Papers / Articles

Injection Molded Polymer Optics in the 21st-Century,
William S. Beich, Director of New Business Development, G-S PLASTIC OPTICS

The technology of injection molded polymer optics has evolved steadily over the past 50 years. Whereas toy optics were once good examples of molded optics, today a wide array of sophisticated polymer optics are manufactured through highly refined manufacturing techniques. It is impossible for the non-specialist to be expert in all the issues surrounding polymer optics production. This article will discuss the core technology employed to produce precision polymer optics. We will describe the key elements of production: thermoplastic resins, molds and molding machines and metrology. We will discuss the principle issues that determine component manufacturability and will discuss some of the issues that arise when embarking on a program of polymer optics. Finally, a case study will be presented to illustrate the process used by the manufacturer to insure program success. Read more.