Damped Optical Post, Gear Rack, Mounting Base, 14 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter

Newport optical support rods are made of 1.5 in.(38.1 mm) diameter steel tubing, whose material properties allow for greater dynamic rigidity than aluminum designs, as well as thermal stability. The optical support rods are made round to < 1/1000 of an in. (12 µm) for precise, reproducible mating of rod-mounted components. The matte finish of the rods provides a low-reflectivity surface that is resistant to gouging, scratching and corrosion. The hollow-core construction provides even the standard (undamped) support rods with lower vibration amplitudes and higher resonant frequencies, often preferred for sensitive optical systems. The inherently greater stiffness and strength of these steel rods provides its support for larger and heavier optical components.

Model 45 and 75 Damped Optical Support Rods are a sophisticated upgrade to the standard supports available in this series, designed for measurements sensitive to acoustic or similar vibrational forces. These rods feature cylindrical masses constrained by damping layers in the upper portions of the rod, located for the most effective dissipation of vibrational energy based on precise computer modeling and testing. Newport’s patented internal damping system provides the utmost vibrational immunity from the environment. Compared to the best alternative designs, Newport damped optical support rods exhibit 60% higher resonant frequency, 5X faster vibration decay and 160% better peak compliance. Both models are 14 in. (356 mm) in length and mount to tables and breadboards securely with four bolts. Model 75 has a nylon gear rack for rack-and-pinion control of mounted elements' elevation. The time-domain responses shown in the figure compare these rods with model 40, the standard steel rod in this family, with the same load at 240 Hz, corresponding to the first bending mode of a cantilevered beam.

All optical support rods attach easily to tables either with an integral tie-down bolt or a steel ring base. We offer a wide selection of precision components including clamps, platforms and optics holders that mount interchangeably on the rods for complete component mounting flexibility.

Newport has designed several accessories that securely mount onto 1.5 in. rods to support and enhance a variety of applications. Optical support platforms are available to provide stable mounting surfaces for optical components at any orientation, angle and height on the post. Our Quick Disconnect Optical Rod Clamps allow components to be detached and attached quickly and easily, which is beneficial when changing or experimenting with different setups. The 625-RC Kinematic Mirror Mounts enable precise beam positioning for 2, 4, and 6 in. diameter mirrors, with either 100-TPI adjustment screws or micrometers for an orthogonal 10° angular adjustment range.