Optical Cleaner

Optical Cleaner

Many optical components are coated with precious materials that can be damaged by improper handling and cleaning.optical cleaner This can impair optical performance and reduce the usable lifetime of the component.

To avoid damage, clean your optics using a solvent that does not attack the coating and do not wipe it too vigorously.optical cleaner A good optical cleaner is safe to use, dries quickly and leaves no residue. The solvent can also be used as a disinfectant to kill any microorganisms that may be present on the surface of your glass, prism or mirror. It is recommended that you use gloves not only to protect your skin from acetone and other solvents, but also to prevent any contaminant, such as fat from your fingers, from being transferred to the optical surface.

A variety of cleaning products are available, including reagent-grade alcohol, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), methylene chloride (MEC) and acetone.optical cleaner The latter three are potentially toxic, and all can damage the optical substrate. These compounds are also toxic to the respiratory system and skin, and can cause discoloration of the optics.

Various nontoxic and safe solvents have been developed to clean optical surfaces.optical cleaner These are usually formulated to be nonflammable, and are often hermetically sealed, to ensure that the high-purity cleaning fluid isn't contaminated. They are also dispensed in metered amounts, to reduce waste and to make sure that the correct amount of cleaning fluid is used. In addition, they won't spill if the can is accidentally tipped over.

Before handling an optical component, it is a good idea to inspect it under magnification to check for any abrasive material that could scratch the surface. Then, the optic should be placed on a clean surface. It is important to avoid exposing the optic to any airborne contaminants, such as dust or smoke, before it is cleaned, because these will settle on the optical surface and be hard to remove.

The best way to clean an optical surface is to use a low-lint tissue or a cloth that has been pre-moistened with an appropriate cleaning solvent, such as acetone, methanol or a mix of these. Dry tissue or a t-shirt will scratch the surface, so only use low-lint tissues specially manufactured for this purpose, ideally containing a low level of fibers that can be dissolved by the cleaning solvent.

To clean the mirrors of our Model 515x and 581x beamsplitter cubes, fold a piece of lens tissue so that it is as wide as the optical surface. Wet this "brush" with a small amount of the cleaning solvent and gently drag it across the surface of the optic. This will remove any grease or oils, and will also dissolve most of the dirt on the optical surface. Be careful not to get any solvent into the gap between the two prisms that make up the cube, as this will break their bond. If the gap is very dirty, it will be easier to clean if you can lay the cube flat and apply gentle pressure with a hemostat or tweezers.

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