Countering environmental effects in optical systems using Kapton tape

Optical systems are frequently used in non-laboratory environments. Extra-orbit launch accelerations, gunfire vibrations, and temperature fluctuations can put dangerous stresses on lenses. In addition to general mechanical ruggedization, Kapton® tape was added to optical surfaces as a go-between for the glass/crystal and the metal structure components. The thought behind this was that using a softer surface interface would act as a sort of cushion for the optics. Kapton® tape has a CTE nearly matching that of Aluminum 6061-T6 and has an effective temperature range of -269°C to 400°C, which makes it an ideal material for use in systems both at or outside of room temperature values. Hand calculations formulated from equations postulated by experts Paul Yoder and R.J. Roark were used in conjunction with Finite Element Analysis via ANSYS. Practical examples used in the field were cited as well.