The DAC lathe family is the production backbone of specialty contact lens, IOL, and ICL manufacturers worldwide — and has been for more than six decades. Every DAC lathe is purpose-built for lens manufacturing, not adapted from general-purpose CNC machinery. The result is a platform that delivers the surface quality, repeatability, and design flexibility that precision vision correction products demand.
DAC lathes share a common precision architecture: granite bases with vibration isolation, proprietary air-bearing spindles and slides, DC linear servo motor drives with linear encoder feedback, and DAC's comprehensive lens manufacturing software suite including 50+ lens design algorithms. What differs across the family is form factor, ergonomics, and the range of modular options available.
Choose your lathe
ALMe Lathe — modern ergonomics, full precision
The ALMe is DAC's current-generation flagship lathe for specialty contact lens, IOL, and ICL production. Lower machine height for faster tool access and ergonomic compliance. Touch-screen interface. Compact tool holders for maximum tool positions. Compatible with the full DAC options ecosystem — FT-3, OTT, XLS, Laser Engraving, Universal 1000 Autoloader, and more. Ideal for new labs, lab expansions, and any operation prioritizing operator efficiency.
ALM Lathe — the proven production workhorse
The ALM is the time-proven platform preferred by operations that want a higher-granite machine consistent with their existing DAC lab equipment. The same precision air-bearing architecture and full options compatibility as the ALMe — with a higher machine profile and the broadest customization range in the DAC lathe family. Available with custom X-slide lengths for specialized applications.
Expand your lathe with DAC options
Every DAC lathe is designed for modularity. Add capabilities at purchase or at any point as your production needs evolve — without replacing your core machine investment. Options include the FT-3 Edge Fast Tool, Oscillating Tool Technology (OTT), Axis Location System (XLS), Reference Mark Locator (RML), Height Measurement Gauge (HMG), Laser Engraving, Multi-Tool Management, Digital Tool Holders, Misting System, IOL Haptic Milling Spindle, and Universal 1000 Autoloader.