Leviton 3- Micron Aluminum Oxide Lapping Film (Pack of 100) 49886-3F

Product Information

Specification

A 3-micron aluminum oxide lapping film is a finer grade compared to the 12-micron film and is used for more delicate polishing and finishing applications where a smoother surface finish is required.

About:

The 3-micron designation refers to the average diameter of the aluminum oxide particles used as the abrasive on the film. This small particle size yields a very fine abrasive action.The particles are typically coated on a high-strength polyester backing in a resin adhesive, ensuring that they are evenly distributed for consistent performance.

Common Applications:

• Fiber Optic Polishing: One of the most common uses of 3-micron lapping film is in the finishing of fiber optic connectors. A high-quality finish on fiber optic ends ensures low light loss and back reflection, which is crucial for maintaining the quality of the signal.

• Precision Polishing of Hard Materials: Materials such as ceramics, composites, and hardened metals might require a controlled polishing process. A 3-micron aluminum oxide lapping film can be used to achieve the desired surface finish on these materials.

• Semiconductor Wafer Processing: In semiconductor manufacturing, the wafer surface needs to be immaculately smooth. Lapping films are used in the planarization and polishing steps of wafer processing.

• Optical Components: Lenses, mirrors, and other precision optical components require extremely smooth surfaces to function correctly. The controlled abrasion from a lapping film helps achieve the necessary optical clarity and precision.

• Hard Disk Drive Repair: When hard disk drives are manufactured or repaired, the surfaces of the disks need to be polished to ensure they are flat and free from imperfections that could lead to read/write errors.

Features:

Abrasive Quality: Aluminum oxide is a very hard, durable abrasive that can effectively cut and polish a wide range of materials, including metals, ceramics, and glass.

Precise Particle Size: The 3-micron particle size provides a specific level of abrasiveness that is ideal for intermediate stages of polishing, where it removes material at a moderate rate while producing a relatively fine surface finish.

Uniformity: The aluminum oxide particles are typically coated onto the backing in a controlled manner to ensure a uniform distribution. This results in a consistent finish and helps prevent scratches or other surface defects.

Flexible Backing: The flexible backing material (often polyester) allows the film to be used on contoured surfaces and wrapped around polishing tools or fixtures.

Compatibility: These films are designed to be compatible with various lapping machines and hand-polishing tools, providing versatility in application.

Standards:

Telecommunications: For fiber optics, standards such as Telcordia, IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) might specify requirements for films used in polishing connectors.

Semiconductor: SEMI (Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International) standards could be relevant for films used in wafer processing.

Optical: ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standards can apply to films used for polishing lenses and mirrors.

Specification:

• color: Yellow
• Type: Fiber Optic Lapping Film

Construction:

The flatness and uniformity of the lapping film's surface enable it to polish or finish a corresponding flat surface on the workpiece. The film is lubricated with a liquid (often water or an oil-based lubricant) to facilitate the cutting action and to carry away debris that results from the abrasive process.