ZOLIX APFP-TS Precision Optical Translation Stage with Dovetail Mount
| Brand | ZOLIX |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | APFP-TS |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The ZOLIX APFP-TS Precision Optical Translation Stage is a manually operated, high-stability linear translation stage engineered for precise positioning and repeatable alignment of optical components in laboratory and research-grade optical setups. Its core mechanical architecture utilizes a precision-machined dovetail (also referred to as “dovetail rail” or “male-female dovetail”) interface on the upper mounting surface—designed specifically to accept standard optical component carriers, lens mounts, mirror mounts, and kinematic baseplates featuring complementary dovetail grooves. This mechanical coupling ensures axial rigidity, minimal lateral play, and reliable retention under moderate vibrational loads typical of optical tables and vibration-isolated benches. The stage operates via a calibrated micrometer drive with fine-pitch threading, enabling sub-millimeter incremental motion control without backlash. It is not motorized or automated; its design prioritizes mechanical simplicity, long-term dimensional stability, and compatibility with vacuum-compatible and non-magnetic configurations when specified.
Key Features
- Precision-ground aluminum alloy body with black anodized finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and reduced stray light reflection
- Integrated dovetail rail (12 mm nominal width, 60° included angle) conforming to common OEM optical mount standards (e.g., Thorlabs SM1, Newport 8-32 tapped variants)
- Micrometer-driven linear actuation with 0.5 mm pitch lead screw and engraved scale (resolution: 0.01 mm per division, repeatability ±2 µm)
- Low-profile form factor (height ≤ 25 mm) optimized for multi-axis stacking and compact optical path layouts
- Four M4 threaded mounting holes (center-to-center spacing: 50 mm × 50 mm) on base plate for secure attachment to optical tables, breadboards, or custom fixtures
- No lubricants or elastomeric seals in standard configuration—suitable for cleanroom environments and dry nitrogen purged enclosures
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The APFP-TS stage is compatible with a wide range of passive optical components—including but not limited to plano-convex lenses, dichroic mirrors, waveplates, fiber launchers, and detector mounts—provided they are equipped with standardized dovetail-compatible bases. It does not support active components (e.g., piezo actuators, motorized positioners) directly; however, it serves as a foundational platform for hybrid manual/automated systems when integrated beneath motorized stages or goniometers. While not certified to ISO 9001 or CE for industrial automation, the unit complies with general laboratory equipment safety guidelines per IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety (non-powered classification). Its construction materials meet RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU restrictions on hazardous substances. Documentation includes dimensional drawings and mounting torque specifications aligned with GLP documentation practices for traceable experimental setup reconstruction.
Software & Data Management
As a purely mechanical, non-electronic device, the APFP-TS requires no firmware, drivers, or proprietary software. Position data is recorded manually using the integrated micrometer scale or external metrology tools (e.g., digital calipers, laser interferometers). Users integrating this stage into automated workflows may log positional values via third-party DAQ systems (e.g., LabVIEW, Python-based PyVISA scripts) when paired with optional add-on digital readout kits (sold separately). All mechanical tolerances and thermal expansion coefficients (α ≈ 23.1 × 10⁻⁶ /°C for 6061-T6 aluminum) are documented in the technical datasheet to support uncertainty budgeting in metrology-critical applications.
Applications
- Fine alignment of laser cavity optics in CW and pulsed laser systems
- Positioning of spectroscopic sample holders in UV-Vis-NIR benchtop spectrometers
- Adjustment of beam steering mirrors in interferometric setups (Michelson, Mach-Zehnder)
- Integration into educational optics kits for undergraduate physics laboratories
- Stabilized mounting platform for CCD/CMOS sensor arrays in low-light imaging rigs
- Modular staging in custom-built optical coherence tomography (OCT) reference arms
FAQ
Is the dovetail rail compatible with Thorlabs or Newport optical mounts?
Yes—the APFP-TS dovetail conforms to industry-standard 12 mm width and 60° geometry, allowing direct mechanical engagement with Thorlabs KM100 series carriers and Newport TR series dovetail plates.
Can this stage be used in vacuum environments?
The standard version is suitable for dry, low-vacuum (<10⁻² mbar) applications; for UHV use, specify vacuum-compatible anodization and stainless steel fasteners at time of order.
What is the maximum load capacity?
Static load rating is 3.5 kg centered on the dovetail rail; dynamic load limit is 1.8 kg at 0.1 Hz oscillation frequency.
Does ZOLIX provide calibration certificates?
Traceable calibration reports (per ISO/IEC 17025) are available upon request for an additional fee and require prior scheduling with the Beijing manufacturing facility.
Are replacement micrometer knobs or dovetail inserts available?
Yes—ZOLIX maintains spare parts inventory for APFP-TS, including drive knobs (PN: APFP-KNOB), locking screws (PN: APFP-LOCK-M4), and dovetail wear strips (PN: APFP-DT-STRIP).
