ZOLIX PSM13(A)-34 Series Precision Manual Translation Stage

Overview

The ZOLIX PSM13(A)-34 Series is a high-precision manual translation stage engineered for demanding optical alignment, interferometry, and micro-positioning applications in research laboratories and industrial metrology environments. Based on the Couette-type micrometer-driven linear motion principle, it delivers repeatable sub-micron positioning accuracy through a hardened stainless-steel micrometer screw coupled to a preloaded linear ball bearing rail system. The stage’s rigid aluminum alloy body—machined to ±2 µm flatness tolerance—and symmetrically constrained carriage ensure minimal pitch/yaw deviation (< 3 arcsec over full travel) and thermal stability across ambient lab conditions (15–30 °C). Designed explicitly for integration into multi-axis optical breadboards, confocal microscope platforms, and laser cavity alignment assemblies, the PSM13(A)-34 Series meets the mechanical integrity requirements of ISO 10110-7 (optical component mounting) and supports stable operation under static loads up to 5 kg in horizontal configurations.

Key Features

• 13 mm unidirectional travel range with 0.003 mm minimum incremental resolution—achieved via a 0.5 mm pitch precision-ground micrometer screw and vernier scale readout
• 34 mm × 34 mm top plate with four M3 threaded mounting holes (pitch = 12.7 mm grid) and center-located reference datum mark for coordinate repeatability
• Linear ball bearing guide rails with dual-side preload eliminate lateral play and provide < 0.5 µm bidirectional repeatability (measured per ISO 230-2 Annex B)
• Four mechanically distinct variants: Center-Driven (PSM13(A)-34C), Vertical-Mount Capable (PSM13(A)-34CZ), Right-Side Driven (PSM13(A)-34SR), and Left-Side Driven (PSM13(A)-34SL)—each optimized for spatial constraint compatibility
• Load-rated performance validated per DIN 53221: 5 kg maximum static load for C/SR/SL configurations; 1.5 kg for CZ variant due to moment arm limitations in vertical orientation
• Anodized 6061-T6 aluminum housing with corrosion-resistant surface finish (ASTM B557 Class II) suitable for cleanroom Class 1000 environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PSM13(A)-34 Series accommodates standard optical components including lens mounts (e.g., SM1-threaded housings), mirror kinematic mounts (KF12/KF25), and fiber launch collimators—provided total mass and center-of-gravity remain within specified load envelopes. All variants comply with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and CE marking requirements for mechanical laboratory equipment. Mechanical interface dimensions conform to ANSI/ISA-71.04-2013 G2 severity level for particulate resistance. While not intrinsically rated for vacuum use, the stage may be operated at pressures down to 10⁻² mbar when equipped with vacuum-compatible lubricant (optional upgrade); outgassing data available upon request per ASTM E595.

Software & Data Management

As a manually actuated stage, the PSM13(A)-34 Series does not incorporate embedded electronics or digital interfaces. However, its mechanical design ensures seamless interoperability with third-party motion control ecosystems: position feedback can be integrated via external capacitive or optical encoders (e.g., Renishaw RESOLUTE™ or Keysight 5530 laser interferometer systems) mounted on the base plate using standardized kinematic dowel pin locations. Documentation includes full GD&T drawings (ASME Y14.5-2018 compliant), traceable calibration certificates (NIST-traceable micrometer screw pitch verification), and assembly instructions aligned with GLP documentation standards for instrument qualification (IQ/OQ protocols available separately).

Applications

• Precise alignment of laser diodes and fiber couplers in free-space optical interconnect development
• Sub-pixel registration of imaging sensors during focal plane array characterization
• Controlled displacement in white-light interferometry and surface profilometry setups
• Adjustment of etalon cavity length in tunable filter calibration workflows
• Staged translation in automated spectroscopic sample scanning where motorization is undesirable (e.g., EMI-sensitive MRI-adjacent labs)
• Education-focused optics labs requiring tactile, deterministic positioning without software dependency

FAQ

Is the PSM13(A)-34 series compatible with motorized actuation?
No—the stage is designed exclusively for manual micrometer operation. Retrofitting with stepper/servo motors voids structural warranty and compromises positional fidelity due to inherent backlash in non-integrated drive trains.
Can multiple PSM13(A)-34 stages be stacked for XYZ motion?
Yes. The low-profile design (22 mm height) and standardized base-mounting pattern support orthogonal stacking. Users must account for cumulative angular error (additive yaw/pitch) and derate total load capacity by 30% per added axis per ISO 10360-2 guidelines.
What maintenance is required for long-term sensitivity retention?
Annual cleaning of rail surfaces with isopropyl alcohol and re-lubrication using Klüberplex BEM 41-141 grease (ISO-L-XBCH 2) is recommended. Micrometer threads should be inspected for wear every 5,000 actuation cycles using optical comparator verification.
Does ZOLIX provide calibration services for this stage?
Yes—traceable position error mapping (per ISO 230-2) and sensitivity verification are offered as optional post-purchase services, with certificates issued against NIST-traceable laser interferometer standards.