What is Blocking?
Blocking is a crucial stage in ophthalmic manufacturing where an uncut lens blank is temporarily attached to a holder – known as a block – to allow precise shaping and alignment.
The lens is centred and secured using adhesives, thermal plastics, or light-curable materials. This alignment ensures the optical centre matches the patient’s prescription accurately. The block provides a stable base for grinding and edging, making blocking a precision-critical process that directly impacts the final fit and function of the lens.
Process Cooling for Blocking in Ophthalmic Laboratories
Temperature control is vital during the blocking process. The adhesives and machines involved can generate significant heat, which may lead to lens distortion or bonding issues if not managed properly. Process cooling equipment ensures that optimal temperature conditions are maintained, supporting precise alignment and improving product consistency.
Maintaining a stable cooling environment enhances both the reliability and repeatability of the blocking process.
Key benefits of cooling systems during blocking include:
Recirculating Chillers in the Blocking Process
Recirculating chillers offer precise, closed-loop cooling ideal for the temperature-sensitive demands of ophthalmic blocking. By maintaining adhesive and equipment temperatures within strict temperatures, they help to ensure secure lens bonding, reduce material waste, and support continuous, high-quality output.
Their efficiency and consistency make them a valuable asset for high-throughput labs focused on productivity and accuracy.
Water-to-Water Heat Exchangers for Efficient Cooling
Water-to-water heat exchangers provide another effective solution for temperature control, especially in facilities with integrated water systems. These units offer high thermal transfer performance and are well-suited to labs needing scalable and sustainable cooling.
Though they require more infrastructure and setup, they deliver long-term efficiency and are ideal for operations where environmental impact is a key consideration.
Heat Transfer Fluids for Cooling Systems
Choosing the right heat transfer fluid is essential for efficient blocking operations.
Fluid selection should considered consider thermal conductivity, viscosity, chemical stability, and compatibility with system materials. The right fluid ensures optimal performance, equipment protection, and environmental safety.
Each option offers different properties:
Efficient and cost-effective, ideal for most systems.
Suitable for lower temperatures and corrosion resistance
Stable under extreme conditions and chemically inert
Tolerant of high temperatures, used in specialist setups.
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