With the arrival of free form generating, polishing is an even more critical step in quality lens processing, so Satisloh developed new dual polishing technologies to help laboratories improve surface quality, increase throughput, and provide best process stability. At this year’s MIDO, Satisloh will introduce two new dual spindle soft tool polishing systems: the fully-automated
Duo-FLEX and the manual Toro-FLEX.
Designed for heavy-duty automated production lines, the Duo-FLEX throughput matches that of Satisloh’s VFT Generators. It’s a fully automated, CNC-controlled polishing system that utilizes Satisloh’s multi-use soft tools that are curvature optimized. These unique, long wearing tools consist of a soft, sophisticated foam layer sandwiched between a hard base cap and a process optimized polishing pad. An integrated Tool Management software automatically selects the appropriate tool from a drum loaded with 72 polishing tools and tracks tool usage, alerting the operator when it’s time to replenish any tools. The macro controlled polishing process utilizes lens data and curvature information, and polished lenses are automatically washed and dried before loaded back to job tray.
Toro-FLEX, a cost effective manually loaded system and an excellent choice for entry level digital polishing labs, utilizes an integrated pick-to-light tool management system that simplifies the process and eliminates operator decision making. Simple and robust are hallmarks of the entire Toro series polishing system family and Toro-FLEX is no exception.
Both polishers are built around our proven Tangential Polishing Process and use only seven polishing cap types for the entire working range of free form, toric, or spherical lenses.
“At Satisloh an experienced team of process engineers and machine builders is working to increase process efficiency and lower manufacturing costs for the ophthalmic industry. After successful introduction of our polishing time saving Tangential Polishing Process we built two new polishing machines utilizing this process. Besides the throughput increase of the new process and machines the surface quality of the polished lenses increased also, while maintaining the generated lens power at all times. As result we realized more productive, robust machines with higher yields than ever before,” said Herger Alt, Product Manager of Surfacing Products.