PPG and Flō-Optics have entered into an exclusive supply agreement to enable digitally applied optical coatings with PPG HI-GARD lens coatings. This partnership combines 3D printing technologies with precision coating solutions to open new dimensions in optical manufacturing, from increased functionality to more efficient production methods.
In addition to more functional lenses, the process makes coating more efficient by reducing material consumption and energy requirements during production, while offering faster turnaround times compared to traditional methods.
“Since the inception of PPG Hi-Gard coatings, our approach has been to provide innovative, protective optical solutions that are on the cutting edge of technology,” said Zachary White, PPG global segment manager, new markets, Optical Monomers and Coatings. “PPG has a history of successfully collaborating with disruptive companies like Flō, leveraging technological and manufacturing know-how to introduce step-change advancements to the industry.”
“Pairing PPG’s coatings expertise with Flō’s breakthrough manufacturing technology opens the door to completely transform the way optical products are designed and developed into future-ready solutions,” White said. “Flō’s technology has the potential to redefine the way optical lens products are created in prescription laboratories.”
Flō’s technology enables advanced customization and automation through multi-material and multi-layer techniques, reducing production complexity and delivering consistent quality. PPG HI-GARD lens coatings maintain the optical quality of plastic lenses and make them four to six times more abrasion resistant than uncoated lenses.
“Flō shares PPG’s vision for a more sustainable future where lens coating stacks are created in a smarter, optimized and automated environment that expands flexibility, enhances quality and minimizes complexity,” said Jonathan Jaglom, Flō chairman and CEO. “Our path forward with PPG leverages untapped possibilities in the optical industry and draws upon our combined expertise.”
The collaboration between PPG and Flō-Optics revolutionizes the manufacturing of optical products by combining 3D printing technology and advanced coating processes. This promises an era of greater precision, efficiency and sustainability in the optical industry, benefiting both manufacturers and end users. This new technology will redefine optical products by enabling the design and development of solutions ready for future demands.
Flō will showcase its 3D printing technology at Vision Expo West, September 27-30, 2023 in Las Vegas.
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