OPTICS/OPTICAL MATERIALS

OPTICS/OPTICAL MATERIALS

The Q22 magnetorheological finishing (MRF) system from QED Technologies (Rochester, NY) represents the commercialization of an entirely new approach to polishing and fine figuring of high-precision glass optics (see Laser Focus World, Sept. 1998, p. 187). The system uses a magnetorheological fluid as a compliant replacement for a conventional rigid lap, then magnetically manipulates the viscosity of the fluid where it touches the workpiece surface to create a subaperture polishing lap conforming to the surface. Invented in Belarus and fine-tuned at the Center for Optics Manufacturing at the University of Rochester (Rochester, NY), the Q22 was introduced in April 1998. It is a multiple-axis, computer-controlled machine that eliminates subsurface damage while improving surface figure. The Q22 can improve precision ground or polished optics into optics having figure accuracies of better than l/20 p-v in a matter of minutes. By eliminating the need for artisan-based labor and automating the difficult and time-consuming final figuring step, the Q22 will increase production capability and reliability.