Flat-plate Cylindrical Lenses PBCL25-1064-F50

Overview

This Flat-plate Cylindrical Lens is a planar, polarization-dependent diffractive optical element that focuses light along a single axis, forming a focal line rather than a focal point. It is built as a sandwich of two N-BK7 glass substrates enclosing a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) functional layer, in which the fast-axis orientation is continuously graded along one transverse (x) axis to create cylindrical optical power. Because the phase profile varies continuously, the response is free of spherical aberration and every ray across the clear aperture converges to a common focal line. Depending on the polarization state of the incident beam the element acts as a converging or diverging cylindrical lens. This unit operates at 1064 nm with a focal length of 50.0 mm.

Applications

• Line focusing and laser line generation
• Beam shaping (circular-to-elliptical) and anamorphic correction of diode beams
• Light-sheet illumination and slit illumination for spectroscopy
• Polarization-controlled cylindrical focusing in compact planar assemblies
• Imaging and metrology setups requiring one-dimensional focusing

Construction & Performance

The lens has a flat plate form (total thickness 3.2 mm) with no ground curved surface: the cylindrical power is produced by the radially/linearly graded orientation of the liquid crystal molecules along the x-axis, enabling micron-level fabrication precision together with large dispersion. As a single-axis element it forms a focal line perpendicular to the powered axis. Key specifications for this model:

• Operating Wavelength: 1064 nm
• Focal Length: 50.0 mm
• Clear Aperture: Ø21.5 mm
• Optical Component Size: Ø25.4x3.2 mm
• Substrate Material: Liquid Crystal Polymer/N-BK7 Window Plate
• Diffraction Efficiency: >98%
• Surface Quality (Scratch/Dig): 60/40
• AR Coating Reflectance: Ravg<0.5% (0° incidence)
• AR Coating Band: 700-1100 nm
• Operating Temperature: -20 to 80 deg C

Storage & Handling

Handle the element by its edges and avoid contact with the clear aperture. Keep the optical surfaces free of dust and fingerprints; when cleaning is needed, use clean optical-grade solvents and lens tissue. Note the orientation of the powered axis when mounting so the focal line lies in the intended plane. Store in the original container in a clean, dry environment within the rated operating temperature range, away from direct sunlight, condensation and corrosive vapors.