Mounted High-Precision Aspheres: CNC Polished, N-BK7 or S-LAH64 Substrate


  • Ø12.5 mm, Ø25 mm, and Ø50 mm Mounted Aspheric Lenses
  • Uncoated and AR Coated Options Available
  • Numerical Apertures from 0.23 to 0.55
  • Compatible with SM-Threaded Components

AL1225M-A

SM05 Threaded (0.535"-40)
AR Coated for 350 - 700 nm

AL2550M

SM1 Threaded (1.035"-40)

AL50100M-B

SM2 Threaded (2.035"-40)
AR Coated for 650 - 1050 nm

Application Idea

AL2520M-C Post-Mounted Using K5X1 5-Axis Kinematic Mount

Related Items


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Common Specificationsa
Focal Length Deviation ±1%
Sag Deviation ±7.5 µm
Surface Irregularity
of Convex Surface
<3 Fringes (RMS)
Wavefront Error (RMS) <0.5 µm
Surface Quality 40-20 Scratch-Dig (Uncoated)
60-40 Scratch-Dig (AR Coated)
Design Wavelength 780 nm
AR Coating Reflectance Ravg < 0.5%
  • Complete specifications available by clicking on the Info Icons (info icon) below.
Webpage Features
Zemax Files Click on the red Document icon next to the item numbers below to access the Zemax file download. Our entire Zemax Catalog is also available.
info icon Clicking this info icon below will open a window that contains specifications, a reference drawing, performance plots, and aspheric coefficients.
Precision Aspheric Lenses Selection Guide
Substrate Material NA Mount
UV Fused Silica 0.142 - 0.145 Unmounted
0.142 - 0.145 Mounted
0.65 Unmounted
N-BK7 / S-LAH64 0.23 - 0.61 Unmounted
0.23 - 0.55 Mounted
Zinc Selenide 0.22 - 0.67 Unmounted
Acylindrical Lenses 0.45 - 0.54 Unmounted
Axicons - Unmounted
Optic Cleaning Tutorial
Seating Lip for Mounted Precision Aspheres
Click for Details

The lens seating guide runs along the inner diameter of the lens tube.
Optical Coatings and Substrates
Lens Tutorial

Features

  • Mounted Plano-Convex Aspheric Lenses from Ø12.5 mm to Ø50 mm
  • Numerical Aperture Choices from 0.23 to 0.55
  • Available Uncoated or AR Coated
    • AR Coatings for 350 - 700 nm, 650 - 1050 nm, or 1050 - 1700 nm 
  • CNC Precision Polish Enables High Optical Performance
  • Mounted Lenses are Compatible with SM-Threaded Components
  • Unmounted Precision Aspheres Also Available

Thorlabs' Ø12.5 mm - Ø50 mm precision aspheric lenses are available uncoated or AR coated for either 350 - 700 nm, 650 - 1050 nm, or 1050 - 1700 nm (Ravg < 0.5%). The lenses are sold mounted inside a SM-threaded aluminum housing. As shown in the diagram below, this housing is designed specifically for our aspheric lenses and features a lip that helps center the lens when seated within the mount.

These aspheric lenses are optimized for focusing light incident on the aspheric side of the lens with minimal spherical aberration, although they can also be used for collimation when light is incident on the plano side. Lenses are available with NAs ranging from 0.23 to 0.55; the low-NA (<0.3) options are well suited for applications that require a specific beam shape to be maintained, while the high-NA (>0.4) options provide high light-gathering ability (low f/#) while still minimizing spherical aberration. These lenses are also available unmounted in uncoated or AR-coated versions.

Thorlabs' Precision Aspheric Lenses are manufactured using a computer numerical control (CNC) process. By using CNC machines to grind and polish each lens (as opposed to molding), it becomes possible to produce large-diameter (≥10 mm) aspheric lenses that provide RMS wavefront error below 0.5 µm. For example, Ø15 mm CNC-polished aspheric lenses typically provide 20X to 50X less wavefront error than molded lenses.

These lenses are manufactured from either S-LAH64 or N-BK7. Both substrates offer high transmission from the visible through the NIR (see the Info Icons below for transmission data). However, since S-LAH64 has a higher index of refraction than N-BK7, it is commonly used to fabricate high-NA, short-focal-length lenses.

Optical Performance Verification
Each lens undergoes a rigorous verification procedure. Our metrology lab uses Zygo Verifire™, NewView™, and GPI™ interferometers to generate a three-dimensional map of the lens's optical surfaces in a contact-free geometry. In addition, a PGI Dimension 5XL profilometer allows for contact measurements of optics. These capabilities allow us to measure and maintain our specifications with far greater confidence than would otherwise be possible. Please see the Metrology tab for more information.

Custom Aspheric Lenses
Thorlabs' CNC-polished aspheric lenses are manufactured at the production facility housed in our headquarters in Newton, NJ. Our optics business unit has a wide breadth of manufacturing capabilities that allow us to offer a variety of custom optics for both OEM sales and low quantity one-off orders. Custom lens diameters, focal lengths, substrates, coatings, and mounting options are available with prices that are comparable to our stock offerings. For more information, please see the Custom Capabilities tab or contact Tech Sales to inquire about a custom order.

Other CNC-Polished Aspheres
Thorlabs also manufactures CNC-polished lower NA aspheric lenses fabricated from UV fused silica in mounted and unmounted versions. These Ø1" high-precision lenses feature tighter tolerances than those sold on this page. Higher NA UV fused silica lenses are available in various diameters in unmounted versions. Please see the Selection Guide table to the right for our full selection of precision aspheric lenses.

