Parabolic reflectors

Parabolic mirrors and off-axis parabolic mirrors made of OFHC copper and aluminium

Parabolic reflectors High accuracy and efficiency in focussing

A parabolic mirror is a special type of convex or concave mirror whose surface has a parabolic shape. The special property of a parabolic mirror lies in its ability to focus incident parallel rays, e.g. laser light, at a single point, the so-called focal point. The geometric shape of the parabolic mirror makes it possible for all the rays reflected by it to converge on the same point, regardless of their angle of incidence. This is particularly useful in the optical industry as it enables precise control and manipulation of light beams.

Parabolic mirrors have many applications in laser technology and precision engineering. In laser technology, parabolic mirrors are used to precisely focus and direct the laser beam. This enables high-precision cutting and welding work to be carried out. In precision technology, parabolic mirrors are used in telescopes, for example, to bundle light beams and focus them on a single point. Parabolic mirrors are therefore indispensable components for applications where maximum precision and accuracy are required.

Manufacturing of parabolic mirrors

Parabolic mirrors are often manufactured using special diamond processing technology, such as SPDT (Single Point Diamond Turning). A diamond tool is used to precisely machine the material of the mirror and achieve the desired parabolic shape. This method makes it possible to produce high-quality parabolic mirrors with a very smooth surface and high accuracy.

Materials and techniques

Various materials and techniques are used in the manufacture of parabolic mirrors. High-purity materials such as OFHC copper and aluminium are often used, as they have high reflectivity and are also corrosion-resistant. OFHC copper (Oxygen-Free High Conductivity Copper) is often used for coating parabolic mirrors due to its high electrical conductivity. Aluminium is also frequently used due to its lightness and good reflective properties.

Coatings are an important component of parabolic mirrors to improve their performance. Finishing with gold or silver can optimise the reflective properties of the mirror and increase efficiency. Special high power coatings can also be used to improve durability and resistance to environmental influences. With the right coating, parabolic mirrors can achieve greater accuracy and efficiency in focussing light beams. It is therefore important to select the right coating according to the requirements and areas of application of the parabolic mirrors.

Off-axis parabolic reflectors

The off-axis parabolic mirror is a special type of parabolic mirror used in various fields such as optics, astronomy and satellite technology. In contrast to a conventional parabolic mirror, which is symmetrical along its axis, the off-axis parabolic mirror is laterally offset so that the focal point and the axis of the mirror do not coincide.

This unique feature allows the off-axis parabolic mirror to reflect light rays parallel to the axis of the mirror without creating interfering secondary reflections that can distort the image. Furthermore, this configuration allows the use of larger detectors or other optical elements in the focal point of the mirror without blocking the incident light beam.

Advantages of copper and aluminium parabolic mirrors in the optical industry and laser technology:

High reflectivity: parabolic mirrors made of copper and aluminium offer high reflectivity, which makes them ideal for applications in the optical industry and laser technology.
Good thermal conductivity: Copper and aluminium have good thermal conductivity, which helps to cool the mirror and ensures high performance.
Stability: These materials are robust and offer high stability, which ensures a long service life for the parabolic mirror.
Lightweight: Aluminium is a lightweight material, which makes the parabolic reflector easier to handle and install.
Formability: Copper and aluminium are easy to form, which allows the production of parabolic mirrors in different sizes and shapes.
Versatility: Copper and aluminium parabolic mirrors can be used in various applications, from metrology to laser material processing.
High precision: Thanks to their smooth surface and good reflectivity, these mirrors offer high precision in focussing light beams.
Environmental friendliness: Copper and aluminium are recyclable materials, which increases the sustainability of parabolic mirrors made from these materials.

Noteworthy properties:

Sensitivity to scratches: the surface of copper and aluminium is sensitive to scratches, which makes the mirror more difficult to maintain.
Susceptibility to fingerprints: Fingerprints can impair the reflectivity of the mirror and require regular cleaning.
Oxidation: Aluminium can oxidise, which can reduce the reflectivity of the mirror and requires regular maintenance.
Limited durability: Compared to other materials such as gold or silver, copper and aluminium have a limited durability.
Difficult to repair: Scratches or damage to copper and aluminium parabolic mirrors can be difficult to repair and affect performance.
Susceptibility to contamination: Dirt or dust on the surface of the mirror can affect reflectivity and reduce the performance of the mirror.
Limited adaptability: Copper and aluminium parabolic mirrors may be limited in shape and size due to their material properties.

Do you need further information for Parabolic reflectors? Get in touch now

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