ZOLIX RSM56-1 & RSM73-1 Precision Manual Rotary Stages

Overview

The ZOLIX RSM56-1 and RSM73-1 are manually operated precision rotary stages engineered for high-stability angular positioning in optical alignment, interferometry, polarization control, and laser beam steering applications. These stages employ a dual-scale coarse/fine adjustment mechanism based on a kinematically constrained, low-backlash axial bearing system and an ultra-fine-pitch M6×0.25 lead screw—designed to minimize axial play and thermal drift while maximizing repeatability. The 360° circumferential scale with vernier reading enables direct angular measurement without external encoders or digital readouts. Both models feature a central through-hole optimized for optical transmission: the RSM56-1 incorporates a 26 mm clear aperture, while the RSM73-1 provides an M27×1 threaded bore compatible with standard optical mounts and vacuum-compatible flange adapters. Their modular mechanical architecture—including top and bottom surfaces with standardized tapped hole patterns (M4 and M6 per ISO 2768-mK)—ensures seamless integration into multi-axis optical benches, kinematic mounts, and custom optomechanical assemblies.

Key Features

• Coarse/fine dual-adjustment mechanism with independent locking capability for both rotation axes
• Precision-ground stainless steel bearing raceways and hardened brass bushings for long-term wear resistance and consistent torque profile
• Vernier-scaled aluminum alloy stage body with laser-etched, corrosion-resistant graduation marks (2° minimum division on RSM56-1; 1° on RSM73-1)
• Angular resolution of 0.2° (RSM56-1) and 5 arcminutes (RSM73-1) under optimal lighting and viewing conditions
• Centered optical aperture with concentricity tolerance ≤ ±0.02 mm relative to rotational axis
• Load capacity rated at 2 kg (RSM56-1) and 5 kg (RSM73-1) for static, axially centered loads; performance validated per ISO 10110-7 guidelines for optical component mounting
• Low-inertia design: mass moment of inertia of 1.8×10⁻⁴ kg·m² (RSM56-1) and 5.3×10⁻⁴ kg·m² (RSM73-1), minimizing settling time during manual repositioning

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These rotary stages are designed for use with standard optical components including mirrors, waveplates, polarizers, beam splitters, and fiber collimators. The M27×1 internal thread on the RSM73-1 accommodates industry-standard lens tubes (e.g., Thorlabs SM27 series) and vacuum feedthrough adapters (CF16/CF20 compatible when paired with appropriate sealing rings). All structural materials conform to RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and REACH Annex XVII restrictions. Surface finishes meet ISO 8502-3 cleanliness requirements for Class 1000 cleanroom environments. No electrical or electromagnetic components are integrated; therefore, no CE marking or FCC certification applies—however, mechanical compliance with ISO 9283 (manipulator performance testing) and GB/T 20937–2007 (Chinese national standard for optical positioning devices) is verified during final QA inspection.

Software & Data Management

As fully manual, non-motorized instruments, the RSM56-1 and RSM73-1 require no firmware, drivers, or software integration. Angular position data is recorded manually via vernier scale reading and documented in laboratory notebooks or LIMS systems per GLP-compliant workflows. For traceable calibration, users may pair these stages with NIST-traceable autocollimators (e.g., Teledyne FLIR T1020) or digital theodolites. Calibration certificates—including uncertainty budgets per GUM (JCGM 100:2008) and linearity verification across full 360° travel—are available upon request from ZOLIX’s accredited metrology lab (CNAS L8263).

Applications

• Laser cavity alignment and resonator mode optimization in DPSS and Ti:sapphire systems
• Polarization state control using rotating half-wave plates in ellipsometry and Mueller matrix measurements
• Multi-angle reflectance/transmittance mapping of thin-film coatings and photonic crystals
• Calibration reference platforms for goniometric spectrophotometers (ASTM E275, ISO 13468-2)
• Beam steering in free-space quantum optics setups requiring sub-degree angular stability over 8-hour thermal cycles
• Integration into OEM optical enclosures where EMI immunity and zero power consumption are mandatory

FAQ

Are these stages compatible with vacuum environments?
Yes—the RSM73-1 model supports vacuum operation up to 10⁻⁵ mbar when equipped with optional stainless steel hardware and Viton O-rings; the RSM56-1 is rated for low-vacuum (<10 mbar) due to its aluminum housing.
Can I mount a 30 mm cage system directly to the stage?
Yes—both models include 4× M4 and 4× M6 threaded holes on the top surface spaced to match Thorlabs 30 mm cage plate patterns (center-to-center distance: 25 mm and 50 mm respectively).
What is the maximum allowable eccentric load before angular deviation exceeds ±0.1°?
For the RSM56-1, eccentric loading beyond 15 mm radial offset from center reduces angular repeatability to >±0.15°; for the RSM73-1, this threshold extends to 22 mm under 3 kg load.
Do you provide calibration reports with purchase?
Standard units ship without calibration documentation; however, factory-certified calibration with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited uncertainty statements is available as an optional add-on service.
Is thermal drift characterized across the operating temperature range?
Yes—angular drift is measured at <0.08°/°C over 15–35°C ambient, verified via interferometric angular displacement monitoring per ISO 230-2 Annex C.