Innovations in Single-Point Diamond Turning for Glass and IR(InfraRed) Materials

In the field of optical component manufacturing, the ability to process a diverse range of materials is a key indicator of technological prowess. At Yighen Ultra Precision, we leverage advanced single-point diamond turning technology to establish a comprehensive processing system that covers both glass and infrared materials. This enables us to provide precise optical solutions tailored to various applications.

ZnSe infrared diffraction grating components processed by Yiguang Technology

Glass Materials: Precision Control from High-Temperature Resistance to Special Optical Properties

Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) is a prime example of high-temperature resistant optical glass, boasting a melting point of 1360°C and excellent transmission in the 1-8μm wavelength range. It's a core material for laser processing and high-temperature optical systems. Yighen employs single-point diamond turning techniques to achieve high-precision freeform surfaces on calcium fluoride. For instance, when machining a 50mm diameter aspheric lens, the surface form accuracy (PV) can reach 0.3μm, with surface roughness (Ra) controlled within 5nm. To address issues related to abrasive dust damaging equipment during processing, we use an inert gas protective chamber combined with diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated tools. This dual protection system extends tool life threefold compared to traditional methods, significantly reducing the cost per piece.

Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂), another glass material, features a low refractive index (n=1.38 at 5μm) and broad spectral transmission (0.11-8μm). Commonly used as substrates for optical coatings and windows, magnesium fluoride presents challenges due to its brittle nature. Yighen utilizes ultra-precision diamond turning to overcome these challenges, achieving a surface roughness Ra<8nm for magnesium fluoride lenses suitable for UV-infrared composite optical systems. For example, in laser etching equipment, magnesium fluoride windows not only meet UV light transmission requirements but also withstand temperature variations during operation.

Infrared Materials: Comprehensive Processing Capabilities from Single Crystals to Composite Materials

Germanium (Ge) stands out as an ideal material for mid-infrared wavelengths (2-16μm) with a high refractive index (4.0 at 10.6μm wavelength) and good chemical stability. Widely used in infrared thermography and LiDAR applications, Yighen's processed germanium optical components exhibit a surface roughness Ra<2nm. The focal length precision of our germanium plano-convex lenses reaches ±0.1%. In forest fire monitoring infrared systems, our germanium lenses enhance detection ranges by up to 30% thanks to their high-resolution imaging capabilities.

Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) offers over 80% transmission in the mid-infrared band (0.6-16μm) and has a thermal conductivity of 0.19W/m·K, making it suitable for high-power laser beam shaping and transmission. By optimizing cutting parameters—such as a cutting speed of 150m/min and feed rate of 0.5μm/rev—and employing ultrasonic vibration-assisted cutting technology, Yighen achieves crack-free processing of zinc selenide components with a surface form accuracy PV<0.5μm. These zinc selenide prisms are utilized in CO₂ laser engraving machines, ensuring accurate deflection and focusing of laser beams.

For complex optical systems requiring integration, Yighen has developed processing technologies for infrared composite materials, such as layered cutting techniques for Ge-ZnSe composite crystals. Using the five-axis simultaneous control feature of our single-point lathes, we achieve precise machining of different material zones on the same component—smooth transitions between high-refractive-index germanium areas and high-transmission zinc selenide regions improve the optical performance of infrared imaging lenses by more than 20%. Additionally, Yighen masters the processing of chalcogenide glasses like As₂S₃ and As₂Se₃, producing non-spherical lenses with over 90% transmission in the 8-12μm band and a surface form accuracy of λ/10 (λ=10.6μm).

Yighen Technology's infrared optical glass grades that can be directly processed into optical components

Material-Process Synergy: Dual Breakthroughs in Low Cost and High Precision

Yighen’s multi-material processing advantages stem from deep synergy among "material properties, processing techniques, and equipment capabilities." For hard and brittle materials like germanium and calcium fluoride, we utilize high-rigidity NanoTech 650 FG ultra-precision lathes and sharp diamond tools (edge radius < 50nm), complemented by micro-lubrication cutting fluids to minimize machining stress. When handling soft and brittle materials such as zinc selenide, low-speed cutting and ultrasonic vibration-assisted processes prevent material tearing.

This customized approach allows Yighen to cover the entire spectrum of glass and infrared material processing, increasing material utilization rates from 30% in traditional processes to over 75%, reducing processing cycles by 60%, and lowering costs by 30%-50%. Equipped with Zygo laser interferometers and atomic force microscopes, we ensure rigorous quality control throughout the prototyping and mass production phases, meeting stringent demands across aerospace, medical devices, industrial lasers, and other sectors.

With a solid foundation in multi-material processing capabilities, Yighen Ultra Precision breaks through the barriers of special optical material processing through technological innovation, providing robust support for miniaturization and high-performance enhancement of optical systems. Looking ahead, we will continue to deepen our expertise in material processing technologies, driving the application expansion of optical components in emerging fields like new energy and quantum communication.