Dear All,
Yesterday I asked for advice on a vendor of reliable vuv lenses (my application: imaging of tripled 355 nm, 118 nm). I received a number of replies and wanted to provide a quick summary of the results. There is no consensus on a single vendor. A handful of different vendors were suggested. Others also mentioned that they've had problems identifying a vendor they considered reliable. I contacted all the vendors mentioned asking for a price quote on a d = 1", f = 2" plano convex lens for use in my application. So far I've only heard back from one vendor on price and specifications.
vendors of vuv lenses where the users reported good results with lenses purchased:
ReflexUSA http://www.reflexusa.com (I heard back from them promptly. They quoted a price of $795 for one lens in either LiF or MgF2. I asked which they thought would be the best choice for my application, and they said they could not express an opinion. I do know from experience that a good LiF lens will remain free of damage for a long time. However, there are potential problems of reduced transmission due to water at the surfaces or formation of color centers.)
Crystran, UK [log in to unmask]
ISPoptics http://www.ispoptics.com
Sorem http://www.sorem-france.com/english/index.htm
Other vendors mentioned, but without actual experience from a vuv lens purchased from them:
esource www.esourceoptics.com. They have prices posted on their site, which are competitive. However, for vuv at or below 120 nm, the MgF2 lenses they have are all fairly long fl. They have some shorter fl CaF2 lenses, but their transmission is poor below 140 nm.
Claser http://www.claserinc.com. They were cited as a vendor of inexpensive but reliable components. However, their site does not show any lenses made from LiF or MgF2. I have emailed asking if they do in fact supply such lenses but have not yet heard back.
I'll make another posting later if/as I obtain new information.
Cheers
Mark Sulkes
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