Polymer Optics
Injection Molding for Precision Optics
Our engineers work closely with you to understand your application requirements, evaluate tolerances, establish quality metrics, and design and build a mold that will consistently produce optical elements to your specifications. We work closely with our clients to:
- Understand their application
- Reduce risk
- Evaluate tolerances
- Establish quality metrics
- Build a mold that will consistently deliver uniform optical components
Our molding presses have a capacity of 20-200 tons with part sizes ranging from 2.5mm-150mm. We have complete precision optics manufacturing production capability and routinely handle programs from thousands to millions of parts per year. The automation on our presses can be customized to maximize efficiency and minimize handling costs.
MANUFACTURING STANDARDS
| Parameter | Standard | Precision |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length (%) | ±5 | ±2 |
| Radius of curvature (%) | ±3 - 5 | ±2 - 3 |
| Power (fringes) | 10 | 5 |
| Irregularity (fringes/10mm) | 4 | 2 |
| Scratch/dig | 80/50 | 60/40 |
| Center thickness (mm) | ±0.1 | ±0.05 |
| Flange diameter (mm) | ±0.1 | ±0.05 |
| Concentricity (mm) | 0.1 | 0.05 |
| Center to edge thickness ratio | 1:1 | 3:1 |
| Surface roughness (ÅRMS) | >75 | >60 |
Injection Molding Materials
Material selection for plastic optics is driven by several factors; optical performance is only one of them. Designers should also be aware of the mechanical features of different optical polymers and how various environmental conditions could affect system performance. Cost and manufacturability issues are other important factors.
We have extensive experience in molding materials such as:
- Acrylic
- NAS
- Polystyrene
- Polycarbonate
- COP: Zeonex, Zeonor
Product enquiry
So we can better understand your requirements, please complete the product enquiry form below.