Apr 8 2005
Syntec Technologies, a manufacturer of custom polymer optics, announces patent-pending HRDT technology that cuts costs by up to 5X for optics applications requiring high refraction, heat resistant, NIR performance. HRDT, or high refraction diamond turning, enables direct diamond turning of polymers such as Ultem to a surface as smooth as 60 angstroms, critical in meeting many telecom, defense and biometric performance demands.
According to Rick Arndt, VP of Tooling for Rochester Tool and Mold, a wholly owned subsidiary of Syntec Technologies, "Before HRDT was available, it was impossible to direct diamond turn polymers suitable for high index NIR needs any smoother than 450 angstroms. Each prototype cycle needed a mold, which required 8 to 12 weeks minimum and also raised production break-even points. Now these high performance, thermal resistant prototypes can be created in days at volumes as low or high as needed."
Paul Tolley, VP and General Manager of Syntec adds, "HRDT is one more advance in an evolving series that have made polymer optics, once rare, a significant force in solving high technology issues. Polymer optics has three unique advantages: 1) light weight, which is critical for airborne accuracy and human mobility; 2) custom shapes, which are critical for easy integration into demanding packaging constraints; and 3) complex structures, which are critical in reducing overall size and cost." He adds, "HRDT is the result of our ongoing commitment to innovative ways for using existing materials more and more cost-effectively."
http://www.syntectechnologies.com/