Optics, such as lenses and mirrors, play a vital role in various fields, including photography, microscopy, and laser systems. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of these optical components, it is crucial to handle and clean them correctly. Here are some recommendations for the proper handling and cleaning of optics based on my experience in optical laboratories in academia:
- Wear Gloves and Use an Air Puffer: When handling optics, it is crucial to wear gloves to prevent fingerprints from getting on the optical components. To keep the optics clean, use an air puffer, which is a rubber bulb that puffs air when squeezed. This helps remove dust particles that may have accumulated on the optics.
- Avoid Compressed Air Cans: It is not recommended to use compressed air cans that are commonly used for cleaning dust out of keyboards and personal computers. These cans can sometimes squirt out a liquid that leaves a residue on the optics when held at a non-vertical angle. Therefore, it is best to avoid using them to prevent any potential damage to the optics.
- Do Not Blow Dust with Your Mouth: Blowing dust off the optics with your mouth is not advisable as it can result in spit residue being deposited on the optics. This residue can be difficult to remove and may affect the performance of the optics. Always start by using an air puffer to blow the dust off the optical component that needs cleaning.
- Cleaning Optics with Lens Cleaning Tissue: For optics that require further cleaning, you can use lens cleaning tissue. It is important to note that Kimwipes should not be used as lens cleaning tissue. Before cleaning, fold up a piece of lens cleaning tissue into a small pad. It is recommended to wear gloves while doing this to prevent oil from your fingers from depositing on the optics.
- Use Locking Forceps and Mild Solvent: Hold the lens cleaning tissue pad in a pair of locking forceps. Curved forceps are preferred, but straight forceps will also work. Add a couple of drops of a mild solvent to the lens cleaning tissue. While some experts swear by Sparkle Glass Cleaner, a purple solution commonly found in the house cleaning aisle, others prefer using ethanol or isopropyl alcohol.
- Gentle Wiping and Disposal of Used Tissue: Shake off any excess solvent from the lens cleaning tissue, then make one gentle wipe across the optic. It is important not to scrub the optic, as this can cause damage. After using the lens cleaning tissue, dispose of it in the trash. If the optic requires further cleaning, start again with a fresh lens cleaning tissue. Avoid using the same tissue for more than one wipe, as particles picked up by the tissue can scratch the optic if reused.
- Special Tip for Small Flat Surfaces: For cleaning small flat optical surfaces, such as mirrors, a simple and effective method involves placing a few drops of cleaning solution in the middle of the optical component. Next, place an optical tissue on top of the solution and ensure that the tissue adheres to the entire optical surface. Gently slide the tissue sideways to remove it from the surface, which results in a perfectly clean surface without any streaks. If needed, repeat the process several times using fresh sheets of optical tissue. Please refer to the image provided to visualize the process.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure proper handling and cleaning of optics, maintaining their functionality and preventing any potential damage or scratches.
Side note: Of course, when dealing with more sophisticated optics, it is necessary to employ more sophisticated cleaning methods and protocols.
Feature photo: Ulrike Boehm, CC BY 4.0
For further information or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
