Abstract

The use of bound abrasive tools has historical roots in gem stone processing methods extending back for centuries. The broad use of bonded diamond tools for the manufacture of optical components runs only for about the last fifty years. The rapid development in the 1930's of powder metalurgy technology and its application to manufacture of optical tooling represented for the optical shop its most significant advance in methods since Newton's introduction of pitch for polishing tools. The advantage derives in that the "bound" particle is fixed in its system orientation. At work, it is maintained in its position or path and can be driven at elevated speeds; neither of which operating conditions is practically available to "loose" abrasives. The utility of bonded diamond tooling in optical shop operations is most readily perceived in the high rates of stock removal and great dimensional stability.

© 1986 Optical Society of America