MRF-Polished Aspheres
We also offer diffraction-limited, MRF-polished aspheres with minimal wavefront error. These lenses are free of spherical aberrations and offer the best single-element solution for many on-axis applications.

Transmission Data for S-LAH64 and N-BK7 Substrates


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The graph above shows the transmission of a 10 mm thick S-LAH64 substrate.
Transmission of Uncoated N-BK7Click to Enlarge
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The graph above shows the transmission of a 10 mm thick N-BK7 substrate.

Reflectance Data for AR-Coated Lenses


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The blue shaded region indicates the specified 350 - 700 nm wavelength range where the specifications are guaranteed.

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The blue shaded region indicates the specified 650 - 1050 nm wavelength range where the specifications are guaranteed.


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Click Here for Raw Data
The blue shaded region indicates the specified 1050 - 1700 nm wavelength range where the specifications are guaranteed.

Aspheric Lens Design Variables
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Reference Drawing

Aspheric Lens Design Formula

Definitions of Variables
z Sag (Surface Profile) as a Function of Y
Y Radial Distance from Optical Axis
R Radius of Curvature
k Conic Constant
An nth Order Aspheric Coefficient

The aspheric surfaces of these lenses may be described using a polynomial expansion in Y, the radial distance from the optical axis. The surface profile or sagitta (often abbreviated as sag) is denoted by z, and is given by the following expression:

where R is the radius of curvature, k is the conic constant, and the An are the nth order aspheric coefficients. The sign of R is determined by whether the center of curvature for the lens surface is located to the right or left of the lens' vertex; a positive R indicates that the center of curvature is located to the right of the vertex, while a negative R indicates that the center of curvature is located to the left of the vertex. For example, the radius of curvature for the left surface of a biconvex lens would be specified as positive, while the radius of curvature for its right surface would be specified as negative.

Aspheric Lens Coefficients

Due to the rotational symmetry of the lens surface, only even powers of Y are contained in the polynomial expansion above. The target values of the aspheric coefficients for each product can be found by clicking on the blue Info Icons in the tables below (info).

Aspheric Lens Metrology

Key Capabilities

  • In Process Metrology for All CNC Polished Aspheres
  • Non-Contact Interferometric and Non-Marring Profilometer Measurements
  • Test Datasheets Available for OEM Sales and Custom Orders

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Zygo Verifire™ Asphere Interferometer Metrology Station

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Zygo Verifire™ Asphere Interferometer Results

In order to ensure that the specifications for our CNC lenses are continuously met, we utilize a variety of advanced metrology equipment for in-process measurements of lens shape, surface roughness, and transmitted wavefront error. First, a non-contact Zygo Verifire™ Asphere Interferometer is utilized to verify the surface profile of the lenses. This instrument operates as a Fizeau interferometer by varying the distance between a reference flat or sphere (consistent with ISO 10110-12 standards) and the optic under test. Reflections from each optical surface produce an interference pattern that is recorded by the diagnostic, resulting in measurements of the low-spatial-frequency components of the aspheric surface profile. This machine is mostly used on our diffraction-limited asphere line given its superior 3D accuracy.

An example of a surface irregularity measurement performed by a Zygo Verifire™ interferometer (λ = 633 nm) is shown below. It contains interference fringes at points where the surface profile of the reference does not match the finished asphere. The relatively smooth fringe profile across the >22 mm clear aperture of the lens (shown by the lineouts in the bottom left) demonstrates the extremely low sag deviation and surface irregularity of our lenses. The lens tested here has an exceptionally low RMS surface irregularity of 0.428 fringes over its entire clear aperture and a significantly better value around the center of the lens.

Complementary measurements of each optic's high-spatial-frequency surface roughness are then made with a Zygo NewView™ white light interferometer. This device operates with a reference in one arm of the interferometer and the aspheric optic in the other. The length of one arm is varied, resulting in a white light interferogram that carries information about finer details of the optical surface. Once the surface profile of an optic has been verified, a Zygo GPI LC™ interferometer is utilized to make measurements of the transmitted wavefront error through the lens. This test ensures that the bulk of the optic is free from defects and the rear surface of the lens is flat.

To further improve our metrology capabilities, a Taylor Hobson PGI Dimension 5XL profilometer has also been added to our lens cell. This instrument makes precision contact measurements by dragging a small stylus over the surface of an optic, resulting in a complete characterization of the surface profile. This method is extremely versatile, and it can be applied to optics with a high numerical aperture or large diameter that are unsuitable for interferometric measurements. As a result, we are able to produce custom aspheric lenses with specifications that significantly exceed the capabilities of other optics manufacturers. This machine is mostly used for in process metrology of aspheric grinding.

While all machines are in use, a Taylor Hobson LUPHOScan profilometer has been utilized for the bulk of the metrology. This non-contact surface profiler uses interferometry to perform ultra-precise 3D surface measurements with high, reproducible accuracy. This machine can provide specific data on radius and surface irregularities for our aspheres due to its unique balance of speed and accuracy.

Taken together, these interferometric and contact measurements produce a complete set of three-dimensional data for each aspheric lens. This detailed quality control information allows us to manufacture the highest quality of aspheres and maintain our specifications with an extremely high degree of confidence.


