Diamond Turning of Polymer Optics

Abstract

SEM image of the cutting edge of a diamond tool worn from turning Polycarbonate

Polymers play a vital role in the optical industry. Polymers have low specific mass and
good optical properties when compared to mineral glasses and make them a commonly
used material for manufacturing lenses. Single point diamond turning is widely used as
a finishing operation in machining of plastic lenses. But the major problem for the optical
industry is to determine the parameters that can influence surface finish of diamond
turned plastic materials. Based on the fact that diamond is the hardest material known
and polymers are relatively soft, no tool wear would be expected. However, tool wear
has been identified as a problem in diamond turning of polymers. The goal of this
research project is to determine how machining parameters and material properties
influence surface finish and diamond tool wear. The polymers that will be studied in this
research include Polymethyl methacrylate, Polycarbonate and Zeonex ®.

The following faculty, students, and PEC affiliates are involved in this project: