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Protection Methods For Optics: 9.1 Tissue
Protection Methods For Optics: 9.1 Tissue
Protection Methods
for Optics
This chapter explains how to wrap and package optics for short- and
long-term storage. It also explains how to wrap components for
shipping to a vendor or customer.
Once an optic is cleaned, the next steps are to wrap and/or store it,
protect it from the elements, keep it free of contaminants, and prevent
any possible damage. The methods presented have been developed over
many years and have been used by the military, commercial, and optical
industries. Wrapping methods use tissue, envelopes, and clamshell
packaging, or a mixture of these materials.
9.1 Tissue
Wrapping optics with tissue is the most common method used to protect
them. There are two basic types of tissue, white and brown. White tissue
is processed with acid, whereas brown is not. The issue with white tissue
is that moisture will leach acid used in the manufacturing process onto
the optic and etch the glass or coatings. The MIL specs call for wrapping
glass with brown tissue only, and this tradition is still carried on today.
Acid-free white tissue is now available for archival use; it is suggested for use with
uncoated optics, although brown tissue should be used with coated optics such
as metallic coated mirrors. Either tissue can be used so long as it is acid free.
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9.2 Envelopes
The envelope is a handy method to wrap optics for shipping or
storage; Fig. 9.2 illustrates several kinds. It has a cost advantage over
other types of packaging and is manufactured to standard sizes. Pick a
size slightly larger than the optic. If the shape of the optic has strong
curves or is thick, it may require an envelope two to three times its
size. The envelope can be sealed using the glue on the flap or by taping
the flap in place.
Figure 9.2 Various types of envelopes: paper, plastic, vellum, pocket, and cloth.
Plastic bags with seals can also be used to store or cover optics.
Figure 9.5 Rectangle clamshell or molded container; note the different internal
shapes (image courtesy of Empire West Company).
Figure 9.6 Round clamshell or molded container; note the different internal
shapes (image courtesy of Empire West Company).
Figure 9.7 Catalog and custom-made foam containers (courtesy of Tempo Plastic
Company).