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Understanding Surface Quality Specifications

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Understanding Surface Quality Specifications

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The surface quality of an optical component is an evaluation of the surface imperfections, such as scratches and pits, or digs, which may be caused during the manufacturing or handling process. Lens Surface quality is more important for laser applications than imaging applications because surface imperfections can be the initiating sites for laser-induced damage. Sensitive systems where maximum signal strength is essential can also suffer from throughput variations and increased scattering from surface imperfections. Optics used with UV wavelengths require tighter surface quality tolerances than optics used with visible or IR systems because shorter wavelengths experience higher amounts of scatter. The specified surface quality directly impacts cost, therefore over-specifying your optics and using a better surface quality than required will unnecessarily increase costs.

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