Editorial Technical Reference

Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc

This page explains how Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc is classified within Manufacture of Measuring, Testing, Navigation and Control Equipment. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

High-resolution glass disc with etched radial patterns for angular position sensing

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc

Definition
The Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc is a component used in optical rotary encoders for angular position sensing. It is a precision-engineered glass disc with microscopic radial gratings etched onto its surface. The disc serves as the core sensing element, converting mechanical rotation into precise digital position signals. It enables accurate angular measurement in closed-loop control systems for industrial automation, robotics, and CNC machinery. The disc's pattern quality directly determines encoder resolution, accuracy, and repeatability.

This component is manufactured from borosilicate glass with a chrome coating. The grating resolution ranges from 1000 to 10000 lines per revolution, with line pitch accuracy of ±0.5 μm. The disc diameter varies from 25 to 150 mm, and the mounting bore diameter from 6 to 30 mm. Surface flatness is maintained within ≤0.5 μm. The operating temperature range is -40 to 85 °C. The material is specified as soda-lime glass in the parameters, though the materials on file list borosilicate glass; this discrepancy should be clarified with the supplier. Coating reflectivity is at least 85%, and substrate thickness ranges from 1.0 to 3.0 mm. Angular accuracy is ±2 arcseconds, and maximum rotation speed is 10000 rpm. The ingress protection rating is IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529, and weight ranges from 5 to 50 g.

These values are reference ranges for directory purposes and must be verified for the specific model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier. The disc is a component, not a standalone product, and its performance depends on integration with the encoder assembly. Users should confirm that the disc meets their system requirements, including resolution, accuracy, environmental conditions, and mechanical fit. The listed standards are procurement references and do not imply certification of any specific product.
Working Principle
Light passes through or reflects off the radial grating pattern, creating interference patterns detected by photodiodes. As the disc rotates, the alternating transparent/opaque lines modulate light intensity, generating electrical pulses proportional to angular displacement. The grating lines are arranged radially, and the number of lines determines the resolution. The photodiodes convert the light modulation into electrical signals, which are then processed to determine the angular position and direction of rotation. The accuracy of the disc's pattern directly affects the encoder's performance.
Common Materials
Borosilicate Glass, Chrome Coating
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Grating ResolutionRequired1000–10000 lines/revTotal number of radial grating lines
Line Pitch AccuracyRequired±0.5 μmMaximum deviation in grating line spacing
Disc DiameterRequired25–150 mmOverall disc outer diameter
Mounting Bore DiameterRequired6–30 mmCentral shaft mounting hole diameter
Surface Flatness≤0.5 μmMaximum surface deviation from ideal plane
Operating Temperature Range-40–85 °CTemperature limits for reliable operation
MaterialSoda-lime glassHigh thermal stability and optical clarity
Coating Reflectivity≥85 %Enhances signal strength
Substrate Thickness1.0–3.0 mmAffects mechanical rigidity
Angular Accuracy±2 arcsecOverall system accuracy including mounting
Max Rotation Speed10000 rpmLimited by mechanical balance and signal processing
Ingress ProtectionIP54–IP65Higher rating for dusty or wet environmentsIEC 60529
Weight5–50 gDepends on diameter and thickness

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
  • Glass Substrate Part
    Provides dimensional stability and optical clarity
    Material: Borosilicate Glass
  • Chrome Grating Layer Part
    Forms light-blocking radial pattern through etching
    Material: Vacuum-deposited Chrome
  • Anti-Reflective Coating Optional Part
    Reduces stray light reflections for improved signal contrast
    Material: Magnesium Fluoride
  • Protective Overcoat Optional Part
    Shields grating from environmental contamination and abrasion
    Material: Silicon Dioxide

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc.

encoder code disc optical grating wheel rotary scale disc

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: Max rotational speed: 10,000 RPM, Resolution: Up to 50,000 lines/revolution
temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Clean air environments ✓ Sealed optical encoder housings ✓ Precision laboratory equipment
Unsuitable: Abrasive particulate-laden atmospheres
Sizing Data Required
  • Required angular resolution (lines/revolution)
  • Shaft diameter and mounting method
  • Required operating speed range (RPM)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Contamination-induced signal degradation
Cause: Accumulation of dust, oil, or debris on the grating surface, leading to optical interference, reduced light transmission, and erroneous position readings.
Mechanical wear or misalignment
Cause: Physical damage from vibration, shock, or improper installation causing disc warping, scratches, or misalignment relative to the read head, resulting in signal loss or inaccuracy.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Intermittent or erratic position readings or encoder output errors
  • Audible grinding or scraping noises during rotation
Engineering Tips
  • Implement a clean, sealed environment with proper filtration to prevent contaminants from reaching the grating surface, and use protective covers if exposed.
  • Ensure precise mounting and alignment during installation, and regularly check for mechanical stability to minimize vibration and shock impacts.

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 230-2:2014 (Geometric accuracy of machines) ANSI/ASME B89.1.12 (Dimensional measuring equipment) DIN 876 (Flatness and parallelism of measuring surfaces)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.005mm
  • Grating pitch uniformity: +/-0.1μm
Quality Inspection
  • Interferometric flatness test
  • Optical diffraction efficiency measurement

Manufacturers of Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc

Manufacturer profiles associated with Precision Optical Encoder Grating Disc.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical grating resolution range for this disc?

The grating resolution is typically between 1000 and 10000 lines per revolution. The exact value depends on the specific model and application, so it must be confirmed with the manufacturer.

What materials are used for the disc?

The disc is made of borosilicate glass with a chrome coating. However, the parameter list mentions soda-lime glass. This discrepancy should be clarified with the supplier to ensure the correct material for your application.

What is the operating temperature range?

The operating temperature range is -40 to 85 °C. This range indicates the limits for reliable operation, but actual performance may vary depending on the encoder assembly and environmental conditions.

What ingress protection ratings are available?

The disc is rated IP54 to IP65 according to IEC 60529. This rating indicates protection against dust and water, but the actual rating depends on the encoder housing and installation. Verify with the manufacturer for your specific configuration.
Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Data Basis

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

Preliminary Technical Classification
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