How to choose the right optical lens

When selecting coated optical lenses, understanding the performance of all aspects helps to maximize the performance of the optical system. Small changes in optical parameters usually have a significant impact on the evaluation of performance and cost.

First, solve the "what do I want to accomplish?" This problem. It is essential to determine the correct optical lens parameters and ensure that the specifications of the optical system are met while maximizing performance and cost. In most cases, we can use this information to provide the best and most economical solution for your optical lens requirements. Whether you choose to purchase our standard optical lenses or need to customize them, if you are not familiar with the coating technology and the parameter knowledge of optical lenses, our optical engineers will help you choose the correct optical lenses and coating scheme for each specific application.

Then, when selecting optical lenses, we should determine which band of products are available. Our optical lenses are usually determined by the reflection or transmission requirements of light at a specific wavelength. In the spectral range, our optical lenses can be divided into three categories: ultraviolet (UV) lenses, visible light (VIS) lenses and infrared (IR) lenses.

Ultraviolet (UV): the span is about 200-400 nm. It is usually used to cure coatings, adhesives and printing inks. It is also used in various treatment procedures and the manufacture of circuit boards. With the progress of technology, the use of ultraviolet light is also expanding.

Visible light (VIS): Vis Spectrum corresponds to those wavelengths that can be detected by human eyes, about 400-700 nm. Many telescopes, cameras, optical projectors, etc. operate in this range.

Infrared (IR): infrared light can be subdivided into near, medium and far infrared radiation, working in the spectral wavelength range of 700 nm to 2500 nm. Infrared technology is usually used in military thermal imaging tasks, such as surveillance, tracking and night vision. Infrared technology is also used in machine vision and spectroscopy. Thermal mirrors are commonly used in many industries to redirect heat by reflecting infrared radiation.

Identifying the desired wavelength region typically derived from the application will help determine the need for single or multi-layer coatings. Multilayer coatings can work in a larger spectral range, while the wavelength range of single layer is very limited.