Universal Photonics, Inc.

Universal Photonics® Inc. (UPI) is a global leader in critical surfacing preparation materials. Our dedication to the advancement of surfacing technology in all phases of fabrication spans nearly a century and is supported with state-of-art laboratory, manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide. More than offer an extensive line of 9000+ quality products, UPI applies the Science of Surfacing® to all applications. Connect with an applications expert for all surfacing questions.

Universal Photonics® Inc. (UPI) is a global leader in critical surface preparation materials, advancing surfacing processes across industries for nearly a century. From optical glass to advanced ceramics, infrared materials & beyond, UPI delivers comprehensive solutions designed to meet the most demanding fabrication requirements — from coarse grinding to zero-defect finishing.

Commitment to Innovation & Support

At UPI, “Name the application, we have solutions” is more than a motto — it’s our mission. Backed by state-of-the-art laboratories, ISO-certified manufacturing facilities and a robust worldwide distribution network, we bring the latest advancements in surfacing technology directly to the production floor. Our dedicated Field Application Engineers & Technical Sales team provide in-depth technical consultation, ensuring every unique requirement is met with precision, efficiency and unmatched expertise.

Broad Portfolio of Products & Technologies

UPI offers one of the most extensive catalogs in the industry — over 9,000 products supporting grinding, lapping and polishing for virtually every substrate. Our product families include:

Polishing Compounds and Abrasives: From traditional cerium and aluminum oxides to nano-polishing formulations and diamond slurries, engineered for substrates including sapphire, quartz, silicon, germanium, spinel & more.
Polishing Materials and Pads: Featuring proprietary innovations like LP UNALON micro-cellular polyurethane pads & 3M™ Trizact™ diamond tiles, designed for faster cut rates and reduced subsurface damage.
Machinery & Equipment: Including double-sided lappers and polishers, Swiss-crafted bevellers, submerged continuous polishers, over-arm and spindle polishers, delivering accuracy, repeatability and efficiency.
Pitch and Adhesives: Custom formulations of polishing pitch and a wide range of adhesives (thermoplastic, epoxy, cements) to meet diverse blocking, grinding and mounting requirements.
Chilling & Filtering Systems: Patented CHILLMATE chillers and Turbo-HKS centrifuge systems engineered to reduce lens defects, optimize slurry management & improve environmental compliance.
Optical Tooling: Custom laps, spot blocks, carriers, gauges & holders, with capabilities exceeding 96” in diameter.
Chemicals and Additives: Cleaners, degreasers, surfactants, dispersing agents & defoamers engineered to improve process efficiency, cycle times and end-quality.

Additionally, UPI is the exclusive U.S. distributor of CDGM Glass, the world’s largest producer of optical glass, enabling rapid delivery and custom development of specialized glass types.

Global Reach & Industry Leadership

With facilities in the United States, Europe and the Far East, UPI supports customers across precision optics, photonics, semiconductor, aerospace & defense, medical imaging, laser and metrology industries. Our near 100 years of expertise, combined with an unwavering commitment to R&D & technical service, ensures customers receive solutions that evolve alongside industry innovation.

Partnering for Success

More than a supplier, Universal Photonics® is a true partner in fabrication. Our approach to Surfacing Science® integrates deep material knowledge, advanced formulations & hands-on support to optimize throughput, reduce defects & drive performance improvements in every process step.

Whether your challenge is shaping brittle substrates, polishing advanced ceramics, or achieving flawless optics, UPI delivers the products, expertise & responsiveness to help you succeed — through the last century and into the next.