G-S Plastic Optics Installs Diamond Turning Machine

Polymer optics developer G-S Plastic Optics has installed a new single point diamond turning (SPDT) machine to expand rapid manufacturing capabilities for large departure freeform optics.

The system will reduce the lead time to complete prototypes and produce optical inserts for molds. It will also use the full X-axis travel to cut larger parts and high slope diffractives through the new B axis. The measurement of mechanical features ensures proper alignment between datums and the optical coordinate system. A new HS 150 spindle will reduce part-to-part variation, providing 5× improvement in thermal stability.

The SPDT machine will also reduce sensitivity to vibration with the dual frame design with TMC MaxDamp isolation and achieve better surface finishes on freeform surfaces using the 16-picometer feedback resolution on the X and Z axes.

G-S Plastic Optics manufactures precision polymer optics for imaging, scanning, detection and LED illumination system applications.