Mechanical manual production has long since been replaced by CNC-controlled processing machines and automated manufacturing processes in the production of high-precision glass optics for laser technology, medical technology and the optical industry. In this industry in particular, the µm, that is to say the thousandth of a millimetre, is the basic unit of measurement. The key factor here is the repeatability of results in terms of precision, for instance in computer-controlled corrections when polishing high-quality lenses.
The ideal foundation for nano-scale accuracies in precision optics
In the final processing of, for instance, high-quality aspheric lenses for cameras, glasses or binoculars, the processing goes into the nano range of <= 10nm. It goes without saying that the frame, or foundation, of the processing machines is of considerable importance in such demanding manufacturing processes. Even the tiniest vibrations or thermal changes need to be eliminated in order to ensure consistently precise results in the long term.
With this in mind, more and more manufacturers of machines for the optical industry are using alternative mineral frame solutions made of granite or concrete instead of the conventional metal constructions in steel and grey cast iron.
Due to their favourable physical properties of thermal stability and vibration damping, granite and high-strength concrete are perfect for the production and processing of precision glass optics, hardened metals or other materials (e.g. Zerodur). Thanks to the low specific thermal expansion and thermal conductivity, mineral machine frames are far more advantageous than metal machine frames. Another benefit is the excellent vibration damping when exposed to natural and external frequencies. So it is entirely understandable that machine constructors in the optical industry should now increasingly be using granite and high-strength concrete for their base frames. Our technical data sheets will provide you with an overview of the physical properties of granite and concrete in comparison with other materials.
Granite and concrete offer a wide range of applications for machines in precision optics
Precision moulding is now also another manufacturing alternative to the conventional machining process (milling, grinding, polishing) in the series production of high-precision and complex glass optics. Even this very new process requires high-precision machines, especially when it comes to manufacturing the necessary pressing tools. This involves precision in the nanometre range, for which the processing machines need a suitably stable foundation. The above properties of granite and concrete also offer the best fundamental conditions for achieving the desired results in machining precision.
Along with the advantageous physical properties, mineral machine foundations are also winners in terms of sustainability. This includes considerations such as the low energy consumption in raw material extraction, and the low energy consumption and low carbon emissions for refining and recycling.
Mechanical engineers often lack the necessary knowledge and experience that would allow them to trust in the use of mineral foundations in machines. Reitz therefore offers its customers comprehensive advice right from the development stage. The production technology of the machine and its requirements are analysed by both parties together in order to develop the optimum base frame in granite or high-strength concrete.
Our services include:
- Advice on the material-specific construction
- Provision of technical information
- Reconstruction or optimisation of existing machine components
- Support with the construction of complete customer-specific systems
- Entire project management
- Electronic/mechanical assembly
The engineers at Reitz look forward to providing competent support for new and challenging optical projects with their knowledge and experience!
