Molding allows detailed polymer geometry to be repeated once the part, material, tooling, and process have been developed. Optical molding requires attention not only to dimensions but also to transparent surfaces and the way the part interacts with light.
Optical Components
Lenses, Diffusers, Guides and Covers
Molded parts can incorporate refractive surfaces, diffuser textures, reflector geometry, locating features, clips, tabs, ribs, mounting bosses, and protective covers within one component.
Injection-molded plastics are produced across a wide range of industrial products and geometries.
Molding Process
Plastic Injection Molding
Plastic injection molding uses tooling to form polymer material into repeat component geometry.
For optical parts, gate location, flow, shrinkage, surface condition, part thickness, ejection, and material behavior can all influence the finished component.
Tool Design
The Mold Creates the Optical Surface
Critical lens, reflector, or diffuser surfaces are created by corresponding tool surfaces, so tooling quality becomes part of optical quality.
Mechanical features must also be designed so the component can fill, cool, release, and remain dimensionally suitable for assembly.
Insert Molding
Combining Molded Polymer With Other Components
Insert molding can combine a molded polymer with pre-positioned components where the product architecture benefits from an integrated assembly.
Material Selection
Choose the Polymer Around the Optical System
Material selection can affect transmission, refractive behavior, impact, heat resistance, chemical exposure, UV exposure, molding behavior, weight, and surface durability.
Optical Materials →Optical Quality
More Than Dimensional Inspection
Optical components can require evaluation of transparency, surface defects, texture, geometry, distortion, fit, alignment, and functional beam performance in addition to conventional dimensions.
Selection