Source:
https://scmp.com/article/1739934/wzw-optics-super-polishing-technology-puts-it-cutting-edge
Country Reports

WZW Optic's super polishing technology puts it at cutting edge

(From left): David Varrie, director of sales and marketing, and Claudio Meli, CEO

As the only commercial company in Europe and Asia possessing superpolishing technology, WZW Optic is relied upon by organisations in sectors ranging from medical to defence to provide custom-made optical elements for high-precision applications. 

The Switzerland-based enterprise takes pride in its capability to produce surfaces with the specific roughness level needed for minimal light scatter, translating to superior laser performance. WZW has supported the groundbreaking research of Europe's leading scientific institutions such as CERN and ETH Zurich in Switzerland, and Fraunhofer in Germany. The company's partnership on a space project with China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp is testament to its directed focus on the Chinese market. 

"We are famous for our openness to partnerships and the flexibility we offer to our key customers," says CEO Claudio Meli. 

From in-house design of laser assemblies to the specialised manufacture of prisms, beam splitters and micro-optics, WZW's products and services are a cut above the rest. The company's quick reaction to market demands, fast prototyping capability and flexibility towards customers' specifications have been crucial to the company's 50-year success. WZW also considers its relationships with institutes and universities in Europe and Asia as keys to its survival and longevity.

"Sharing of technology and processes is extremely valuable in demonstrating trust and our commitment to China and Asia," says David Varrie, director of sales and marketing. "We see long-term potential growth with government organisations in China."

WZW's clients are original equipment manufacturers who see the benefits of high-end precision manufacturing beyond its premium price. Though the majority of its business involves flat optics, the company is responding to the need for innovation in the aerospace and defence industries by expanding its super polishing expertise to include spherical surfaces.

"Even if we produce at a high level, our flexibility with customers, including those in Asia, makes us the perfect company to partner with," Meli says.