Cleaning & Handling

Precision Cleaning, Inspection, and Handling of Large Optics

PGL has many years of experience developing cleaning processes that permit the highest laser-induced damage thresholds (LIDT). Our custom-designed cleaning equipment permits hands-free handling for most process steps.

In-process tooling is carefully designed to allow thermal expansion of substrates and tooling without damage to the optics. Custom designed and tested handling tooling allows for safe handling of the substrates. Special packaging protects substrates from contamination.

PGL provides thorough analysis and documentation of any cosmetic defects at multiple stages throughout the production process.

Custom optics handling fixtures are vital for the manufacturing process.
PGL employs a variety of inspection methods.

Multipurpose Bezel Mounts

PGL’s custom-designed and manufactured bezel mounts remove uncertainty and hazards from the grating transport and mounting process. These mounts:

  • Provide a kinematic mount for the grating
  • Allow wavefront testing in the final mount
  • Function as a safe shipping frame
  • Are lightweight to minimize loading on customer hardware
  • Provide a cover to protect grating during mounting and during maintenance cycles
  • Are made entirely with low-outgassing materials suitable for high vacuum; all blind holes are vented
  • Eliminate the need for special hardware to handle, mount, and transport; grating may be moved by standard lifts and slings using the provided lift rings

PGL custom designs and manufactures hardware such as this bezel which is used for both shipping and final system mounting of the grating.

Plymouth Grating Laboratory is dedicated to making the highest-quality diffraction gratings available today. Our focus is on lasers and laser systems. PGL gratings offer exceptionally high diffraction efficiency and laser damage threshold, combined with superior wavefront error and uniformity over large areas. This performance is made possible by PGL’s exclusive use of the Nanoruler, based on the proprietary Scanning Beam Interference Lithography technology developed at MIT, and PGL’s industry-leading process expertise. The company occupies 20,000 sq. ft. of dedicated manufacturing, engineering, and office space in Carver, MA, just outside of Plymouth, and about 45 miles south of Boston.

5 Commerce Way, Carver, MA 02330, USA|+1.508.503.1719|sales@plymouthgrating.com

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