Planoform 650 - Fly Cutting Ultraprecise Flat Surfaces
Single Point Diamond Turning (SPDT) is a precision machining process used to produce extremely flat, smooth, and optically precise surfaces. While it's often associated with curved or aspheric surfaces, it is also used to machine flats in several high-end applications where surface quality and dimensional accuracy are critical. Some examples of applications that require precision flats include:
• Flat mirrors for high-performance optical systems (e.g., telescopes, laser systems).
Infrared (IR) windows and domes made from materials like ZnSe, Ge, or CaF₂.
• Wafer chucks and mask aligners requiring ultra-flat surfaces.
• Reference flats for interferometric calibration.
Single Point Diamond Turning is uniquely suited for making high precision flat surfaces for the following reasons:
• Sub-nanometer surface roughness.
• High geometric accuracy (flatness, parallelism).
• Ability to machine hard-to-cut materials like crystals, ceramics, and metals.
• No subsurface damage, unlike grinding or polishing.
Precitech has been manufacturing dedicated fly cutters and vertical turning lathes for more than 30 years and is the only manufacturer of SPDT machines to offer a dedicated fly cutter, the Planoform 650 ultra.
Transformative Improvements in Flat Surface Machining
Advancing beyond traditional lathe systems, our fly cutter technology revolutionizes the process of creating flat surfaces. Unlike typical lathes where the workpiece rotates, in this configuration the cutting tool spins, performing a fly cutting action. This ensures flatter surfaces and eliminates common issues such as unintentional cone or dish shapes. Over decades of refinement, we’ve expanded the machine's capabilities, allowing for larger workpieces and enhanced flexibility. The benefits of this are greater efficiency and precision that drive down costs and improve product quality.
Vertical Turning Lathe: Precision Meets Versatility
Our vertical turning lathe, designed especially for heavy workpieces, offers a breakthrough in load management and precision engineering. Spanning a vertical rather than horizontal axis, the VTL simplifies handling, reducing the need for cumbersome equipment like cranes to load and unload workpieces. This innovation is crucial for industries where precision in face patterning and smaller tolerances can make a significant difference in product performance and reliability. With our VTL solutions, users can achieve finer finishes and push the limits of what’s possible in machining applications.
If your application requires very precise, optical-quality, flat surfaces, contact us. We would be happy to work with you on your specific application.