Where to Order Custom Shadow Masks for Research Labs | PVD/CVD/Sputtering
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Where to Order Custom Shadow Masks for Research Labs (University-Friendly Guide)
Shadow masks are essential tools for PVD, CVD, sputtering, evaporation, sensor fabrication, thin-film patterning, and early-stage device prototyping.
Research labs often require non-standard, one-off, or highly precise mask designs, which makes selecting the right supplier crucial.
This guide explains:
- What to look for in a custom mask supplier
- Typical capabilities and tolerances
- How to prepare your design files
- Why research labs prefer specialized fabrication services
- Direct ordering options for universities and R&D teams
What Makes a Good Shadow Mask Supplier for Research Applications?
A qualified supplier should provide:
1. Micro-feature capability
- Minimum feature size: 30–40 µm for stainless steel
- Available alternatives for finer features (nickel, silicon, etc.)
2. Custom thickness and materials
- Stainless steel: 0.05–0.5 mm
- Molybdenum, nickel, or silicon (upon request)
3. Fast turnaround
Research projects often depend on rapid prototyping.
4. Engineering support
A good supplier helps refine:
- Feature sizes
- Thickness selection
- Tolerance optimization
- Manufacturability
5. University-friendly ordering
- Purchase orders (PO)
- Tax-exempt ordering
- Net-30 terms (when available)
- Documented invoice formats
Recommended Thickness for Research Masks
| Feature Size | Recommended Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 20–30 µm | 0.05–0.10 mm | best resolution |
| 30–50 µm | 0.10–0.15 mm | widely used in labs |
| 50–100 µm | 0.15–0.20 mm | stable & reliable |
| 100–500 µm | 0.20–0.50 mm | thick masks OK |
What Information Should Labs Provide When Ordering?
To avoid delays, prepare:
1. Material & thickness
e.g., “304 stainless, 0.1 mm”
2. Critical dimensions
Mark features requiring tighter tolerances.
3. Quantity
Even single-piece orders are fine.
4. Application type
Helps optimize design:
- PVD / CVD / sputtering
- Organic deposition
- Sensor fabrication
- Semiconductor prototyping
Why Many Universities Choose Specialized Microfabrication Vendors
1. Ability to produce non-standard micro features
Standard machining shops cannot cut 30–50 µm features.
2. Experience with scientific projects
Mask suppliers understand:
- alignment holes
- wafer compatibility
- vacuum requirements
- thermal constraints in deposition systems
3. Small batch compatibility
Most labs need 1–5 pieces, not 1000.
4. Faster communication for iterative R&D
Scientific projects often require revisions.
Example Capabilities Provided by Research-Focused Suppliers
| Capability | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Min feature size | 30–40 µm |
| Tolerance | ±5–10 µm |
| Thickness | 0.05–0.5 mm |
| Materials | SS304, Nickle, Mo, Silicon |
| Lead time | 3–7 business days |
| Support | Free engineering review |
What to Avoid When Choosing a Supplier
❌ Shops with no experience in micro features
❌ Vendors requiring 100+ minimum order qty
❌ Suppliers who cannot provide tolerances
❌ Shops using mechanical milling (not suitable for µm patterns)
❌ PCB factories (cannot cut metals with µm resolution)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where can universities order custom shadow masks?
Specialized microfabrication vendors that support 30–40 µm precision and small-quantity orders.
Q2. What file format is needed?
DXF or vector CAD formats.
Q3. Can single-piece orders be made?
Yes — research suppliers typically support 1–5 pcs.
Q4. What is the usual turnaround time?
3–7 business days depending on complexity.
Q5. What thickness is best for thin-film research?
0.1–0.15 mm stainless steel.