, and technicians and they provide customized services and for product design and manufacturing.
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Plymouth Grating Laboratory
Diffraction Efficiency
Manufacturer Overview
Plymouth Grating Laboratory, established in 2004 and based in Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA is a manufacturer of diffraction gratings. The company specializes in superior quality diffraction efficiency and laser damage threshold. The company offers multilayer dielectric, hybrid and gold gratings, two-dimensional gratings and higher energy laser and spectral beam grafting. Founded by Douglas Smith, the company manufactures these products using the Nanoruler, based on the proprietary Scanning Beam Interference Lithography technology developed at MIT.
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FindLight
Diffraction Gratings
Company Overview
FindLight, located in Berkeley, California, United States, is an online marketplace for the photonics industry, connecting buyers and sellers of photonics products on a single platform, was founded in 2013. The company's platform is organized into a hierarchy of product categories, including lasers, optics, optomechanics, light detection systems, and other photonics products. They aim to simplify the shopping process in the photonics industry by seamlessly connecting sellers and buyers on one easy-to-use platform. They were founded after an extensive customer discovery process conducted in the frameworks of NSF I-Corp Entrepreneurship Program at UC Berkeley.
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Newport Corporation
Diffraction Gratings
Company Overview
Newport is a division of MKS Instruments, Inc. that was incorporated in 1961 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts. The company is a manufacturing company that serves the specialty industrial, advanced electronics, and semiconductor industries. The company markets its products through Spectra-Physics, MKS Instruments, Richardson Grating, and other brands. Their product categories include motion, optomechanics, optics, and vacuum instruments. Product categories include lasers, MKS vacuum & gas solutions, laser diode controls, and tables & isolation systems.
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SEIKOH GIKEN Co., Ltd.
DOE(Diffractive Optical Element)
Manufacturer Overview
SEIKOH GIKEN Co., Ltd., a company founded on June 7, 1972, and headquartered in Chiba, Japan, is a manufacturer and supplier of optical components and equipment. The company specializes in the development and production of fiber optic connectors, fusion splicers, and related products for the telecommunications and data communication industries. Their products are used for fiber optic connections in various applications, including telecommunication networks, data centers, and optical sensing systems. The company also offers customer services including prompt and responsive communication to address inquiries and technical assistance.
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Manufacturer Overview
HORIBA RADIO LABORATORY was established in Japan in 1945 and has spent the last three-quarters of a century growing as an R&D company and engaged in international operations. HORIBA Scientific offers 200 years of experience developing high-performance scientific instruments and analytical solutions. The HORIBA Group of worldwide companies provides an extensive array of instruments and systems for applications ranging from automotive R&D, process and environmental monitoring, in-vitro medical diagnostics, semiconductor manufacturing, and metrology to a broad range of scientific R&D and QC measurements. Operating in Asia, Europe, and North and South America, HORIBA scientific develops solutions that go beyond just products.
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Shimazu Corporation
Diffraction Gratings
Manufacturer Overview
Shimadzu Corporation, founded in 1875 and based in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, is a Japanese manufacturer and supplier specializing in precision instruments, measuring instruments, and medical equipment. The company's products and solutions cater to various industries, including pharmaceuticals, environmental, and research institutions. For instance, Shimadzu produces analytical and measuring instruments like chromatographs and spectrometers, utilized for quality control as well as research and development in the environment, life science, and pharmaceutical fields. Furthermore, Shimadzu's medical products and systems aid in early disease detection and treatment, particularly for conditions like cancer. Additionally, Shimadzu supports manufacturing activities by providing vacuum equipment and industrial machinery.
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Teledyne Scientific & Imaging
Optical Microlenses
Manufacturer Overview
Teledyne Scientific & Imaging, located in Thousand Oaks, California, operates as a manufacturer of mechatronics and robotics solutions. Its offerings include infrared and visible sensors for image detection, Read-Out Integrated Circuits (ROICs) for signal processing, scientific and tactical cameras capturing high-resolution images, camera electronics with advanced algorithms, and laser protection devices. These solutions serve system and machine design across various sectors, including military, space, astronomy, and commercial applications. Its Quality Management System (QMS) holds certifications in compliance with ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D standards.
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Daheng New Epoch Technology,Inc.
Diffraction Gratings
Company Overview
Daheng New Epoch Technology, Inc. is a Chinese manufacturer and supplier of optical components and systems that was established in Beijing in 1987 as a subsidiary of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The company produces optical modules such as fiber collimators, optical components such as beam splitters, and optical systems such as laser marking systems. It also offers optical subsystems such as optical coherence tomography systems, as well as design and engineering services for unique projects. The company’s products are commonly used in the biomedical, scientific research, and defense sectors.
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CASTECH Inc.
Diffraction Gratings
Company Overview
Castech Inc. is a manufacturer and supplier of optics and laser components for photonics applications that was established in 1990 in Fuzhou, Fujian, China. The company’s product lineup includes precision optical components for the display and semiconductor industries, such as aspherical lenses, beam splitters, and diffraction gratings. It also offers laser components for laser systems, such as photoelastic modulators and acousto-optic devices. The company is ISO 9001, IAFT 16949, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001-certified, and chiefly serves the semiconductor and telecom industries.
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Optica Publishing Group
2D back-side diffraction grating
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Knight Optical
Diffraction Grating
Company Overview
Knight Optical is a company that manufactures optical components based in the UK. The company offers services such as design, consultancy, custom packaging, testing, quality assurance, and others. They serve a wide number of industries including scientific, defense, medical, pharmaceutical, laser engineering and manufacturing. They also provide a wide range of coating capabilities for optical components throughout the ultraviolet (UV), visible and infrared (IR) spectra.They are ISO9001:2015 and ISO14001:2015 accredited and are providing quality products and services.
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Diffraction Grating Manufacturer Ranking
*Including some distributors, etc.Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation Method| Rank | Company | Click Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Access Laser Company |
14.6%
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| 2 | OPCO Laboratory, Inc. |
13.0%
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| 3 | Plymouth Grating Laboratory |
9.9%
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| 4 | FindLight |
8.3%
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| 5 | Daheng New Epoch Technology,Inc. |
7.3%
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| 6 | Thorlabs, Inc |
7.3%
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| 7 | Knight Optical |
6.8%
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| 8 | CASTECH Inc. |
6.3%
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| 9 | SEIKOH GIKEN Co., Ltd. |
5.7%
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| 10 | Newport Corporation |
5.2%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the diffraction grating page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
- Shimazu Corporation: 13,499
- Shimadzu Seisakusho Co., Ltd.: 13,499
- HORIBA: 8,205
Newly Established Company
- Plymouth Grating Laboratory: 2004 (20 years ago)
- Access Laser Company: 1999 (25 years ago)
- Thorlabs, Inc: 1989 (35 years ago)
Company with a History
- Shimazu Corporation: 1875 (149 years ago)
- Shimadzu Seisakusho Co., Ltd.: 1875 (149 years ago)
- HORIBA: 1945 (79 years ago)
Diffraction Grating Manufacturers in United States
*Including some distributors, etc.
- Thorlabs, Inc
- Access Laser Company
- OPCO Laboratory, Inc.
- Plymouth Grating Laboratory
- FindLight
- Newport Corporation
Global Distribution of Diffraction Grating Manufacturers by Country
*Including some distributors, etc.
| Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
United States of America
|
6 | 54.5% |
Japan
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4 | 36.4% |
China
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1 | 9.1% |
