Metrology Capabilities
Precision Testing and Measurement for High-Performance Optical Systems
At MLPhotonic, metrology is at the core of our commitment to quality. As an ISO 9001:2008 certified company, we provide advanced metrology solutions that ensure our optical products meet the strictest performance and dimensional tolerances.
Every optic we produce undergoes 100% inspection, and all prototype orders are supplied with test data to guarantee traceability and transparency.
Our comprehensive metrology capabilities—including interferometry, spectrophotometry, contact/non-contact surface measurement, and environmental testing—support product integrity from prototype to full-scale production. By integrating precision measurement with advanced manufacturing processes like MRF and IBF, MLPhotonic delivers unmatched surface quality and dimensional accuracy.
Interferometric Surface Figure Metrology
MLPhotonic employs advanced laser interferometers to assess the surface figure accuracy of flat and spherical optics. These systems provide absolute accuracy to approximately R 0.001 μm / △N 0.03fr, ensuring your optical surfaces meet demanding precision standards.
Our capabilities include:
Sub-aperture stitching interferometry for large, high-NA and complex-shaped optics
LUPHOScan 260 3D interferometer for aspheric and mild freeform surfaces up to Ø260mm
QED SSI interferometer for sub-aperture stitching of optics up to Ø300mm
Zygo GPI XP / Verifire systems in vertical and horizontal setups for plano and spherical optics
Wavefront error measurement, PSI, and QPSI with MetroPro/Mx software
Spectrophotometric Coating Curve Metrology
Our coating analysis is supported by UV-Vis-NIR and FTIR spectrophotometers, offering a wavelength range from 175nm to 25,000nm and a photometric range of OD8. With wavelength distinguishability of 0.1nm, we provide an accurate evaluation of:
- Reflectivity and transmission
- Polarisation extinction and retardance
- Coating performance at varying angles of incidence
Aspheric Lens Contour Metrology
To support aspheric, diffractive, and spherical surface evaluation, MLPhotonic uses:
- Taylor-Hobson PGI contact contourgraph, accurate to 0.1μm, measuring angles up to 90°
- Zygo ZeGage non-contact 3D scanner, accurate to 0.05μm, for parts up to Ø260mm x 75mm
These tools allow precise measurement of peak-to-valley error, curvature, and contour consistency—even on large-departure or complex surfaces.
Integrated Metrology & Finishing Technologies
Our measurement systems work in tandem with QED Magnetorheological Finishing (MRF) and Ion Beam Figuring (IBF), enabling post-polishing correction for ultra-high precision optics.
Additional Measurement Equipment
We maintain a wide range of auxiliary equipment to ensure complete metrology coverage:
- Trioptics centration systems for EFL, BFL, radius, centration error, and MTF
- OGP SmartScope & Optical CMM microscope for dimensional and defect inspection
- Goniometer & Autocollimators for prism and angular measurements
- Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) like the MH3D DCC for mechanical verification
- Image Science MTF testers for on and off-axis MTF in visible and IR
- Optical comparators for profile inspection
Environmental Testing Capabilities
MLPhotonic’s environmental testing facilities are equipped to simulate and evaluate durability under real-world conditions:
Laser Damage Threshold Testing
Coating adhesion, abrasion, humidity resistance, and thermal cycling to ISO/MIL PRF standards
Salt fog testing
Shock and vibration testing
These tests ensure our optics maintain performance in even the harshest conditions.
Partner with MLPhotonic for metrology that delivers confidence.
Contact us today to discuss how our precision testing solutions can support your next optical project.
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