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Taylor Hobson PGI Dimension 5XL Profilometer Measuring an Aspheric Lens

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A Taylor Hobson PGI Dimension 5XL Profilometer allows for the production of large-diameter and high-numerical-aperture aspheric lenses, such as the piece to the left of the instrument.

Custom Aspheric Lenses

Key Capabilities

  • Custom Lens Diameters, Focal Lengths, Substrates, Coatings, and Mounting Options
  • Enhanced Specifications and Tighter Tolerances than Stock Optics
  • Support for OEM Sales and Low-Quantity Special Orders

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A production lot of aspheric lenses that are ready for polishing at our headquarters in Newton, NJ.

Our in-house production capabilities allow us to offer a wide variety of custom CNC-polished and MRF-polished aspheric lenses. The diameter, focal length, conjugate ratio, substrate material, and coating of these optics can all be customized to meet the unique performance requirements of a given application. In addition, custom optics can be ordered with tighter tolerances and better specifications than our stock offerings. Because of our vertically integrated manufacturing process, these custom lenses are available for both OEM sales and individual low-quantity orders.

For the production of aspheric lenses, we have a CNC cell with Satisloh grinders and polishers, a QED Q-flex 100 for low wavefront error polishing, and a Satisloh C-25L for centration and custom shaping. The grinding and polishing machines allow us to manufacture both spherical and aspheric lenses with diameters from 2 mm (0.08") to 150 mm (5.91") (please contact Tech Sales with inquiries about even larger lenses). The centration machine can achieve centration down to 5 arcseconds, which is much tighter than the tolerance on most of our stock optics, and can also be used to create optics with custom shapes.

We are generally able to produce custom aspheric lenses with short lead times. For modifications to an existing part, delivery in one week is standard. For custom shapes and long focal length optics, a 6-8 week lead time is typical. To receive more information or a quote for a custom optic, please contact Tech Sales.


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An operator loading a Satisloh Centration Machine for stock aspheric optics and custom Lens Shapes.

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Satisloh Grinder for Aspheric Lenses

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QED Technologies Magnetorheological Finishing (MRF) Polisher

Our engineers are available to help manufacture optics for your application.

Customs are available in low quantities at prices that are comparable with our stock catalog products.
Please contact techsales@thorlabs.com with your custom optic requests.

N-BK7 Damage Threshold Specifications
Coating Designation
(Item # Suffix)
Damage Threshold
-A 7.5 J/cm2 at 532 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.504 mm
-B 7.5 J/cm2 at 810 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.144 mm
-C 7.5 J/cm2 at 1542 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.123 mm
S-LAH64 Damage Threshold Specifications
Coating Designation
(Item # Suffix)
Damage Threshold
-A 5 J/cm2 at 532 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.345 mm
-B 7.5 J/cm2 at 810 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.155 mm
-C 7.5 J/cm2 at 1064 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø1.00 mm
7.5 J/cm2 at 1542 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.246 mm

Damage Threshold Data for Thorlabs' AR-Coated N-BK7 and S-LAH64 Aspheres

The specifications to the right are measured data for Thorlabs' AR-coated, CNC-polished N-BK7 and S-LAH64 precision aspheric lenses. Damage threshold specifications are constant for a given coating type, regardless of the size of the lens.

 

Laser Induced Damage Threshold Tutorial

The following is a general overview of how laser induced damage thresholds are measured and how the values may be utilized in determining the appropriateness of an optic for a given application. When choosing optics, it is important to understand the Laser Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT) of the optics being used. The LIDT for an optic greatly depends on the type of laser you are using. Continuous wave (CW) lasers typically cause damage from thermal effects (absorption either in the coating or in the substrate). Pulsed lasers, on the other hand, often strip electrons from the lattice structure of an optic before causing thermal damage. Note that the guideline presented here assumes room temperature operation and optics in new condition (i.e., within scratch-dig spec, surface free of contamination, etc.). Because dust or other particles on the surface of an optic can cause damage at lower thresholds, we recommend keeping surfaces clean and free of debris. For more information on cleaning optics, please see our Optics Cleaning tutorial.

Testing Method

Thorlabs' LIDT testing is done in compliance with ISO/DIS 11254 and ISO 21254 specifications.

First, a low-power/energy beam is directed to the optic under test. The optic is exposed in 10 locations to this laser beam for 30 seconds (CW) or for a number of pulses (pulse repetition frequency specified). After exposure, the optic is examined by a microscope (~100X magnification) for any visible damage. The number of locations that are damaged at a particular power/energy level is recorded. Next, the power/energy is either increased or decreased and the optic is exposed at 10 new locations. This process is repeated until damage is observed. The damage threshold is then assigned to be the highest power/energy that the optic can withstand without causing damage. A histogram such as that below represents the testing of one BB1-E02 mirror.

LIDT metallic mirror
The photograph above is a protected aluminum-coated mirror after LIDT testing. In this particular test, it handled 0.43 J/cm2 (1064 nm, 10 ns pulse, 10 Hz, Ø1.000 mm) before damage.
LIDT BB1-E02
Example Test Data
Fluence # of Tested Locations Locations with Damage Locations Without Damage
1.50 J/cm2 10 0 10
1.75 J/cm2 10 0 10
2.00 J/cm2 10 0 10
2.25 J/cm2 10 1 9
3.00 J/cm2 10 1 9
5.00 J/cm2 10 9 1

According to the test, the damage threshold of the mirror was 2.00 J/cm2 (532 nm, 10 ns pulse, 10 Hz, Ø0.803 mm). Please keep in mind that these tests are performed on clean optics, as dirt and contamination can significantly lower the damage threshold of a component. While the test results are only representative of one coating run, Thorlabs specifies damage threshold values that account for coating variances.

