Optical Encoder Discs
Encoder discs are one of our specialties at Photo Solutions.
From OEM applications to one-off special purpose designs, our 30 years of encoder disc manufacturing has realized a multitude of designs and form factors. We can fabricate encoder discs in diameters from 5mm to 600mm and have engineered custom tooling and production processes for mission critical designs. We offer precision manufacturing in various encoder materials including glass, quartz, film, and aluminum. We can complete custom orders on special composite configurations that enable easy and accurate installation at your facility. We welcome unusual and custom design projects.
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Glass Encoder Discs
Chrome on glass encoder disc offers the highest degree of accuracy due to the extreme flatness and precision of the etched photo pattern. We use CAD data to create the discs from customer specifications to generate a high-resolution glass master from which the parts are printed. Glass discs are usually shipped in under two weeks after data approval. Disc ODs are available from 5mm – 300mm with thicknesses from .010” to .120”.
Transmissive Mode Glass Discs
We offer transmissive glass discs for OEM and high performance applications. Standard disc configuration is soda lime glass with low reflective chrome (LRC) @ 2.8 optical density and up to 5.0+ if needed. For extreme performance requirements such as sine wave applications, ultraflat quartz material can be specified. Borosilicate glass is also available for high temperature applications.
Reflective Mode Glass Discs
High reflective chrome (HRC) coating is available with >60% reflectivity. Material configurations include high reflective / transparent patterns or high reflective patterns with ultra low reflective chrome deposited on the backside of the disc to eliminate unwanted reflections from other components. Gold coating for high performance applications is available and we can even image discs with both transmissive and reflective patterns if needed.
Mylar Encoder Discs
Mylar discs are an excellent choice for low-cost applications. Our automated process can provide precision PET (Mylar) code discs that offer great cost savings in both production or prototype quantities. These code discs are printed on photographic PET film with a .18 mm thick base. Vision recognition die punch equipment or laser cutting systems cut the ID/OD to within .025mm of the pattern. This allows the customer to static fit the disc to a hub and hold pattern eccentricity to below .05mm TIR. We can provide laser cut registration holes and cutouts to precisely align the photo pattern to your device. Options include peel-off liners to protect the optical surface during assembly and bonding to acrylic substrates to increase thickness and stiffness. A great low-cost alternative for many applications.
Reflective Mylar Encoder Discs
Our PET composite discs are available with pressure-sensitive adhesive for easy mounting to your device. We can provide these peel-and-stick discs and scales with protective liners and laser cut registration features for easy installation. Available options include bonding to acrylic substrates to increase thickness and stiffness.
Reflective Aluminum Encoder Discs
For high temperature applications, we offer aluminum discs that can withstand extreme environmental conditions in diameters up to 250mm.
Other Products
Hub & Disc Assembles
Encoder Scales
Product Materials
Hub & Disc Assembles
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I have used 5 of the 10 tone wheel that we purchased so far.
Best looking ones I have seen for years on my test equipment.
My capstan motors are back in spec. Nice to see flutter tests
And time base error test back to normal. Thanks to you and your team.
Andrew D. McCray | Model Maker
Analog Devices Federal, LLC | Trusted Security Solutions
