HTDM-13 Differential Micrometer Translation Stage, 13 mm Total Travel with 0.2 mm Fine Adjustment Range

Overview

The HTDM-13 Differential Micrometer Translation Stage is a precision mechanical positioning device engineered for sub-micron repeatability in optical alignment applications. Based on the differential screw principle—where two coaxial threads of slightly different pitches (e.g., 0.5 mm and 0.48 mm) are engaged simultaneously—the stage converts coarse rotation into highly attenuated linear displacement. This design yields a mechanical reduction ratio of approximately 25:1, enabling 0.2 mm of fine travel over a full 360° rotation of the front knob, while retaining a full 13 mm gross travel range via the primary lead screw. The stage is constructed from anodized aluminum alloy with hardened stainless steel screws and precision-ground brass nut assemblies to minimize backlash (< 2 µm) and thermal drift. It is intended for integration into optical tables, kinematic mounts, and laser cavity alignment systems where deterministic, non-motorized, tactile control is required under vacuum-compatible or EMI-sensitive conditions.

Key Features

• Dual-range motion architecture: 13 mm coarse translation + 0.2 mm high-resolution differential fine adjustment
• Backlash-compensated dual-screw mechanism with preloaded brass-on-steel thread interface
• Graduated scale ring with 0.002 mm resolution markings (1 division = 2 µm), readable under collimated illumination
• Standard SM1 (1.035″-40) internal threading and M6 external tapped holes for modular integration with Thorlabs-, Newport-, and custom optical mounts
• Zero-reference lockable stop with knurled locking collar to preserve positional memory during instrument reconfiguration
• No electrical components: suitable for ultra-low-noise interferometry, cryogenic optics, and high-voltage environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HTDM-13 is designed for passive optical component positioning—not sample handling—and supports payloads up to 2.5 kg with ≤ 0.5 arcsec tip/tilt deviation per 10 N lateral load. It complies with ISO 10110–7 (surface figure tolerances for optical mounts) and meets RoHS 2011/65/EU material restrictions. While not certified to IEC 61326 (EMC) or ISO 14001 (environmental management), its mechanical-only operation ensures compatibility with GLP-compliant optical metrology workflows where electromagnetic interference must be eliminated. The anodized finish provides corrosion resistance per ASTM B580 Class II, and all fasteners conform to ISO 4753 grade 8.8 specifications.

Software & Data Management

As a purely manual, analog positioning device, the HTDM-13 requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. Position data is recorded manually using the engraved scale or via external metrology tools such as digital autocollimators (e.g., Teledyne FLIR A3000), capacitive displacement sensors (e.g., Micro-Epsilon capaNCDT 6200 series), or laser Doppler vibrometers. For traceable calibration, users may reference NIST-traceable step gauges (e.g., Mitutoyo Gage Block Set Class 0) to verify linearity and hysteresis across the full 13 mm range. Audit trails for positional settings are maintained externally in laboratory notebooks or LIMS systems compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 when used in regulated optical assembly processes.

Applications

• Precision alignment of laser cavity mirrors, Brewster windows, and nonlinear crystals in Ti:sapphire and OPO systems
• Iterative optimization of fiber coupling efficiency in single-mode photonic integrated circuits
• Controlled displacement of etalons and Fabry–Pérot interferometers for wavelength tuning
• Calibration reference stage for beam pointing stability measurements in adaptive optics testbeds
• Adjustment of grating angles in monochromators and spectrographs requiring < 5 µrad angular reproducibility
• Positioning of photodetector arrays in spatial heterodyne spectrometers and Fourier-transform imaging systems

FAQ

Is the HTDM-13 vacuum-compatible?

Yes—when assembled with vacuum-rated lubricants (e.g., Braycote 601 EF) and operated below 10⁻⁵ Torr, the stage maintains positional stability with < 0.3 µm creep over 24 hours at room temperature.

Can it be motorized retrofitted?

No—its mechanical design lacks provisions for stepper/servo coupling; motorization would compromise differential resolution and introduce vibration coupling. Use dedicated motorized stages (e.g., Thorlabs K10CR1/M) for automated workflows.

What is the typical hysteresis error over the 0.2 mm fine range?

Measured average hysteresis is ≤ ±1.2 µm (0.6% of full fine range) when cycled at 0.05 rpm under 1 kg load, per ISO 230–2 Annex B protocols.

Does it include mounting hardware?

Yes—supplied with four M6 × 12 mm socket head cap screws and two SM1RR retaining rings for immediate integration into standard optical rail systems.