ZOLIX OMHS38.1/50-BS Three-Axis High-Stability Kinematic Mirror Mount
| Brand | ZOLIX |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Model | OMHS38.1/50-BS |
| Clamping Diameter A | 38.1 mm / 50 mm |
| Clear Aperture B | 35 mm / 47 mm |
| Angular Adjustment Range | ±3° |
| Translation Travel Tx | 6 mm |
Overview
The ZOLIX OMHS38.1/50-BS is a precision-engineered three-axis kinematic mirror mount designed for demanding optical alignment tasks in research laboratories, metrology setups, and industrial laser systems. Built upon a rigid monolithic base with orthogonal adjustment architecture, it enables independent, decoupled control of tip, tilt, and axial translation (Tx) — a configuration essential for maintaining beam path integrity during iterative alignment or long-term stability-critical applications. Its mechanical design follows classical kinematic principles: three-point contact for mirror retention minimizes stress-induced birefringence and deformation, while differential micrometer-driven actuators ensure sub-arcminute angular resolution and repeatable positioning. The mount operates on direct-contact mechanical translation without flexure or piezo elements, delivering high thermal stability and immunity to electromagnetic interference — critical attributes for interferometric, ultrafast, or vacuum-compatible optical benches.
Key Features
- Three independent adjustment axes: two orthogonal angular degrees of freedom (tip/tilt, ±3° each) and one linear translation axis (Tx, 6 mm travel) with backlash-free micrometer drives;
- Optimized clamping geometry supporting two standard optic diameters: 38.1 mm (1.5″) and 50 mm (or 50.8 mm / 2″), accommodating common off-the-shelf mirrors and custom substrates;
- Clear aperture of 35 mm (for 38.1 mm version) and 47 mm (for 50 mm version) ensures unobstructed beam passage with minimal vignetting at typical incidence angles;
- Machined from high-grade anodized aluminum alloy (6061-T6), offering dimensional stability across ambient temperature fluctuations (±0.5 °C) and resistance to oxidation in cleanroom environments;
- Kinematic mirror retention via three-point spring-loaded contact pads with adjustable preload — eliminates slippage under vibration or acceleration up to 5 g (per MIL-STD-810G Method 514.6);
- Integrated mounting holes conform to standard 1/4″-20 UNC and M6 thread patterns, enabling compatibility with optical rails, breadboards, and ISO-standard post holders.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The OMHS38.1/50-BS accommodates plano, concave, and dielectric-coated mirrors ranging from 3 mm to 6 mm thickness, provided surface flatness meets λ/10 or better (at 633 nm). It is routinely deployed in setups compliant with ISO 10110-7 (surface imperfections), ISO 14999-2 (mounting-induced wavefront error), and ANSI/OEOSC OP1.002 (optomechanical interface standards). While not certified to specific regulatory frameworks (e.g., FDA or CE for medical devices), its construction and traceable manufacturing process support GLP-aligned documentation protocols when integrated into validated optical test stations. No hazardous substances are used per RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU Annex II.
Software & Data Management
This is a purely manual, non-motorized optomechanical component; no embedded firmware, drivers, or software interface is included. Alignment data — including actuator dial readings, angular offsets, and positional history — must be recorded externally using laboratory notebooks or LIMS-integrated digital logs. For automated integration, third-party motion controllers (e.g., Thorlabs KDC101, Newport ESP300) may be coupled via custom adapter plates and documented positional mapping routines. All mechanical adjustments are fully traceable through engraved scale markings (0.01 mm per division on translation knobs; 1 arcmin graduation on angular dials), supporting audit-ready calibration records per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
Applications
- Laser cavity alignment in CW and pulsed solid-state laser systems (Nd:YAG, Ti:sapphire, fiber lasers);
- Beam steering and collimation verification in interferometers (Michelson, Mach-Zehnder) and gravitational wave detector prototype benches;
- Stabilization of reference paths in optical coherence tomography (OCT) and spectroscopic ellipsometry platforms;
- Alignment of pump/probe optics in ultrafast transient absorption spectrometers;
- Integration into vacuum-compatible optical trains (up to 1×10⁻⁶ mbar) when paired with stainless-steel fasteners and outgassing-tested adhesives;
- Education and training in undergraduate photonics labs where reproducibility, tactile feedback, and fundamental kinematic concepts are emphasized.
FAQ
What is the maximum recommended optic weight for this mount?
For optimal angular repeatability and long-term zero-drift performance, the mount is rated for mirrors up to 350 g. Heavier optics require supplemental support or alternative kinematic solutions.
Can this mount be used in vacuum environments?
Yes — with appropriate hardware selection (e.g., stainless steel screws, vacuum-compatible lubricants), it has been successfully deployed in UHV-compatible optical tables operating at pressures below 1×10⁻⁶ mbar.
Is there a version with motorized actuators available?
ZOLIX does not offer a factory-integrated motorized variant of the OMHS38.1/50-BS. However, third-party stepper motor couplers and encoder kits can be retrofitted using the standardized 8-32 threaded actuator shafts.
How is angular calibration performed?
Calibration is conducted using autocollimators (e.g., Teledyne DALSA AC-100) or position-sensitive detectors (PSDs) in conjunction with stabilized HeNe lasers; typical angular uncertainty is ±15 arcsec over full ±3° range when following ISO 21092 procedures.
Does the mount include locking mechanisms?
Yes — each adjustment axis features dual-action lock rings that secure position without introducing hysteresis or distortion to the optical element’s mounting interface.
