ART Photonics FOCO-L-8/12-F20 Mid-Infrared Fiber Collimator with ZnSe Lens, 8–12 µm Spectral Range, 20 mm Focal Length
| Brand | ART Photonics |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Product Type | Fiber Collimator |
| Spectral Range | 8–12 µm |
| Lens Material | Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) |
| Focal Length | 20 mm |
| Model | FOCO-L-8/12-F20 |
| Component Category | Optical Instrument Component |
| Import Status | Imported |
Overview
The ART Photonics FOCO-L-8/12-F20 is a precision-engineered mid-infrared (MIR) fiber collimator designed for stable, low-aberration beam shaping in the 8–12 µm atmospheric transmission window. It integrates a high-purity, anti-reflection coated zinc selenide (ZnSe) aspheric lens with a kinematically aligned, stress-relieved fiber ferrule assembly—optimized for use with chalcogenide or hollow-core infrared fibers. The collimator operates on the principle of transforming divergent MIR radiation from a single-mode or multimode IR fiber into a collimated, near-diffraction-limited beam with minimal wavefront distortion. Its mechanical design ensures thermal stability and long-term alignment retention under laboratory and industrial environmental fluctuations, making it suitable for integration into FTIR spectrometers, quantum cascade laser (QCL) systems, gas sensing platforms, and thermal imaging calibration setups.
Key Features
- Optimized ZnSe lens with broadband AR coating (R < 0.5% per surface across 8–12 µm) to maximize throughput and minimize ghost reflections
- Precision-machined stainless steel housing with integrated fiber alignment sleeve and locking mechanism for repeatable repositioning
- Collimation performance validated via M² measurement and far-field intensity profiling at 10.6 µm (CO₂ laser line)
- Compatible with standard 2.5 mm or 3.2 mm outer diameter IR fiber connectors (e.g., SMA-905 or FC/PC variants with ceramic ferrules)
- No internal adhesives in optical path—lens secured via metal-to-metal contact and compression ring for vacuum and thermal cycling compatibility
- Working distance calibrated to achieve minimum beam divergence (< 1.5 mrad full angle) at nominal focal plane
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The FOCO-L-8/12-F20 is compatible with common mid-IR transmitting fibers, including As₂S₃, As₂Se₃, and Te-based chalcogenide fibers, as well as polycrystalline silver halide (AgClBr) and hollow-core photonic bandgap fibers. It meets mechanical interface specifications aligned with ISO 10110-7 (optical component mounting) and complies with RoHS 2011/65/EU directives. While not certified as a standalone medical or safety device, its construction supports integration into systems requiring adherence to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) when housed within properly shielded enclosures. No laser safety classification is assigned to the collimator itself; end-user responsibility includes compliance with ANSI Z136.1 or IEC 60825-1 when used with Class 3B or 4 MIR sources.
Software & Data Management
This is a passive optical component with no embedded electronics, firmware, or software dependencies. Alignment verification and system-level performance characterization are performed using external instrumentation—including beam profilers (e.g., Pyrocam III/IV), M² measurement systems, and FTIR-based spectral power meters. Documentation includes dimensional drawings (GD&T compliant per ISO 1101), lens transmission spectra (measured via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), and collimation test reports traceable to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) reference standards. All technical data sheets and mechanical models (STEP/IGES) are provided in English and conform to ISO 9001:2015 documentation control requirements.
Applications
- Free-space coupling between quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) and multipass gas cells in trace gas detection (e.g., NH₃, CH₄, NO₂ monitoring per EPA Method 320)
- Beam delivery in industrial MIR laser processing systems operating at 10.6 µm (CO₂) or tunable QCL wavelengths
- Reference path conditioning in Michelson-type interferometers for hyperspectral imaging
- Calibration source collimation in radiometric testing of uncooled microbolometer arrays
- Integration into portable FTIR spectrometers for field-deployable chemical identification (e.g., NATO AEP-97 compliant threat detection)
FAQ
Is this collimator suitable for pulsed QCL operation?
Yes—its all-metal, adhesive-free construction ensures resistance to thermal shock from nanosecond- to microsecond-duration pulses up to 100 kHz repetition rates.
Can the focal length be customized?
ART Photonics offers OEM customization including alternate focal lengths (e.g., 15 mm, 30 mm, 50 mm) and lens materials (e.g., Ge, GaAs) upon request; lead time and NRE apply.
What is the maximum input power density the ZnSe lens can withstand?
Under continuous-wave illumination at 10.6 µm, the lens is rated for ≤ 500 W/cm²; for pulsed operation, consult the damage threshold curve included in the technical supplement.
Does the collimator include fiber termination?
No—the FOCO-L-8/12-F20 is supplied as a bare collimator module; users must integrate it with pre-terminated IR fibers or perform fusion splicing using compatible MIR fiber cleavers and alignment stages.
Is vacuum-compatible packaging available?
Standard units ship in nitrogen-purged, static-shielded bags; vacuum-rated versions with welded stainless housings and metal-sealed feedthroughs are available under custom order (FOCO-VAC series).
