Interferometric Testing for Optical Surface Irregularities

Optical Metrology Equipment

At Blue Ridge Optics, our spectral and optical surface measurements are evaluated by our cadre of highly-trained quality assurance engineers.  On this page, you will learn about Blue Ridge Optics’ Optical Metrology Equipment.

Performance requirements for power output, environmental standards, and durability are tested and certified for each optical component we manufacture.

Interferometric Testing

Optical metrology equipment is critical to the manufacture of precision optics because it confirms the specifications of your component, while also playing an important role in fabrication and coating.

Blue Ridge employs a Zygo Verifire Radii Interferometer (2019 Model) and a Apre 6” HD Interferometer (2019 Model) to verify the flatness of our optical components. The latter enables us to measure larger optics. For assessing surface roughness, we use a Zygo NewView 8200 Profilometer.

Deploying our non-touch, 3D-profile interferometry and coordinate detection software, we have the ability to conduct high-resolution surface mapping for advanced laser applications, including directed energy and high-power beam steering systems.

https://wp.optics.arizona.edu/jcwyant/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2017/08/Introduction_to_Interferometric_Optical_Testing_SC213-2017-wide.pdf

Spectral Testing

For spectral testing, Blue Ridge Optics uses PE 950 Spectrophotometers (UV-MWIR) and a PE Frontiera IR Spectrophotometer. We have the ability to measure for defects at >1.5 microns with our precision surface scans. Our 3D mapping helps to identify sites of potential damage, characterize defects, and mitigate any issues that may arise.

https://www.ci-systems.com/spectral-target-projector

Spectral Testing within Blue Ridge Optics

Equipment List for Optical Metrology

  • Perkin Elmer 950 Spectrophotometers
  • Zygo NewView 8200 Profilometer
  • Zygo Verifire Radii Interferometer
  • Apre S150 6″ Interferometer
  • Zeiss Computer Controlled CMMC
  • Olympus SZX7 Defect Mapping Microscope
  • Nikon Autocollimator(s)
  • Laser Fizeau Long Range Measurements Tables
  • Nikon Computer Automated Profiler
  • Savvy Inspector Scratch Dig
  • Tenney Computer Assisted Environmental Chamber(s)

Standards

  • MIL-C-48497A (Historical)
  • MIL-PRF-13830B
  • ISO & AS9100 FAI