Slit Mask Blank Fabrication Development - Metal Spinning
The prototype slit mask blanks shown below were fabricated by Ace
Metal Spinning, Los Angeles, CA. The tooling costs for metal spinning
are relatively low, which makes spinning an attractive choice for
prototyping. The repeatability of the process is operator-dependent,
which makes spinning less attractive for the large quantity of parts
ultimately required for this application.
(Images can be clicked on to view a larger version)
Aluminum Slit Mask Fabrication -
Metal Spinning of Alum. Shells
Protoype slit masks have been fabricated using a metal spinning technique.
This image shows the hardwood tool upon which the masks are shaped.
Metal Spinning of Alum. Shells
This image shows a part (not an IMACS mask!) being spun.
The metal blank is spun by an (antique!) lathe headstock,
while a tool (the white roller) is used to force the part against a master.
IMACS Slit Masks
These images show pairs of "flanged" and "flangeless"
masks.
