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Reference · Optical Surface Finish

Optical Ra.
Sub-micrometer.
Mirror smooth.

Surface finish for optics reference. Sub-micrometer Ra requirements. Mirror polish, lapping, scanning electron polishing.

01 · Key principles

Key principles.

Optical-grade

Ra 0.05-0.1 µm

Sub-micrometer roughness. Optical surfaces.

Polished

Ra 0.05 µm

Mirror polish via buffing compound.

Lapped

Ra 0.025 µm

Lapping with abrasive paste. Premium.

Diamond turned

Ra 0.005 µm

Diamond turning for ultra-precision. Specialty.

Substrate matters

Material properties

Soft substrates (aluminum) easier than hardened steel.

Substrate flatness

PV measurement

Optical surfaces measured by Peak-to-Valley flatness, not just Ra.

FAQ

Why optical Ra?

Light scattering proportional to Ra. Mirror surfaces require sub-µm.

Achievable per process?

Polished Ra 0.05. Lapped Ra 0.025. Diamond turned Ra 0.005.

Substrate selection?

Aluminum easy. Stainless steel premium. Glass/ceramic for ultimate.

Surface flatness?

Optical surfaces measured by PV (Peak-to-Valley). λ/4 to λ/10 typical optics.

Cost progression?

Polished Ra 0.05: 2-5× standard. Lapped Ra 0.025: 5-10×. Diamond Ra 0.005: 20-50×.

Specifying on drawing?

Specify Ra value + flatness (PV). Per optical requirement.

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