This is my first post; but I've kept up with this site for years. I've read about packaging a mirror for shipment thru prior posts but I do not find information on protecting the coated face. I would greatly appreciate any feedback on what type of "tissue" and if special, where it is typically obtained from. Thank you.
Packaging a mirror
Started by frednnoodle, 09/07/2005 03:09AM
Posted 09/07/2005 03:09AM
Opening Post
Posted 09/07/2005 03:22AM
#1
Hello:
Depending on the size of the mirror in question, you may be able to wrap the mirror in kimwipes or large lens tissues. I recall hearing that kimwipes aren't so good for optical surfaces, so I think lens tissues are preferable. My 12.5" mirror from Discovery Telescopes arrived this way. We recently received a 16" mirror. A thick cotton pad was secured to a cardboard disk, and this was placed cotton side down to protect the mirror surface. The mirror plus cardboard were in a foam lined box. I think you could get the same protection by gluing a bunch of cotton balls to a piece of cardboard. Of course, you could just mummy wrap your mirror in TP.
Cheers
Mike Connelley
Depending on the size of the mirror in question, you may be able to wrap the mirror in kimwipes or large lens tissues. I recall hearing that kimwipes aren't so good for optical surfaces, so I think lens tissues are preferable. My 12.5" mirror from Discovery Telescopes arrived this way. We recently received a 16" mirror. A thick cotton pad was secured to a cardboard disk, and this was placed cotton side down to protect the mirror surface. The mirror plus cardboard were in a foam lined box. I think you could get the same protection by gluing a bunch of cotton balls to a piece of cardboard. Of course, you could just mummy wrap your mirror in TP.
Cheers
Mike Connelley
Posted 09/07/2005 12:41PM
#2
John, if you use the packing method prescribed by Spectrum Coatings (http://www.spectrum-coatings.com/Telescope-Mirror_Packing.htm), then all you really need is the large tissue available at gift shops. With the hard foam they recommend, nothing bears against the concave face except at the extreme edge. Just wrap the entire mirror with two or three layers of tissue and you're good to go.
Doug
Doug
Funding Member