Continuous Wave and Long-Pulse Lasers

When an optic is damaged by a continuous wave (CW) laser, it is usually due to the melting of the surface as a result of absorbing the laser's energy or damage to the optical coating (antireflection) [1]. Pulsed lasers with pulse lengths longer than 1 µs can be treated as CW lasers for LIDT discussions.

When pulse lengths are between 1 ns and 1 µs, laser-induced damage can occur either because of absorption or a dielectric breakdown (therefore, a user must check both CW and pulsed LIDT). Absorption is either due to an intrinsic property of the optic or due to surface irregularities; thus LIDT values are only valid for optics meeting or exceeding the surface quality specifications given by a manufacturer. While many optics can handle high power CW lasers, cemented (e.g., achromatic doublets) or highly absorptive (e.g., ND filters) optics tend to have lower CW damage thresholds. These lower thresholds are due to absorption or scattering in the cement or metal coating.

Linear Power Density Scaling

LIDT in linear power density vs. pulse length and spot size. For long pulses to CW, linear power density becomes a constant with spot size. This graph was obtained from [1].

Intensity Distribution

Pulsed lasers with high pulse repetition frequencies (PRF) may behave similarly to CW beams. Unfortunately, this is highly dependent on factors such as absorption and thermal diffusivity, so there is no reliable method for determining when a high PRF laser will damage an optic due to thermal effects. For beams with a high PRF both the average and peak powers must be compared to the equivalent CW power. Additionally, for highly transparent materials, there is little to no drop in the LIDT with increasing PRF.

In order to use the specified CW damage threshold of an optic, it is necessary to know the following:

  1. Wavelength of your laser
  2. Beam diameter of your beam (1/e2)
  3. Approximate intensity profile of your beam (e.g., Gaussian)
  4. Linear power density of your beam (total power divided by 1/e2 beam diameter)

Thorlabs expresses LIDT for CW lasers as a linear power density measured in W/cm. In this regime, the LIDT given as a linear power density can be applied to any beam diameter; one does not need to compute an adjusted LIDT to adjust for changes in spot size, as demonstrated by the graph to the right. Average linear power density can be calculated using the equation below. 

The calculation above assumes a uniform beam intensity profile. You must now consider hotspots in the beam or other non-uniform intensity profiles and roughly calculate a maximum power density. For reference, a Gaussian beam typically has a maximum power density that is twice that of the uniform beam (see lower right).

Now compare the maximum power density to that which is specified as the LIDT for the optic. If the optic was tested at a wavelength other than your operating wavelength, the damage threshold must be scaled appropriately. A good rule of thumb is that the damage threshold has a linear relationship with wavelength such that as you move to shorter wavelengths, the damage threshold decreases (i.e., a LIDT of 10 W/cm at 1310 nm scales to 5 W/cm at 655 nm):

CW Wavelength Scaling

While this rule of thumb provides a general trend, it is not a quantitative analysis of LIDT vs wavelength. In CW applications, for instance, damage scales more strongly with absorption in the coating and substrate, which does not necessarily scale well with wavelength. While the above procedure provides a good rule of thumb for LIDT values, please contact Tech Support if your wavelength is different from the specified LIDT wavelength. If your power density is less than the adjusted LIDT of the optic, then the optic should work for your application. 

Please note that we have a buffer built in between the specified damage thresholds online and the tests which we have done, which accommodates variation between batches. Upon request, we can provide individual test information and a testing certificate. The damage analysis will be carried out on a similar optic (customer's optic will not be damaged). Testing may result in additional costs or lead times. Contact Tech Support for more information.

Pulsed Lasers

As previously stated, pulsed lasers typically induce a different type of damage to the optic than CW lasers. Pulsed lasers often do not heat the optic enough to damage it; instead, pulsed lasers produce strong electric fields capable of inducing dielectric breakdown in the material. Unfortunately, it can be very difficult to compare the LIDT specification of an optic to your laser. There are multiple regimes in which a pulsed laser can damage an optic and this is based on the laser's pulse length. The highlighted columns in the table below outline the relevant pulse lengths for our specified LIDT values.

Pulses shorter than 10-9 s cannot be compared to our specified LIDT values with much reliability. In this ultra-short-pulse regime various mechanics, such as multiphoton-avalanche ionization, take over as the predominate damage mechanism [2]. In contrast, pulses between 10-7 s and 10-4 s may cause damage to an optic either because of dielectric breakdown or thermal effects. This means that both CW and pulsed damage thresholds must be compared to the laser beam to determine whether the optic is suitable for your application.

Pulse Duration t < 10-9 s 10-9 < t < 10-7 s 10-7 < t < 10-4 s t > 10-4 s
Damage Mechanism Avalanche Ionization Dielectric Breakdown Dielectric Breakdown or Thermal Thermal
Relevant Damage Specification No Comparison (See Above) Pulsed Pulsed and CW CW

When comparing an LIDT specified for a pulsed laser to your laser, it is essential to know the following:

Energy Density Scaling

LIDT in energy density vs. pulse length and spot size. For short pulses, energy density becomes a constant with spot size. This graph was obtained from [1].

