Chapter 9

Protection Methods
for Optics
This chapter explains how to wrap and package optics for short- and
long-term storage. It also explains how to wrap components for
shipping to a vendor or customer.
Once an optic is cleaned, the next steps are to wrap and/or store it,
protect it from the elements, keep it free of contaminants, and prevent
any possible damage. The methods presented have been developed over
many years and have been used by the military, commercial, and optical
industries. Wrapping methods use tissue, envelopes, and clamshell
packaging, or a mixture of these materials.

9.1 Tissue
Wrapping optics with tissue is the most common method used to protect
them. There are two basic types of tissue, white and brown. White tissue
is processed with acid, whereas brown is not. The issue with white tissue
is that moisture will leach acid used in the manufacturing process onto
the optic and etch the glass or coatings. The MIL specs call for wrapping
glass with brown tissue only, and this tradition is still carried on today.

Acid-free white tissue is now available for archival use; it is suggested for use with
uncoated optics, although brown tissue should be used with coated optics such
as metallic coated mirrors. Either tissue can be used so long as it is acid free.

171

Downloaded From: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/ on 13 Oct 2019

Terms of Use: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/terms-of-use
 172 Chapter 9

Figure 9.1 Different methods of wrapping optics.

The wrapping process is a series of simple steps. The tissue (1–2

layers thick) should be sized 10–20% larger than the part. There are
two popular methods: either cut the tissue short to allow the back
surface to be exposed or cut the tissue so that it overlaps the back
of the optic. Use the one that best protects the optic; Fig. 9.1
illustrates different methods. After the tissue is cut, place the optic
in the center of the tissue, fold top and bottom ends over the optic,
and tape in place. Fold the left and right ends over the optic, and
tape in place.

9.2 Envelopes
The envelope is a handy method to wrap optics for shipping or
storage; Fig. 9.2 illustrates several kinds. It has a cost advantage over
other types of packaging and is manufactured to standard sizes. Pick a
size slightly larger than the optic. If the shape of the optic has strong
curves or is thick, it may require an envelope two to three times its
size. The envelope can be sealed using the glue on the flap or by taping
the flap in place.

Downloaded From: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/ on 13 Oct 2019

Terms of Use: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/terms-of-use
 Protection Methods for Optics 173

Figure 9.2 Various types of envelopes: paper, plastic, vellum, pocket, and cloth.

Envelope paper fibers can damage optical surfaces. If the surface

quality of an optic is critical (laser or reticle), then other storage
methods should be used. For extra protection, the optic can be wrapped
in tissue; uncoated optics can be stored in the envelope as is. Transparent
glassine bags or envelopes are free of paper fibers and will reveal what is
inside.

Plastic bags with seals can also be used to store or cover optics.

The envelope can be labeled on the outside using a stamp or

attaching a pre-printed label. The envelopes can be bundled together
in groups of two to five using a rubber band. As with any wrapping or
storage method, test to see what works best.

9.3 Containers for Storage

Cardboard boxes (Fig. 9.3) are commonly used to contain optics.
They are inexpensive, easy to use, and readily available. They range in
size and type. The simple two-size box set (one box fits inside the

Downloaded From: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/ on 13 Oct 2019

Terms of Use: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/terms-of-use
 174 Chapter 9

Figure 9.3 Simple cardboard boxes.

other) can be secured by tape. The optic is wrapped in tissue or in an

envelope.
A clamshell is a molded plastic container for storing optics;
Figs. 9.4–9.6 illustrate different kinds of clamshell designs. This

Figure 9.4 Clamshell or molded container (image courtesy of Empire West

Company).

Downloaded From: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/ on 13 Oct 2019

Terms of Use: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/terms-of-use
 Protection Methods for Optics 175

Figure 9.5 Rectangle clamshell or molded container; note the different internal
shapes (image courtesy of Empire West Company).

Figure 9.6 Round clamshell or molded container; note the different internal
shapes (image courtesy of Empire West Company).

type of containment has advantages over the envelope and tissue;

for one, it is manufactured in different shapes and styles. It is easy
to clean and can be reused several times by blowing any dust off or
wiping with a damp or dry cloth. Although the essential cost of the
plastic can be high for small volume quantities, the value is in its
reuse.

Downloaded From: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/ on 13 Oct 2019

Terms of Use: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/terms-of-use
 176 Chapter 9

Figure 9.7 Catalog and custom-made foam containers (courtesy of Tempo Plastic
Company).

The clamshell can be designed to hold optics on their edges. One

side has the shape to fit the optic, and the other side is molded to
secure the optic by holding it firmly in a shaped pocket.
Foam-style containers are molded to hold one part or any selected
amount (see Fig. 9.7). The container’s overall size is larger, given the
molded pockets or inserts. The pockets can be shaped to the outline of
the optical part. In most designs, the container is divided in half to
allow the lid to be lifted and provide easy access to the optic.

Membrane packaging is an alternative for critical or small optics. A plastic

membrane is stretched over the molded container; the optic is suspended
within the membrane.

Downloaded From: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/ on 13 Oct 2019

Terms of Use: https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/terms-of-use