ZOLIX PHK Series Optical Post Mounting Kits

Overview

The ZOLIX PHK Series Optical Post Mounting Kits are precision-engineered modular assembly systems designed for rapid, repeatable, and mechanically stable optical setup in research laboratories, teaching environments, and industrial alignment applications. Built upon standardized metric threading (M4 and M6), these kits provide a complete ecosystem of posts, post holders, base plates, kinematic mounts, and adaptors—enabling users to construct robust optical benches, beam paths, and multi-axis positioning platforms without custom machining. Unlike single-component mounts, the PHK series integrates mechanical compatibility across all subcomponents: height-adjustable post holders (PHSH series), orthogonal and crossed kinematic mounts (PHCP-1/PHCP-2), universal goniometric mounts (PHUC-1), and C-clamp-style fasteners (PPCC25, NCC20) — all conforming to ISO 2768-mK general tolerances and DIN 912 socket-head cap screw specifications. The system supports both coarse and fine positional control, with typical angular repeatability ≤ ±0.5° and axial runout < 10 µm per 100 mm post extension under 5 N axial load.

Key Features

• Two scalable configurations: PHK12-20 for Ø12 mm stainless steel posts (e.g., PHSP12-x series) and PHK25-16 for Ø25 mm heavy-duty posts (e.g., PPE25–PPE100), ensuring stiffness-to-mass optimization across optical path lengths
• Full interchangeability between ZOLIX optical mounts (e.g., PHM, PHF, PHR series) and third-party components adhering to standard M4/M6 thread pitches (0.7 mm and 1.0 mm respectively)
• Integrated anti-rotation design: PHSP12C locating clamps and PPB15 base plates feature dual-keyway slots and set-screw locking to prevent torsional drift during thermal cycling or vibration exposure
• Corrosion-resistant hardware: All screws, clamps, and base plates are passivated 304 stainless steel or black-oxide coated carbon steel, rated for >500 hours salt-spray resistance per ASTM B117
• Tool-free reconfiguration: ACSF-series adaptor screws (M4–M4, M4–M6, M6–M6) allow seamless integration of legacy or hybrid mounting systems without thread adapters or shims
• Calibrated storage: Each kit ships in a molded EVA-lined carry case with engraved compartment labels, serialized inventory tracking, and ISO-compliant labeling (EN 980, EN 1041)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PHK series is compatible with standard optomechanical components from Thorlabs, Newport, and Edmund Optics when used with appropriate thread adapters. All structural components meet RoHS 2011/65/EU and REACH SVHC criteria. Mechanical performance data—including static load capacity (≥250 N vertical, ≥120 N lateral per PHSH-4 holder), thermal expansion coefficient (17.3 × 10⁻⁶ /°C for 304 SS), and surface flatness (≤8 µm over 100 × 100 mm for BP-7/BP-8 base plates)—are documented in the manufacturer’s technical compliance dossier. The kits support GLP-aligned lab documentation workflows via optional QR-coded component tags (available upon request), enabling traceability per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 7.7.

Software & Data Management

While inherently mechanical, the PHK system integrates with ZOLIX’s free LabMount Manager software (v2.4+), which provides digital bill-of-materials (BOM) generation, 3D assembly validation (STEP/IGES export), and tolerance stack-up simulation for multi-stage optical trains. Users may import CAD models of their optical elements (lenses, mirrors, detectors) and simulate mechanical interference, gravitational sag (using built-in Euler–Bernoulli beam deflection solver), and modal resonance frequencies (up to 1.2 kHz for fully assembled PHK25-16 bench). Audit logs, revision history, and exportable PDF build reports comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed on validated Windows OS platforms.

Applications

• Alignment of laser cavities, interferometers, and fiber coupling stages requiring sub-milliradian angular stability
• Modular construction of undergraduate optics labs (e.g., Michelson, Fabry–Pérot, and diffraction experiments) with standardized safety-rated mounting interfaces
• Integration into automated optical inspection stations where PHUC-1 universal mounts enable motorized tip/tilt adjustment via stepper-driven actuators
• Support structures for vacuum-compatible optical tables (when paired with non-outgassing PPB15 bases and M4 Vespel® washers)
• Rapid prototyping of free-space quantum optics setups, including polarization control trains and spatial light modulator mounts

FAQ

Are PHK series components compatible with metric-threaded optical rails (e.g., 30 mm or 60 mm breadboards)?
Yes — BP-7 and BP-8 base plates include dual-row M6 tapped holes on 25 mm and 50 mm pitch patterns, aligning with standard rail spacing per ISO 8015. Optional rail adapter plates (sold separately) support 30 mm T-slot and 60 mm hole-pattern breadboards.
What is the maximum recommended post height for PHK12-20 before lateral instability occurs?
For static loads ≤10 N, maximum stable height is 300 mm using PHSP12-5 (Ø12 × 300 mm) with PHSH-4 holders tightened to 1.2 N·m torque. Dynamic applications require finite-element analysis; contact ZOLIX Application Engineering for modal analysis reports.
Do PHK kits include calibration certificates for dimensional accuracy?
Standard kits ship with factory inspection reports (per ISO 10012) covering thread pitch, diameter tolerance, and surface finish. NIST-traceable calibration certificates are available as an add-on service (lead time: 10 business days).
Can PHK25-16 components be used in cleanroom environments (ISO Class 5)?
Yes — all PHK25-16 stainless steel parts meet ISO 14644-1 particle shedding requirements when cleaned per IEST-STD-CC1246D Level 100. Non-metallic accessories (e.g., EVA case lining) are excluded from cleanroom use.
Is technical support available for custom mounting configurations?
ZOLIX offers complimentary pre-purchase mechanical layout review and post-purchase assembly troubleshooting via email (support@zolix.com.cn) and remote screen-sharing sessions using TeamViewer, with response SLA of ≤4 business hours during EST working hours.