  1. Wavelength of your laser
  2. Energy density of your beam (total energy divided by 1/e2 area)
  3. Pulse length of your laser
  4. Pulse repetition frequency (prf) of your laser
  5. Beam diameter of your laser (1/e2 )
  6. Approximate intensity profile of your beam (e.g., Gaussian)

The energy density of your beam should be calculated in terms of J/cm2. The graph to the right shows why expressing the LIDT as an energy density provides the best metric for short pulse sources. In this regime, the LIDT given as an energy density can be applied to any beam diameter; one does not need to compute an adjusted LIDT to adjust for changes in spot size. This calculation assumes a uniform beam intensity profile. You must now adjust this energy density to account for hotspots or other nonuniform intensity profiles and roughly calculate a maximum energy density. For reference a Gaussian beam typically has a maximum energy density that is twice that of the 1/e2 beam.

Now compare the maximum energy density to that which is specified as the LIDT for the optic. If the optic was tested at a wavelength other than your operating wavelength, the damage threshold must be scaled appropriately [3]. A good rule of thumb is that the damage threshold has an inverse square root relationship with wavelength such that as you move to shorter wavelengths, the damage threshold decreases (i.e., a LIDT of 1 J/cm2 at 1064 nm scales to 0.7 J/cm2 at 532 nm):

Pulse Wavelength Scaling

You now have a wavelength-adjusted energy density, which you will use in the following step.

Beam diameter is also important to know when comparing damage thresholds. While the LIDT, when expressed in units of J/cm², scales independently of spot size; large beam sizes are more likely to illuminate a larger number of defects which can lead to greater variances in the LIDT [4]. For data presented here, a <1 mm beam size was used to measure the LIDT. For beams sizes greater than 5 mm, the LIDT (J/cm2) will not scale independently of beam diameter due to the larger size beam exposing more defects.

The pulse length must now be compensated for. The longer the pulse duration, the more energy the optic can handle. For pulse widths between 1 - 100 ns, an approximation is as follows:

Pulse Length Scaling

Use this formula to calculate the Adjusted LIDT for an optic based on your pulse length. If your maximum energy density is less than this adjusted LIDT maximum energy density, then the optic should be suitable for your application. Keep in mind that this calculation is only used for pulses between 10-9 s and 10-7 s. For pulses between 10-7 s and 10-4 s, the CW LIDT must also be checked before deeming the optic appropriate for your application.

Please note that we have a buffer built in between the specified damage thresholds online and the tests which we have done, which accommodates variation between batches. Upon request, we can provide individual test information and a testing certificate. Contact Tech Support for more information.


[1] R. M. Wood, Optics and Laser Tech. 29, 517 (1998).
[2] Roger M. Wood, Laser-Induced Damage of Optical Materials (Institute of Physics Publishing, Philadelphia, PA, 2003).
[3] C. W. Carr et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 91, 127402 (2003).
[4] N. Bloembergen, Appl. Opt. 12, 661 (1973).

In order to illustrate the process of determining whether a given laser system will damage an optic, a number of example calculations of laser induced damage threshold are given below. For assistance with performing similar calculations, we provide a spreadsheet calculator that can be downloaded by clicking the button to the right. To use the calculator, enter the specified LIDT value of the optic under consideration and the relevant parameters of your laser system in the green boxes. The spreadsheet will then calculate a linear power density for CW and pulsed systems, as well as an energy density value for pulsed systems. These values are used to calculate adjusted, scaled LIDT values for the optics based on accepted scaling laws. This calculator assumes a Gaussian beam profile, so a correction factor must be introduced for other beam shapes (uniform, etc.). The LIDT scaling laws are determined from empirical relationships; their accuracy is not guaranteed. Remember that absorption by optics or coatings can significantly reduce LIDT in some spectral regions. These LIDT values are not valid for ultrashort pulses less than one nanosecond in duration.

Intensity Distribution
A Gaussian beam profile has about twice the maximum intensity of a uniform beam profile.

CW Laser Example
Suppose that a CW laser system at 1319 nm produces a 0.5 W Gaussian beam that has a 1/e2 diameter of 10 mm. A naive calculation of the average linear power density of this beam would yield a value of 0.5 W/cm, given by the total power divided by the beam diameter:

CW Wavelength Scaling

However, the maximum power density of a Gaussian beam is about twice the maximum power density of a uniform beam, as shown in the graph to the right. Therefore, a more accurate determination of the maximum linear power density of the system is 1 W/cm.

An AC127-030-C achromatic doublet lens has a specified CW LIDT of 350 W/cm, as tested at 1550 nm. CW damage threshold values typically scale directly with the wavelength of the laser source, so this yields an adjusted LIDT value:

CW Wavelength Scaling

The adjusted LIDT value of 350 W/cm x (1319 nm / 1550 nm) = 298 W/cm is significantly higher than the calculated maximum linear power density of the laser system, so it would be safe to use this doublet lens for this application.

Pulsed Nanosecond Laser Example: Scaling for Different Pulse Durations
Suppose that a pulsed Nd:YAG laser system is frequency tripled to produce a 10 Hz output, consisting of 2 ns output pulses at 355 nm, each with 1 J of energy, in a Gaussian beam with a 1.9 cm beam diameter (1/e2). The average energy density of each pulse is found by dividing the pulse energy by the beam area:

Pulse Energy Density

As described above, the maximum energy density of a Gaussian beam is about twice the average energy density. So, the maximum energy density of this beam is ~0.7 J/cm2.

