Standard Optical Plano-convex Lens Glass Customizable Lens
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- Outer Diameter: 3mm – 300mm
- Thickness: 1mm-30mm
- Dimension Tolerance: +/-0.05mm or better
- Surface Quality: 60-40 or better
- Coating: AR coating or custom design
What is the Plano-convex Lens?
The plano-convex lens is a special type of standard spherical lens. Its structural characteristics are very distinct: one side is flat and the other is convex.
This unique structure gives it unique advantages in light convergence, enabling it to efficiently focus parallel light onto a single point. Also, it reduces aberration effects in specific scenarios.
Compared with double convex lenses, the manufacturing process of a plano-convex lens is relatively simpler and the cost is more controllable.
In optical systems, a plano-convex lens is usually used as a focusing element. It is suitable for single-lens imaging or scenarios that require a simplified optical structure.
The working principle of a plano-convex lens
The working principle of a plano-convex lens is based on the law of refraction.
The core of it is to achieve precise convergence of light through the curvature design of the convex surface.
When light parallel to the optical axis is incident on a plano-convex lens, it will undergo refraction at both surfaces:
Firstly, the light enters the lens (glass or other optical materials) from the air, and due to the change in refractive index of the medium at the convex surface, it bends towards the direction of the optical axis.
Then, the light exits the lens through the flat surface and enters the air, undergoing a second refraction, further converging towards the optical axis.
Finally, all the parallel light rays will converge at the focus of the lens, forming a clear point image.
Applications of the plano-convex lens
The following is the applications of the lens:
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Imaging field
They can effectively reduce aberrations and are particularly suitable for simplifying lens structures and reducing equipment costs.
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Laser technology field
In laser marking, laser welding, laser cutting and other equipment, it is used to focus the divergent laser beam. It forms a high-energy-density light spot, to achieve precise processing of materials.
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Medical equipment field
In microscopes, endoscopes and other medical instruments, the plano-convex lense is used to converge light, improving the brightness and clarity of imaging. It helps doctors observe human tissues or cell structures more clearly.
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Lighting field
In projectors, stage lights and other lighting equipment, it can converge the divergent light emitted by the light source, forming parallel light or specific-shaped light spots.
How to maintain the plano-convex lense
- Avoid contamination:
When cleaning, use dedicated optical cleaning paper or lens cloths.
Dip a small amount of anhydrous ethanol or ether and gently wipe, avoiding vigorous scraping.
- Prevent collision:
The optical surface of the lens is relatively fragile. It should be avoided from colliding or being squeezed by hard objects.
When storing, it should be placed in a dedicated packaging box or lens case to prevent wear or cracking.