Editorial Technical Reference

Scanning Mirror

This page explains how Scanning Mirror is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A precisely controlled reflective optical component that directs and steers laser or light beams in scanning systems.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Scanning Mirror

Definition
A scanning mirror is a critical optical component within scanning mechanisms that precisely reflects and redirects laser beams or light sources to create controlled scanning patterns. It functions as the movable element that determines the scanning path, resolution, and accuracy of the overall system by rotating or oscillating under precise motor control. The mirror is typically mounted on a galvanometer or other precision motor system, allowing rotation around one or two axes. When a laser or light beam strikes the mirror surface, the angle of reflection changes proportionally to the mirror's rotation angle, enabling the beam to be directed to specific positions in the scanning field. This controlled deflection creates the scanning pattern required for applications such as laser marking, 3D scanning, or optical sensing. Scanning mirrors are available in various substrate materials, including silicon, fused silica, borosilicate glass, and aluminum with reflective coating. Key parameters include clear aperture (10–50 mm), surface flatness (λ/10 at 633 nm per ISO 10110-5), surface quality (20-10 scratch-dig per ISO 10110-7), reflectivity (>99.5%), angular scan range (±20°), scan frequency (100–2000 Hz), position accuracy (±0.01°), repeatability (±0.005°), operating temperature (-10–50°C), storage temperature (-20–70°C), substrate material (BK7, fused silica), coating type (dielectric), weight (0.05–0.5 kg), and dimensions (20–80 mm). These values are typical ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application. The mirror's performance directly impacts system resolution and accuracy, making proper selection and verification essential.
Working Principle
The scanning mirror operates by being mounted on a galvanometer or other precision motor system that rotates the mirror around one or two axes. When a laser or light beam strikes the mirror surface, the angle of reflection changes proportionally to the mirror's rotation angle, allowing the beam to be directed to specific positions in the scanning field. This controlled deflection creates the scanning pattern required for applications like laser marking, 3D scanning, or optical sensing.
Common Materials
Silicon, Fused Silica, Borosilicate Glass, Aluminum with reflective coating
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Clear Aperture10–50 mmDetermines maximum beam diameter
Surface Flatnessλ/10 at 633 nmCritical for wavefront distortionISO 10110-5
Surface Quality20-10 scratch-digHigher numbers reduce scatterISO 10110-7
Reflectivity>99.5 %Coating dependent; for laser use
Angular Scan Range±20 °Mechanical or optical scan angle
Scan Frequency100–2000 HzResonant scanners may reach higher
Position Accuracy±0.01 °Affects image distortion
Repeatability±0.005 °Ensures consistent scanning
Operating Temperature-10–50 °COutside range may affect coating
Storage Temperature-20–70 °CNon-condensing environment
Substrate MaterialBK7, fused silicaFused silica for high power
Coating TypedielectricHigh damage threshold
Weight0.05–0.5 kgDepends on size and material
Dimensions20–80 mmDiameter or length

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Mirror Substrate Part
    Provides the structural base and optical surface for the mirror
    Material: Silicon or Glass
  • Reflective Coating Part
    Enhances reflectivity at specific wavelengths (e.g., dielectric or metallic coatings)
    Material: Aluminum, Gold, or Dielectric layers
  • Mounting Interface Part
    Connects the mirror to the galvanometer shaft or motor
    Material: Aluminum or Steel

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Scanning Mirror.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to 1.5 bar
other spec: Angular velocity: 0-1000 rad/s, Acceleration: 0-10^5 rad/s²
temperature: -20°C to +80°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Clean air/nitrogen environments ✓ Vacuum systems ✓ Inert gas atmospheres
Unsuitable: Abrasive particulate-laden airflows
Sizing Data Required
  • Beam diameter (mm)
  • Scan angle requirement (± degrees)
  • Required scanning frequency (Hz)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Bearing wear or seizure
Cause: Continuous high-speed rotation leads to lubrication breakdown, contamination ingress, or misalignment, causing increased friction, overheating, and eventual failure.
Mirror surface degradation
Cause: Exposure to environmental contaminants (dust, moisture, chemicals) or mechanical abrasion from cleaning, leading to reduced reflectivity, scattering, or coating delamination.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Unusual audible noise (grinding, clicking, or humming) during operation, indicating bearing or motor issues.
  • Visible degradation in scan quality (e.g., distorted lines, reduced accuracy, or inconsistent patterns) or physical damage to the mirror surface.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement a regular lubrication schedule with manufacturer-recommended lubricants and ensure proper sealing to prevent contamination in bearings and moving parts.
  • Maintain a clean operating environment with controlled temperature and humidity, and use only approved, non-abrasive methods for mirror cleaning to preserve optical integrity.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 10110-7:2017 (Optics and photonics - Preparation of drawings for optical elements and systems - Part 7: Surface imperfection tolerances) ANSI/ASME B46.1-2019 (Surface Texture, Surface Roughness, Waviness, and Lay) DIN 3140-7:2016 (Drawing indications for optical elements and systems - Part 7: Surface form tolerances)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Surface flatness: ≤ λ/4 at 632.8 nm (HeNe laser wavelength)
  • Angular alignment accuracy: ±0.001° (for scanning axis orientation)
Quality Inspection
  • Interferometric surface flatness test (using Fizeau or Twyman-Green interferometer)
  • Dynamic balancing test (to ensure minimal vibration at operational rotation speeds)

Manufacturers of Scanning Mirror

5 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

CASTECH INC.
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Galvo Mirrors”
View source page ↗ castech.com · checked 2026-09-14
CHANGCHUN BENA OPTICAL PRODUCTS CO., LTD.
Changchun, Jilin, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Scanning Mirror”
View source page ↗ benaoptics.com · checked 2026-09-05
Scanner Optics Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Galvanometer scanning mirror”
View source page ↗ scanneroptics.com · checked 2026-08-22
Sino-Galvo Technology Co., Ltd.
Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Galvo mirrors Scanning mirror”
View source page ↗ sinogalvo.com · checked 2026-08-31
Visbody Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.
Xian, Shaanxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “3D Body Scanning Mirror”
View source page ↗ visbody.com · checked 2026-09-04

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a scanning mirror used for?

A scanning mirror is used to precisely direct and steer laser or light beams in scanning systems, enabling applications such as laser marking, 3D scanning, and optical sensing.

What materials are scanning mirrors made of?

Common substrate materials include silicon, fused silica, borosilicate glass, and aluminum with reflective coating. The choice depends on the application, especially for high-power lasers where fused silica is often preferred.

What are the key specifications to check when selecting a scanning mirror?

Important specifications include clear aperture, surface flatness, surface quality, reflectivity, angular scan range, scan frequency, position accuracy, repeatability, operating temperature, and substrate material. Always verify these values with the manufacturer for your specific model.

How does a scanning mirror achieve precise beam deflection?

The mirror is mounted on a precision motor, such as a galvanometer, which rotates it around one or two axes. The angle of reflection changes proportionally to the mirror's rotation, allowing precise control of the beam's direction.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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