Infra-Red Optics

Infrared (PGM, SPDT, Machine)

Rochester Precision Optics designs and manufactures high performance mid and long wave infrared aspherical optical lenses and elements utilizing Precision Molding and Diamond Turning technologies. Molded Optir Optics combine the benefits of moldable infrared chalcogenide glasses and RPO’s precision molding technologies providing economical solutions for infrared optics. Our 110,000 square foot facility is capable of producing infrared optics for prototypes to large quantities quickly and cost effectively.


Rochester Precision Optics has extensive experience and equipment for diamond turning and deterministic grinding of many materials useful in the infrared. This expertise is offered as a build-to-print service and provides prototypes to high-volume production. Our diamond turning facility is staffed with toolmakers with 15+ years of experience in diamond turning and optical tool surface generation. Infrared optics are available in a broad range of diameters from a few millimeters to 60mm with errors of less than 1/10 λ.


From rapid prototype to high-volume production, RPO leads in IR optics. Standard and custom designs are just the start, r more information or contact us to discuss your needs.


Infrared Molded Glass Aspheres

Infrared Molded Glass Aspheric Optics combine the benefits of moldable infrared chalcogenide glasses and the expertise of Rochester Precision Optics' molding technology. Due to the rapid growth of the infrared industry and the near universal use of germanium in IR systems, the demand for germanium has greatly increased. This demand has resulted in higher prices and limited supply.


Molding allows volume optical manufacturing without the high cost of capital equipment and skilled labor. IR glass offers excellent part to part uniformity, with lower manufacturing and material costs. The glass also offers a low thermal change in refractive index (32.2 X 1O-6/ºC for IRG26), which is a benefit to optical systems designers in avoiding thermal defocusing.


Diamond Turning

RPO’s Precision Machining Group is comprised of individuals that have 10 to 25 years of experience in diamond grinding and polishing of all types of optical surfaces including spherical, aspherical, acylindrical and freeform optics to form errors of less than 1/10th λ accuracies. Our diamond turning facility is staffed with toolmakers with 15+ years of experience in diamond turning and optical tool surface generation.