ZOLIX NFP-2462/3462 Series Ultra-High-Precision Manual Multi-Axis Translation Stages
| Brand | ZOLIX |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | OEM Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic (China-Made) |
| Model Series | NFP-2462 (XY), NFP-3462 (XYZ) |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The ZOLIX NFP-2462 and NFP-3462 Series are ultra-high-precision manual translation stages engineered for demanding optical alignment, interferometry, microscopy, and quantum optics applications. These stages implement a modular kinematic architecture based on high-stiffness crossed-roller bearings and precision-ground stainless steel guide rails, delivering sub-micron repeatability and minimal wobble (< 5 µrad angular deviation per axis). The NFP-2462 configuration integrates two independently adjustable NFP-1462 single-axis stages into a rigid XY platform—offering orthogonal motion with calibrated orthogonality error < 10 arcsec. The NFP-3462 extends this design with a vertically mounted Z-axis stage (NFP-1462CZ or NFP-1461CZ), enabling full three-axis positional control while preserving thermal stability and mechanical hysteresis < 0.5 µm over repeated cycles. All variants are designed for vacuum-compatible environments (optional stainless-steel hardware and dry-lubricated leadscrews available upon specification) and support integration into ISO-standard optical tables via M6 threaded mounting holes.
Key Features
- Modular system architecture: Interchangeable NFP-1462-series single-axis modules allow field-reconfigurable XY or XYZ assemblies without recalibration.
- Precision micrometer drives: 10 µm resolution fine-pitch leadscrews (0.25 mm/rev) with backlash-compensated knurled knobs and engraved dual-scale graduations (metric + imperial).
- Low-profile structural design: NFP-2462CC, NFP-2462LL, and NFP-2462RR variants differ in base plate geometry and mounting hole patterns to accommodate varied optical breadboard layouts and clearance constraints.
- Z-axis integration kits: NFP-462-Zkit (stainless steel right-angle brackets) ensure orthogonal coupling between horizontal and vertical axes with ≤ 3 µm parallelism tolerance across the full travel range.
- Material consistency: Anodized aluminum alloy (6061-T6) main bodies; hardened stainless steel bearing races and drive components; all surfaces meet ISO 10110-7 surface roughness specifications (Ra ≤ 0.4 µm).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
These stages are compatible with standard optical components including mirrors (up to Ø50 mm), lens mounts, fiber couplers, and photonic integrated circuit (PIC) alignment fixtures. Load capacity is rated at 5 kg per axis (static) with ≤ 0.8 µm elastic deformation under full load. The design conforms to ISO 9283:1998 (industrial robot performance criteria) for positioning accuracy and repeatability assessment. While not certified for medical or aerospace use, the mechanical construction complies with RoHS 2011/65/EU directives and supports GLP-compliant lab documentation when paired with traceable calibration reports (available as optional service). No electrical or pneumatic interfaces are included—operation is strictly manual and non-powered.
Software & Data Management
As purely manual mechanical stages, the NFP-2462/3462 series do not incorporate embedded electronics, encoders, or digital interfaces. Position tracking and documentation must be performed externally using calibrated dial indicators, laser interferometers (e.g., Keysight 5530 series), or vision-based metrology systems. ZOLIX provides dimensional drawings (STEP and PDF formats), mounting templates, and assembly instructions compliant with ISO 16792:2015 for CAD-integrated optical system design. For labs requiring audit-ready records, position settings can be logged manually into LIMS or ELN platforms using standardized template fields (e.g., “Stage ID”, “Axis”, “Micrometer Reading [µm]”, “Timestamp”, “Operator ID”).
Applications
- Precision alignment of laser cavities and external cavity diode lasers (ECDLs)
- Beam steering and focus optimization in confocal and STED microscopy setups
- Positioning of diffractive optical elements (DOEs) and spatial light modulators (SLMs) in adaptive optics testbenches
- Calibration reference platforms for optical encoder verification and autocollimator testing
- Stable sample carriers in Raman spectroscopy and low-noise photoluminescence measurement systems
FAQ
Are NFP-2462 and NFP-3462 stages compatible with motorized actuation upgrades?
Yes—NFP-1462-series base modules accept third-party stepper or piezo-driven actuators (e.g., Thorlabs K10CR1, Newport TRA series) via standardized 8-32 UNC and M4 mounting interfaces. Custom adapter plates are available upon request.
What is the typical travel range per axis?
Standard configurations provide 25 mm travel per axis; extended-range variants (50 mm) are offered as custom builds with modified lead screw lengths and reinforced guide rail supports.
Do these stages require periodic recalibration?
No—mechanical repeatability is maintained through wear-resistant materials and preload-optimized bearing geometry. However, users performing metrology-grade work should verify positional accuracy annually using NIST-traceable interferometric methods.
Can I mix NFP-1461 and NFP-1462 modules in one assembly?
Yes, but only within specified compatibility matrices (e.g., NFP-1461SR + NFP-1461CZ in NFP-3461RRZ); mixing 1461- and 1462-series components outside documented combinations may compromise orthogonality and load distribution.
Is vacuum compatibility standard or optional?
Standard versions operate in ambient air; vacuum-rated configurations (≤10⁻⁶ mbar) require optional stainless steel hardware, vacuum-compatible lubricants, and vented base plates—specified at time of order.
