Re: cutting mirror

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., george@f... wrote:

> Is it possible to mill mirror?

It is possible to use a flycutter with a diamond tool to cut aluminum
to a mirror finish. This is one technique that is used to make the
laser beam directors in high quality, hi density laser copiers and
printers(over 2400 dpi). More often the aluminum lens was turned
with a diamond tipped tool, but some of the mirrors were prismatic.

The beam director in one of these machines is very expensive and
includes a hi res encoder, stepper and the whole assembly is mounted
on an air bearing spindle. I can't remember the specs, but the
rotational speed is extremely fast, even though it never makes a full
revolution.

The equipment to cut these mirrors is NOT hobby grade, and in fact is
not even commercial grade. It is best described as Hi-tech, R&D lab
grade, custom built for the application.

More recently I have seen laser beam directors for applications like
doctors offices. These have again, a prismatic mirror made from
aluminum. Machines were .000020 inch resolution Miyano lathes and an
equivalent mill, I believe Kitamura. PCD tooling (PolyCrystaline
Diamond). Very nice finish.

Glass? You'll have to lap & polish it for the right finish and size.