Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Optical Thin-Film Coatings Provider in Ventura, CA
Guernsey Coating Laboratories has been a leader in optical thin-film coatings since 1982, delivering precision solutions for medical, aerospace, defense, and telecommunications industries. Our expertise spans custom design, R&D, and high-volume production, supported by state-of-the-art vacuum chambers and advanced testing equipment. With over 40 years of experience, we specialize in anti-reflection, mirror, filter, and beam-splitter coatings optimized for performance across ultraviolet to near-infrared wavelengths. Our team maintains an average tenure of 25 years, ensuring deep technical knowledge and continuity in solving complex client challenges. We adhere to rigorous quality standards, including Mil-Spec compliance, and employ meticulous handling, cleaning, and traceability protocols to minimize defects.Our ITAR registration and SPICA certifications underscore our commitment to security and quality assurance. By combining innovative thin-film designs with substrates like glass, metals, and fiber optics, we provide tailored solutions that exceed industry benchmarks. Our localized operations in Ventura, CA, enable direct client collaboration from concept to production. We prioritize open communication and personalized attention, treating every client project with the same care as our own. This dedication to craftsmanship and customer success has sustained our growth from a single vacuum system to a trusted industry leader.
Services
Anti-Reflection Coatings
Mirror Coatings
Filter Coatings
Beam-Splitter Coatings
Metallization on Polycarbonate
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of specialized experience in optical coating technology
- Custom solutions for complex wavelength requirements from UV to NIR
- Average staff tenure of 25 years ensures deep technical expertise
- ITAR-registered operations for secure defense and aerospace projects
- SPICA-certified quality control processes with
Associations and certifications
- SPICA Certifications
What people say
Precision coatings
Reliable delivery
Technical support
Quality consistency
Long-term partnership
Services
Anti-Reflection Coatings
Our broadband anti-reflection coatings reduce surface reflection to
Mirror Coatings
We produce protected silver and enhanced aluminum mirror coatings with reflectivity up to 97% in visible wavelengths. Our hybrid designs combine metallic bases with dielectric layers for improved abrasion resistance. These high-performance mirrors serve aerospace and defense applications requiring precise light control.
Filter Coatings
Our dielectric filter coatings selectively transmit specific wavelengths for laser systems and spectroscopy equipment. Customizable for 193nm-3000nm ranges, these filters achieve >99% reflectivity with minimal scatter. We optimize designs for angle of incidence and environmental durability in industrial measurement applications.
Beam-Splitter Coatings
We manufacture dielectric and metallic beam splitters that divide light paths for interferometry and laser systems. Dielectric versions offer >99% efficiency with adjustable split ratios, while metallic designs provide moderate spectral performance. Both options maintain polarization control for precision optical systems.
Coatings on Plastics
Our specialized tooling enables thin-film coatings on plastic substrates for LED lighting and display applications. We apply anti-reflection and hydrophobic coatings to polycarbonate components, balancing optical performance with material compatibility. Custom masking ensures precise coverage on complex geometries.
People
Ty Guernsey
Founder & CEO
Established GCL in 1982 with a single vacuum chamber. Leads strategic growth while maintaining hands-on involvement in technical operations. Drives innovation in thin-film designs and substrate applications.
Mike Milbrett
General Manager
Oversees daily operations and quality assurance. Implements process improvements that reduced defect rates by 40% over five years. Ensures compliance with ITAR and SPICA certification standards.
Robert Mendenhall
Business Development & Sales
Manages client relationships with major aerospace and defense contractors. Facilitates technical consultations to translate customer requirements into coating specifications. Maintains 95% client retention rate.
Al Luna
Operations Manager
Directs production scheduling and equipment maintenance. Implemented traceability system that reduced production errors by 30%. Oversees staff training programs for new coating technologies.
Questions
What industries do you serve?
We serve aerospace, defense, medical technology, telecommunications, and semiconductor industries with specialized optical coatings.
What coating types are available?
We offer anti-reflection, mirror, filter, beam-splitter, and custom specialty coatings for UV to NIR wavelengths.
Are you ITAR compliant?
Yes, we maintain ITAR registration for defense-related projects and secure handling of controlled technical data.
What quality certifications do you hold?
We have SPICA certifications for abrasion resistance, humidity, and temperature stability testing.
Can you coat non-glass materials?
Yes, we apply coatings to metals, fiber optics, and plastics including polycarbonate substrates.
How do you ensure coating quality?
We use Zygo interferometry testing and document every production step for full traceability.