The energy density of the beam can be compared to the LIDT values of 1 J/cm2 and 3.5 J/cm2 for a BB1-E01 broadband dielectric mirror and an NB1-K08 Nd:YAG laser line mirror, respectively. Both of these LIDT values, while measured at 355 nm, were determined with a 10 ns pulsed laser at 10 Hz. Therefore, an adjustment must be applied for the shorter pulse duration of the system under consideration. As described on the previous tab, LIDT values in the nanosecond pulse regime scale with the square root of the laser pulse duration:

Pulse Length Scaling

This adjustment factor results in LIDT values of 0.45 J/cm2 for the BB1-E01 broadband mirror and 1.6 J/cm2 for the Nd:YAG laser line mirror, which are to be compared with the 0.7 J/cm2 maximum energy density of the beam. While the broadband mirror would likely be damaged by the laser, the more specialized laser line mirror is appropriate for use with this system.

Pulsed Nanosecond Laser Example: Scaling for Different Wavelengths
Suppose that a pulsed laser system emits 10 ns pulses at 2.5 Hz, each with 100 mJ of energy at 1064 nm in a 16 mm diameter beam (1/e2) that must be attenuated with a neutral density filter. For a Gaussian output, these specifications result in a maximum energy density of 0.1 J/cm2. The damage threshold of an NDUV10A Ø25 mm, OD 1.0, reflective neutral density filter is 0.05 J/cm2 for 10 ns pulses at 355 nm, while the damage threshold of the similar NE10A absorptive filter is 10 J/cm2 for 10 ns pulses at 532 nm. As described on the previous tab, the LIDT value of an optic scales with the square root of the wavelength in the nanosecond pulse regime:

Pulse Wavelength Scaling

This scaling gives adjusted LIDT values of 0.08 J/cm2 for the reflective filter and 14 J/cm2 for the absorptive filter. In this case, the absorptive filter is the best choice in order to avoid optical damage.

Pulsed Microsecond Laser Example
Consider a laser system that produces 1 µs pulses, each containing 150 µJ of energy at a repetition rate of 50 kHz, resulting in a relatively high duty cycle of 5%. This system falls somewhere between the regimes of CW and pulsed laser induced damage, and could potentially damage an optic by mechanisms associated with either regime. As a result, both CW and pulsed LIDT values must be compared to the properties of the laser system to ensure safe operation.

If this relatively long-pulse laser emits a Gaussian 12.7 mm diameter beam (1/e2) at 980 nm, then the resulting output has a linear power density of 5.9 W/cm and an energy density of 1.2 x 10-4 J/cm2 per pulse. This can be compared to the LIDT values for a WPQ10E-980 polymer zero-order quarter-wave plate, which are 5 W/cm for CW radiation at 810 nm and 5 J/cm2 for a 10 ns pulse at 810 nm. As before, the CW LIDT of the optic scales linearly with the laser wavelength, resulting in an adjusted CW value of 6 W/cm at 980 nm. On the other hand, the pulsed LIDT scales with the square root of the laser wavelength and the square root of the pulse duration, resulting in an adjusted value of 55 J/cm2 for a 1 µs pulse at 980 nm. The pulsed LIDT of the optic is significantly greater than the energy density of the laser pulse, so individual pulses will not damage the wave plate. However, the large average linear power density of the laser system may cause thermal damage to the optic, much like a high-power CW beam.


Posted Comments:
Twichell  (posted 2016-07-04 09:30:10.7)
The transmission plots stop near the edge of the pass-band for, say, the B coating. Sometimes, the out-of-band performance is of concern. I understand you do not control for ant performance objectives outside the AR region, but a plot of a number of coating runs and/or position in the coating machine would be handy, just to give some feel for out-of-band characteristics. Quantitative work requires either custom coating or measurement of a specific optic. If you have a plot of the B coating out to 400 nm. I would appreciate it. Perhaps add an app note on 'out-of-band coating characteristics' would be helpful to others as well. Many thanks Jon Twichell
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Mounted CNC-Polished Aspheric Lenses, Uncoated

Item # Info Substrate Optic
Diameter
EFLb NAc Clear Aperturea WDb,d DW nb f/#b,e Thread Suggested
Spanner
Wrenchf
Collimation
(Aspheric Side)
Focusing
(Plano Side)
AL1210M info S-LAH64 Ø12.5 mm 10.0 mm 0.55 Ø10.8 mm Ø9.4 mm 4.8 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM05
(0.535"-40)
SPW801
AL1225M info N-BK7 25.0 mm 0.23 Ø10.8 mm Ø10.0 mm 19.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL2520M info S-LAH64 Ø25.0 mm 20.0 mm 0.54 Ø22.5 mm Ø20.4 mm 12.0 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM1
(1.035"-40)
SPW801
AL2550M info N-BK7 50.0 mm 0.23 Ø22.7 mm Ø21.6 mm 42.3 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL5040M info S-LAH64 Ø50.0 mm 40.0 mm 0.55 Ø46.0 mm Ø41.7 mm 27.6 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM2
(2.035"-40)
SPW801
AL50100M info N-BK7 100.0 mm 0.23 Ø47.0 mm Ø45.6 mm 89.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
  • Clear aperture is specified for the side of the lens opposite the incident light (e.g., on the plano side for focusing applications). This difference results from the refraction caused by the lens.
  • EFL, WD, n, and f/# are specified at the design wavelength.
  • NA is defined as the sine of the angle of the marginal ray.
  • See the reference drawing tab in the info icons above for details.
  • Obtained by dividing the focal length of the lens by its diameter. This is an underestimate of the true f/# since the usable portion of the lens is constrained by the clear aperture.
  • Used for removing the lens from the housing. Standard spanner wrenches with a guide chamfer may scratch these lenses due to their high curvature.

