REO has introduced a new range of spherical lenses specifically designed to meet the needs of demanding applications throughout the infrared wavelength range. These include high performance Flir imagers that also incorporate laser lines, as well as other IR laser-based systems, such as those used in laser targeting and IR countermeasure applications. REO fabricates these lenses from a variety of substrate materials, including CaF2, ZnS, ZnSe, Ge, Si, GaAs, thus enabling operation over the 3-14µm spectral range. Component diameters are available in the range of 0.25-10-inches, and typical surface flatness for these optics is λ/10 (at 633nm).
Infrared optics of this type are often used in military systems in which environmental stability and coating durability are critical, and/or where multi-spectral operation is required. REO employs advanced plasma source (APS) coating technology in order to deliver highly densified thin films that exhibit superior resistance to environmentally-induced damage or performance degradation. Plus, APS technology also enables precise control over coating layer stress, which allows good control over part distortion on high aspect ratio parts. The technique enhances the stability of the physically thick films often required for multi-wavelength operation in the IR.
REO can also readily customise the lenses with a variety of features, such as holes, slots and polished mounting surfaces. REO also provides abrasive jet machining (AJM) services to roughen selected areas of lens edges so as to provide a more compliant surface for adhesive bonding.