What Changes When Manufacturing and Using Large vs. Small Optics?
Because the typical size of optical components for research applications has significantly increased over the last decade, Manx Precision Optics takes a closer look at the scalability, or lack thereof, experienced in the fabrication of large optics used in high-energy laser systems.
Lasers now measured in petawatts (one quadrillion watts) are now commonly used for high-energy research. Some researchers are planning exawatt power systems. As lasers become ever more powerful, the demands placed on optical components grow in complexity and scale. The higher the power, the greater the laser damage threshold (LIDT) needed. It’s fortunate then, that to some extent this problem can be mitigated by using large optics.
When moving from small to large optics it’s not simply a question of scaling up. Some of the factors that must be considered when it comes to both specifying and fabricating the large optics for high-energy laser systems include:
- Handling and Safety: A 500-mm optic can weigh over 30 kg so you need special equipment and protocols for safe transport and installation.
- Manufacturing Constraints: Making large optics requires custom-built polishing machines and large coating chambers which are not common and involve a big investment.
- Metrology Challenges: Standard interferometers may not be sufficient to measure large optics and may miss critical surface deviations.
Read the full article about this topic on the Manx Precision Optics website.
About Manx Precision Optics
Manx Precision Optics (MPO) manufactures optical components and precision optics. The company offers customized products as well as a wide range of off-the-shelf components at highly competitive prices. The main categories of MPO’s standard products are:
- Laser line mirrors
- Ultrafast laser mirrors
- Polarization optics
- Large optics
- Lenses
- Etalons
- AR-coated windows
- Uncoated optical substrates
MPO works with customers to determine the most suitable optical coatings for their specific applications. With years of experience and an intimate knowledge of thin film coatings design, MPO can produce customized, quality coatings according to unique specifications.
To request more information or a quotation for Manx Precision Optics products, contact IL Photonics.