EFL = Effective Focal Length
NA = Numerical Aperture

WD = Working Distance
DW = Design Wavelength

n = Refractive Index

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
AL1210M Support Documentation
AL1210MØ12.5 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=10 mm, NA=0.55, Uncoated
$230.46
Today
AL1225M Support Documentation
AL1225MØ12.5 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=25 mm, NA=0.23, Uncoated
$217.39
Today
AL2520M Support Documentation
AL2520MØ25 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=20 mm, NA=0.54, Uncoated
$289.85
Today
AL2550M Support Documentation
AL2550MØ25 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=50 mm, NA=0.23, Uncoated
$277.98
Today
AL5040M Support Documentation
AL5040MØ50 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=40 mm, NA=0.55, Uncoated
$536.95
Today
AL50100M Support Documentation
AL50100MØ50 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=100 mm, NA=0.24, Uncoated
$536.95
Today
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Mounted CNC-Polished Aspheric Lenses, AR Coated: 350 - 700 nm

Item #InfoSubstrateOptic
Diameter
EFLbNAcAR Coating
Ranged
Clear ApertureaWDb,eDWnbf/#b,fThreadSuggested
Spanner
Wrenchg
Collimation
(Aspheric Side)
Focusing
(Plano Side)
AL1210M-A info S-LAH64 Ø12.5 mm 10.0 mm 0.55 350 - 700 nm Ø10.8 mm Ø9.4 mm 4.8 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM05
(0.535"-40)
SPW801
AL1225M-A info N-BK7 25.0 mm 0.23 350 - 700 nm Ø10.8 mm Ø10.0 mm 19.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL2520M-A info S-LAH64 Ø25.0 mm 20.0 mm 0.54 350 - 700 nm Ø22.5 mm Ø20.4 mm 12.0 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM1
(1.035"-40)
SPW801
AL2550M-A info N-BK7 50.0 mm 0.23 350 - 700 nm Ø22.7 mm Ø21.6 mm 42.3 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL5040M-A info S-LAH64 Ø50.0 mm 40.0 mm 0.55 350 - 700 nm Ø46.0 mm Ø41.7 mm 27.6 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM2
(2.035"-40)
SPW801
AL50100M-A info N-BK7 100.0 mm 0.23 350 - 700 nm Ø47.0 mm Ø45.6 mm 89.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
  • Clear aperture is specified for the side of the lens opposite the incident light (e.g., on the plano side for focusing applications). This difference results from the refraction caused by the lens.
  • EFL, WD, n, and f/# are specified at the design wavelength.
  • NA is defined as the sine of the angle of the marginal ray.
  • Ravg < 0.5% per each coated surface over the specified AR coating range.
  • See the reference drawing tab in the info icons above for details.
  • Obtained by dividing the focal length of the lens by its diameter. This is an underestimate of the true f/# since the usable portion of the lens is constrained by the clear aperture.
  • Used for removing the lens from the housing. Standard spanner wrenches with a guide chamfer may scratch these lenses due to their high curvature.

EFL = Effective Focal Length
NA = Numerical Aperture

WD = Working Distance
DW = Design Wavelength

n = Refractive Index

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
AL1210M-A Support Documentation
AL1210M-AØ12.5 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=10 mm, NA=0.55, ARC: 350-700 nm
$242.33
Today
AL1225M-A Support Documentation
AL1225M-AØ12.5 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=25 mm, NA=0.23, ARC: 350-700 nm
$242.33
Today
AL2520M-A Support Documentation
AL2520M-AØ25 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=20 mm, NA=0.54, ARC: 350-700 nm
$302.92
Today
AL2550M-A Support Documentation
AL2550M-AØ25 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=50 mm, NA=0.23, ARC: 350-700 nm
$302.92
Today
AL5040M-A Support Documentation
AL5040M-AØ50 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=40 mm, NA=0.55, ARC: 350-700 nm
$551.19
Today
AL50100M-A Support Documentation
AL50100M-AØ50 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=100 mm, NA=0.24, ARC: 350-700 nm
$563.07
Today
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Mounted CNC-Polished Aspheric Lenses, AR Coated: 650 - 1050 nm

Item #InfoSubstrateOptic
Diameter
EFLbNAcAR Coating
Ranged
Clear ApertureaWDb,eDWnbf/#b,fThreadSuggested
Spanner
Wrenchg
Collimation
(Aspheric Side)
Focusing
(Plano Side)
AL1210M-B info S-LAH64 Ø12.5 mm 10.0 mm 0.55 650 - 1050 nm Ø10.8 mm Ø9.4 mm 4.8 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM05
(0.535"-40)
SPW801
AL1225M-B info N-BK7 25.0 mm 0.23 650 - 1050 nm Ø10.8 mm Ø10.0 mm 19.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL2520M-B info S-LAH64 Ø25.0 mm 20.0 mm 0.54 650 - 1050 nm Ø22.5 mm Ø20.4 mm 12.0 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM1
(1.035"-40)
SPW801
AL2550M-B info N-BK7 50.0 mm 0.23 650 - 1050 nm Ø22.7 mm Ø21.6 mm 42.3 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL5040M-B info S-LAH64 Ø50.0 mm 40.0 mm 0.55 650 - 1050 nm Ø46.0 mm Ø41.7 mm 27.6 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM2
(2.035"-40)
SPW801
AL50100M-B info N-BK7 100.0 mm 0.23 650 - 1050 nm Ø47.0 mm Ø45.6 mm 89.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
  • Clear aperture is specified for the side of the lens opposite the incident light (e.g., on the plano side for focusing applications). This difference results from the refraction caused by the lens.
  • EFL, WD, n, and f/# are specified at the design wavelength.
  • NA is defined as the sine of the angle of the marginal ray.
  • Ravg < 0.5% per each coated surface over the specified AR coating range.
  • See the reference drawing tab in the info icons above for details.
  • Obtained by dividing the focal length of the lens by its diameter. This is an underestimate of the true f/# since the usable portion of the lens is constrained by the clear aperture.
  • Used for removing the lens from the housing. Standard spanner wrenches with a guide chamfer may scratch these lenses due to their high curvature.

