B-Cool being used while grinding on the eSX 150.

OptiCut GPM is ideal when finishing glass optics on the UFF.

In past newsletters, OptiPro has emphasized the importance of coolants for precision optics grinding, specifically the requirements to effectively manufacture precision optics made of a variety of materials. These requirements include:

• Efficient removal of the heat generated in the grinding zone
• Sufficient lubricity for a fast grinding process and optimal material removal rates
• Sufficient flow and pressure to remove glass swarf and maintain a free cutting grinding wheel
• Provide corrosion resistance and limit foaming issues
• Prevent the growth of bacteria
• Allow for a variety of tool bond types, i.e. metal, resin and vitrified while not compromising surface finish quality and tool life

Through countless R&D efforts, OptiPro has determined the best type of coolants when running our eSX optical grinding and UltraForm Finishing (UFF) machines to grind and finish both glass, ceramic, and metallic materials. OptiCut GPM and B-Cool coolants meet the criteria above and, when diluted with DI Water, will yield optimal results.

OptiCut GPM is manufactured by Lighthouse Lubricant Solutions and is a fully synthetic lubri-coolant for slicing, dicing, grinding, and machining a broad range of materials including ceramic, optics, silicon, and quartz crystals.

B-Cool is an exceptionally stable water miscible coolant for long sump life in both centralized systems and stand alone machines. B-Cool works exceptionally well in grinding applications for a wide range of optical materials.

To get the most out of your eSX and UFF machines, OptiPro's APD team recommends using B-Cool when grinding optics on your eSX 150, 200, or 300 machines. When using bound abrasive belts on UFF, we recommend using OptiCut GPM for typical optical materials, and B-Cool for metallic optics.

For more information regarding the OptiCut GPM and B-Cool coolants, contact OptiPro's APD team by sending emails to APD@optipro.com.