SOUTH WINDSOR, CT – Coburn Technologies, Inc., the world’s leading provider of computer-integrated ophthalmic lens processing systems and ophthalmic instruments, in collaboration with SDC Technologies (SDC), a recognized global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance specialty coatings, will launch CrystalChrome®, a breakthrough photochromic system for optical labs at Vision Expo West in Las Vegas. This novel lens coating technology brings an exciting dimension to Coburn’s acclaimed spin coating offering and represents the first major product development collaboration with its new parent, SDC, combining Coburn’s spin coating know how with SDC’s coating expertise. CrystalChrome allows optical labs the ability to transform any clear semi-finished blank or surfaced lens into a high-quality photochromic lens.
Photochromic is a growing segment in the industry. Traditionally, labs that offer these products maintain a substantial inventory of photochromic semi-finished blanks in a variety of materials and colors to provide timely delivery to their customers. CrystalChrome enables on-demand production of photochromic lenses, reducing costs of delivering these premium products and eliminating inventory of semi-finished blanks while still allowing for quick turn-around.
“The new CrystalChrome technology is a breakthrough opportunity for optical labs to incorporate their very own photochromic lens coating process,” stated Coburn Technologies, Inc. President, Alex Incera. “Now labs can provide high performance light-reactive lenses to their customers in less time and at a lower cost than traditional sourcing methods.”
Key Features:
- Best-in-class photochromic performance on all lens materials
- Fast darkening and fading speeds
- Exceptional optical clarity
- Excellent product durability and stability
- Compatibility with anti-reflective and metallizing treatments
- Fast drying, thermal cure
- Superior abrasion and chemical resistance
- Available in CrystalChrome GY for gray color and CrystalChrome BN for brown color tint versions
“In development of the CrystalChrome photochromic coating solutions, we ensured that the final product would offer high performance on all lens materials, fast darkening and fading speeds, and excellent durability and stability,” stated SDC Technologies President and CEO, Richard Chang. “Optical labs can expect best-in-class performance through our patented proprietary coatings that are tailored for front-side spin coating. The CrystalChrome system and coatings will streamline lab processes and enhance profitability.”
The CrystalChrome system can be easily integrated into any lab and is capable of meeting dynamic production needs, regardless of lens material. CrystalChrome delivers outstanding value and can prove to be highly profitable for many labs.
“CrystalChrome represents what the Coburn and SDC partnership is all about; providing innovative solutions for optical lens treatments that leverages each company’s unique expertise,” comments Incera. “We initiated our collaboration in early 2023 by introducing anti-fog coating to our Velocity 2D Spin Coater. Subsequently, in the case of the CrystalChrome suite of products, our goal is to make photochromic applications more accessible in the eyecare industry through a spin coating system that is easy to integrate, operate, maintain, and can satisfy customer demand and increase revenue. We think the industry will benefit from this exciting new development.”
CrystalChrome will be on display for the first time at the Coburn Technologies booth F6065 at Vision Expo West at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 27-30. Coburn encourages attendees to stop by and get a first look at CrystalChrome.
ABOUT COBURN TECHNOLOGIES
Coburn Technologies, Inc. is the world’s leading provider of computer-integrated ophthalmic lens processing systems and ophthalmic instruments. We design, manufacture, and service software equipment and supplies used in all aspects of surfacing prescriptions in lens blanks, coating and finishing lenses to fit into patient frames. We provide a broad range of diagnostics, refraction, and retinal imaging equipment for a more complete solution to the eye care professional. Coburn Technologies is American owned and globally headquartered in South Windsor, Connecticut USA. Learn more at coburntechnologies.com.
ABOUT SDC TECHNOLOGIES
Founded in 1986, SDC Technologies, Inc. is headquartered in Irvine, California. SDC was acquired by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. in 2008. SDC is a recognized global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance specialty coatings used in a variety of applications from aerospace and automotive parts to vision eyewear. Visit us at sdctech.com.
©2023 Coburn Technologies, Inc.
Coburn Technologies is a wholly owned subsidiary of SDC Technologies, Inc.
CrystalChrome® is a registered trademark of SDC Technologies, Inc.