EFL = Effective Focal Length
NA = Numerical Aperture

WD = Working Distance
DW = Design Wavelength

n = Refractive Index

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
AL1210M-B Support Documentation
AL1210M-BØ12.5 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=10 mm, NA=0.55, ARC: 650-1050 nm
$242.33
Today
AL1225M-B Support Documentation
AL1225M-BØ12.5 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=25 mm, NA=0.23, ARC: 650-1050 nm
$242.33
Today
AL2520M-B Support Documentation
AL2520M-BØ25 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=20 mm, NA=0.54, ARC: 650-1050 nm
$302.92
Today
AL2550M-B Support Documentation
AL2550M-BØ25 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=50 mm, NA=0.23, ARC: 650-1050 nm
$302.92
Today
AL5040M-B Support Documentation
AL5040M-BØ50 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=40 mm, NA=0.55, ARC: 650-1050 nm
$551.19
Today
AL50100M-B Support Documentation
AL50100M-BØ50 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=100 mm, NA=0.24, ARC: 650-1050 nm
$563.07
Lead Time
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Mounted CNC-Polished Aspheric Lenses, AR Coated: 1050 - 1700 nm

Item #InfoSubstrateOptic
Diameter
EFLbNAcAR Coating
Ranged
Clear ApertureaWDb,eDWnbf/#b,fThreadSuggested
Spanner
Wrenchg
Collimation
(Aspheric Side)
Focusing
(Plano Side)
AL1210M-C info S-LAH64 Ø12.5 mm 10.0 mm 0.55 1050 - 1700 nm Ø10.8 mm Ø9.4 mm 4.8 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM05
(0.535"-40)
SPW801
AL1225M-C info N-BK7 25.0 mm 0.23 1050 - 1700 nm Ø10.8 mm Ø10.0 mm 19.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL2520M-C info S-LAH64 Ø25.0 mm 20.0 mm 0.54 1050 - 1700 nm Ø22.5 mm Ø20.4 mm 12.0 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM1
(1.035"-40)
SPW801
AL2550M-C info N-BK7 50.0 mm 0.23 1050 - 1700 nm Ø22.7 mm Ø21.6 mm 42.3 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
AL5040M-C info S-LAH64 Ø50.0 mm 40.0 mm 0.55 1050 - 1700 nm Ø46.0 mm Ø41.7 mm 27.6 mm 780 nm 1.788 0.80 SM2
(2.035"-40)
SPW801
AL50100M-C info N-BK7 100.0 mm 0.23 1050 - 1700 nm Ø47.0 mm Ø45.6 mm 89.6 mm 780 nm 1.517 2.00
  • Clear aperture is specified for the side of the lens opposite the incident light (e.g., on the plano side for focusing applications). This difference results from the refraction caused by the lens.
  • EFL, WD, n, and f/# are specified at the design wavelength.
  • NA is defined as the sine of the angle of the marginal ray.
  • Ravg < 0.5% per each coated surface over the specified AR coating range.
  • See the reference drawing tab in the info icons above for details.
  • Obtained by dividing the focal length of the lens by its diameter. This is an underestimate of the true f/# since the usable portion of the lens is constrained by the clear aperture.
  • Used for removing the lens from the housing. Standard spanner wrenches with a guide chamfer may scratch these lenses due to their high curvature.

EFL = Effective Focal Length
NA = Numerical Aperture

WD = Working Distance
DW = Design Wavelength

n = Refractive Index

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
AL1210M-C Support Documentation
AL1210M-CØ12.5 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=10 mm, NA=0.55, ARC: 1050-1700 nm
$242.33
Today
AL1225M-C Support Documentation
AL1225M-CØ12.5 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=25 mm, NA=0.23, ARC: 1050-1700 nm
$242.33
Today
AL2520M-C Support Documentation
AL2520M-CØ25 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=20 mm, NA=0.54, ARC: 1050-1700 nm
$302.92
Today
AL2550M-C Support Documentation
AL2550M-CØ25 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=50 mm, NA=0.23, ARC: 1050-1700 nm
$302.92
Lead Time
AL5040M-C Support Documentation
AL5040M-CØ50 mm S-LAH64 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=40 mm, NA=0.55, ARC: 1050-1700 nm
$551.19
Today
AL50100M-C Support Documentation
AL50100M-CØ50 mm N-BK7 Mounted Aspheric Lens, f=100 mm, NA=0.24, ARC: 1050-1700 nm
$563.07
Lead Time