ZOLIX TSM13 Series Precision Manual Translation Stage

Overview

The ZOLIX TSM13 Series Precision Manual Translation Stage is a compact, high-stability linear positioning platform engineered for demanding optical alignment, laser beam steering, and micro-optomechanical assembly tasks in research laboratories and industrial R&D environments. Based on the Couette-type sliding principle with preloaded linear ball bearing guides, the stage delivers deterministic, repeatable motion over its full 13 mm travel range. Its mechanical architecture integrates a spring-loaded anti-backlash mechanism directly coupled to a fine-pitch M6×0.25 stainless steel lead screw—ensuring minimal axial play (<1 µm residual backlash after preload) and long-term positional stability under static load. Unlike friction-driven or plastic-threaded alternatives, the TSM13’s hardened steel-on-steel interface maintains metrological integrity across temperature fluctuations from 15 °C to 30 °C and humidity levels up to 60% RH non-condensing. The stage conforms to standard optomechanical mounting conventions, enabling seamless integration into multi-axis kinematic systems—including XYZ stacks, gimbal mounts, and motorized hybrid platforms.

Key Features

• Linear ball bearing guide rail system with precision-ground steel rods and hardened raceways, delivering low-friction, high-rigidity translation with <±0.005 mm repeatability
• Selectively configurable drive options: standard fine-pitch M6×0.25 screw (TSM13-1/TSM13-2), vernier-indexed micrometer head (suffix “A”, 0.01 mm graduation), or precision ground lead screw (suffix “S”) for enhanced resolution
• Integrated spring-loaded anti-backlash assembly that actively compensates for thermal expansion and wear-induced clearance without requiring manual recalibration
• Standardized 34 × 34 mm top plate with dual-pattern M3 and M4 threaded hole arrays (25 mm pitch grid), fully interoperable with Thorlabs, Newport, and Standa mounting accessories
• Optimized mass-to-stiffness ratio: weight ranges from 50 g to 70 g depending on configuration, minimizing inertial perturbation during manual adjustment and supporting vibration-damped optical tables (e.g., Newport RS series)
• Corrosion-resistant black oxide finish on all structural components, compliant with ISO 14644-1 Class 5 cleanroom handling protocols when used with lint-free gloves

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TSM13 stage is mechanically compatible with optical components ranging from Ø12.7 mm lens mounts to 50.8 mm cage systems and fiber collimator subassemblies. Its 2 kg static load rating supports typical payloads including kinematic mirror mounts (e.g., KM100 series), piezo-actuated tip/tilt platforms, and miniature spectrometer input slits. All materials meet RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU restrictions on hazardous substances. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025, the manufacturing process follows internal quality control procedures aligned with ISO 9001:2015 clauses 7.5.2 (traceability) and 8.5.1 (production control). Documentation includes full dimensional drawings, material certifications (SAE AMS 5643 for steel components), and mechanical test reports (load vs. deflection curves at 0.5 N·m torque).

Software & Data Management

As a purely manual mechanical stage, the TSM13 requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. However, its standardized dimensions and repeatable scale markings enable direct correlation with digital measurement systems—including USB-based optical encoders (e.g., Renishaw RESOLUTE™ RLE series), laser interferometers (Keysight 5530), and machine vision alignment tools (Basler ace acA2000-50gm). Users may log positional data manually using traceable calibration logs compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements when deployed in regulated analytical workflows (e.g., UV-Vis spectrophotometer wavelength calibration rigs). Optional engraved serial-number plates support asset tracking within CMMS platforms such as IBM Maximo or SAP EAM.

Applications

• Precision alignment of laser diodes, fiber couplers, and free-space interferometer arms in quantum optics labs
• Coarse/fine positioning stages for confocal microscopy sample scanning assemblies (paired with piezo nanopositioners)
• Adjustable slit mechanisms in benchtop monochromators and FTIR sampling interfaces
• Calibration reference platforms for optical encoder verification and autocollimator angular error mapping
• Modular component staging in educational photonics kits (e.g., PASCO OS-8500 series) where deterministic manual control is pedagogically preferred over motorized alternatives

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended load for continuous use?
The stage is rated for 2 kg static load; dynamic loads exceeding 1.2 kg are discouraged to preserve long-term repeatability and minimize guide wear.
Can the TSM13 be mounted vertically or inverted?
Yes—its symmetrical base design and through-hole mounting pattern support orientation-independent installation, though gravitational sag must be accounted for in vertical configurations exceeding 1 kg payload.
Is the micrometer version (TSM13-1A) traceably calibrated?
Each “A”-suffixed unit ships with a factory verification report showing deviation against NIST-traceable slip gauges at three points across travel; full calibration certificates are available upon request (ISO/IEC 17025 accredited lab optional).
How does the spring-loaded anti-backlash mechanism function?
A constant-force coil spring applies axial preload to the nut assembly, maintaining contact pressure between screw and nut threads independent of operational history or ambient temperature drift.
Are replacement parts (e.g., screws, micrometer heads) available separately?
Yes—ZOLIX provides OEM-specified spare components including M6×0.25 lead screws (grade 8.8), vernier dials (0.01 mm resolution), and stainless steel mounting hardware kits under part numbers TS-SK-01 through TS-SK-04.