We get
brittle
materials in shape.
That's how much experience ShapeFab's engineers bring to the development and manufacturing of high-precision components from brittle-hard materials.
ShapeFab is a technology company in Jena, Germany, specializing in high-precision 5-axis CNC machining of technical glass, fused silica, and advanced ceramics. Grinding, lapping, and polishing combined in a single setup.
± 3 µm
Manufacturing tolerances
> 8 nm
Surface roughness (Ra)
200x200x150 mm
Maximum component sizes
ISO 9001
Certification
5-axis CNC machining of glass & ceramics at the highest level
Based on your specifications, we apply our expertise in CNC glass machining and CNC ceramic machining to develop and manufacture custom precision components – whether prototype or series. Freeform surfaces, complex 3D geometries, and optically effective surfaces: our components go far beyond conventional requirements in design and quality. From material selection and design for manufacturing to the finished part – we guide you through the entire development process.
Why ShapeFab?
Lot size 1
Highest manufacturing accuracy
Innovative design
FAQ
What is your minimum order quantity?
ShapeFab works from lot size 1 — single parts, prototypes, and small series are as welcome as recurring production orders. Setup and programming costs are calculated individually for each project.
What tolerances can you achieve?
We achieve tolerances down to 3 µm. The exact tolerance achievable depends on the material, geometry, and surface requirements of your part. Get in touch — we'll assess feasibility for your specific component.
How quickly will I receive a quote?
For straightforward enquiries with a complete drawing, we typically respond within a few working days. Complex geometries, special materials, or unusual tolerance requirements may need more time to assess. Simply upload your drawing (STEP, DXF, or PDF) via our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
What are your typical lead times?
Lead times are typically around 6–8 weeks from order confirmation. If you have urgent requirements, express production is available on request. Please contact us early so we can plan a realistic timeline together.
Which file formats do you accept for technical drawings?
We accept for example STEP, IGES, DXF, DWG, and PDF. For the best basis for machining, we recommend 3D files in STEP format. Please include tolerance specifications, surface requirements, and material designation where applicable.
Are you ISO-certified?
Yes. ShapeFab is ISO 9001 certified. Our quality management system covers all manufacturing and inspection processes — from order clarification through to delivery.
Do you manufacture to customer drawings or develop your own designs?
At this time we manufacture exclusively to customer drawings and specifications. We do not have our own product lines. Where needed, we're happy to advise on Design for Manufacturability (DfM) to ensure your part can be produced optimally.
Research & Development
The project aims to significantly improve the achievable surface roughness and shape deviations of current manufacturing technology. This should enable the increasing market demands for high-precision glass components to be met. Within the project, various tool systems are to be evaluated, qualified, and tested. The project, which is funded by the Free State of Thuringia, is co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF) Plus (www.esf-thueringen.de). It is funded under the FTI guideline (PERSONEN).
The aim of the project is to develop a manufacturing technology for the direct CNC production of complex three-dimensional components. The main focus is on increasing the dimensional accuracy of the geometry compared to current manufacturing technology. In addition to increasing accuracy, the aim is to reduce the development time for complex component geometries. The project, which is funded by the Free State of Thuringia, is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). It is funded under the FTI guideline (TECHNOLOGY).
This R&D project aims to develop an MES with integrated BDE that can be seamlessly integrated into the existing ERP system. Production processes are to be optimized through real-time data acquisition of various machine parameters and the use of modular software. The project, which is funded by the Free State of Thuringia, is co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF) Plus (www.esf-thueringen.de). It is funded under the FTI guideline (PERSONEN).
This project aims to systematically introduce ShapeFab's advanced manufacturing technology to selected target markets. Targeted pilot projects will translate technical advantages into business metrics and validate the technology for specific markets. The project, which is funded by the Free State of Thuringia, is co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF) Plus (www.esf-thueringen.de). It is funded under the FTI guideline (PERSONEN).
