Description of Optical Prism
In this article, we will introduce you to several different types of optical prisms. Of course, there are many types of optical prisms. In this article, we will only briefly explain the more commonly used optical prisms.
Different Types of Optical Prism
1. Right-angle prism
The most commonly used is the right-angle prism, which is generally composed of geometric shapes. The common angle is a triangle of 45°-90°-45°. Because of this feature, the right-angle prism can deviate or move the light path very well. The main function of the right-angle prism is what we said about the deviation of the light path by 90° and the displacement of the image.
Application of right-angle prism
① Medical instruments
② Laser alignment
③ Telescopes and microscopes
2. Roof Prism
Roof prisms are distinguished by their roof-like structure, which facilitates total internal reflection to bend and invert light by 90°. A common example is the Amici roof prism, which maintains a right-handed image.
Applications of Roof Prism
①Spotting scopes
②Microscopes
③Telescope eyepieces
3. Dove Prism
Dove prisms come in two variations: uncoated and coated. The uncoated type rotates an image by twice the prism’s rotation angle, producing a left-handed image, whereas the coated type reflects a beam back onto itself, producing a right-handed image.
Applications of Dove Prism
①Imaging around corners
②Interferometry
③Medical imaging
4. Penta Prism
Penta prisms feature five faces, with two perpendicular faces ensuring a consistent 90° deviation of incoming light without inversion or reversal.
Applications of Penta Prism
①Display systems
②Surveying and plumb level measurements
③Spectroscopy
Choosing the Right Prism for Your Application
Selecting the appropriate prism involves considering multiple factors:
1. Functionality
Do you need light deviation? Right-angle prisms and penta prisms are ideal.
Do you require image inversion? Roof prisms and dove prisms offer effective solutions.
Are you working with spectral dispersion? Equilateral prisms are optimal.
2. Substrate Material
Prisms are made from different materials based on operational requirements:
BK7 Glass: Standard material offering high transmission for visible and near-infrared wavelengths.
Fused Silica: Ideal for UV applications due to its low absorption and high thermal stability.
CaF2 (Calcium Fluoride): Used in applications requiring low dispersion and extended UV transmission.
3. Environmental Considerations
Temperature fluctuations: Fused silica and CaF2 withstand extreme conditions.
Moisture resistance: CaF2 are preferred for humid environments.
High-energy laser applications: Fused silica and BK7 are effective due to their damage resistance.
Optical Prisms at MOK Optics
This guide covers common optical prism designs, but many additional options exist. MOK Optics specializes in custom prism solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether for laser systems, spectroscopy, or medical imaging, we ensure high-precision manufacturing to meet your requirements.
For more information or to place a custom order, contact MOK Optics today.