SVG, Livermore Open Manufacturing Center for NIF Optics

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL; Livermore, CA) and the Silicon Valley Group (SVG; San Jose, CA) have dedicated the manufacturing center designed specifically for the manufacture of the optical components for the $1.2 billion National Ignition Facility (NIF; Livermore, CA). The optical manufacturing contract is something of a departure for SVG, best known for its work in the deep ultraviolet lithographic steppers use to manufacture silicon chips. With the 1997 acquisition of Tinsley Labs (Richmond, CA), however, the company acquired a significant precision optics skill base.

Located in Richmond, CA, the $10 million manufacturing center will use computer-controlled fabrication techniques to produce optical components with diameters as large as 1.3 ft. SVG provided the funding for the building, while LLNL funded the manufacturing equipment. A staff of 40 new engineers and skilled technicians will work in the jointly owned facility, which also will be available for future aerospace research and other commercial purposes on a non-interfering basis with the work for NIF.

When completed, the NIF will perform laser-induced fusion ignition of deuterium/tritium pellets, allowing weapons scientists to glean necessary data about nuclear weapons without performing actual tests.