Zinc sulfide (ZnS) is a key optical crystal widely used in infrared imaging systems, military optics, and precision manufacturing. While ZnS offers excellent infrared transmission and mechanical strength, it is also extremely brittle and prone to edge chipping during processing. Traditional cutting tools struggle to achieve clean, crack-free surfaces on ZnS, making advanced cutting technology essential.
This article introduces how endless diamond wire saws provide an ideal solution for cutting ZnS materials with superior surface quality and minimal material loss.
ZnS crystals are known for:
- High infrared transmittance (8–12 μm range)
- Extreme brittleness and low fracture toughness
- Poor thermal conductivity (leading to thermal stress issues)
- High hardness compared to traditional optics
These characteristics make it a challenging material to process, especially for thin wafers or precision lenses. Any mechanical or thermal stress can lead to microcracks or chipping.
Why Endless Diamond Wire Saw Is Ideal for ZnS
Endless diamond wire saws use a closed-loop wire coated with diamond abrasive. This method offers several advantages over blades, lasers, or ID saws:
- Ultra-thin kerf (typically around 0.35 mm) to reduce material waste
- Minimal mechanical stress thanks to smooth wire motion
- No heat-affected zone, preserving optical integrity
- Superior surface finish, often requiring no post-polishing
- Compatible with thin slices, down to 0.1 mm thickness
Cutting Performance Case: ZnS Wafers for IR Applications
In recent infrared lens production lines, customers use Vimfun endless wire saws to slice ZnS into 0.3–1.0 mm wafers:
- Surface roughness: < 3.0 μm (no cracks or edge damage)
- Yield rate: Improved by over 25% compared to blade cutting
- Cycle time: Faster with programmable multi-slice function
Optional fixture customization allows accurate holding of round or square ZnS substrates, preventing micro-movements during slicing.
Equipment Recommendation
- SGR20: For prism Cutting
- SG20: For efficient Slicing
- SH60-R / SGSM 40: For larger wafers or faster throughput in production lines
All models support adjustable wire speed, fine feed control, and wet-cutting with filtered coolant.
ZnS is a critical material in infrared optics, but its extreme brittleness requires a specialized cutting solution. Endless diamond wire saws provide the precision, surface quality, and process safety needed for modern ZnS wafer production.
Looking for the best equipment to process ZnS?
Contact Vimfun to explore a customized solution for your material and application.