Lubricating a condenser iris?

Cyclops · Post by **Cyclops** » Sun Oct 15, 2006 7:18 am

I noticed yesterday that the iris on my scope's condenser isnt making a circe like it used to.
Instead of a O I'm getting a D if you know what I mean!
Could it be that the grease or whatever is used has dried up? How does one go about lubricating it?
(It does form a circle if encouraged gently with a finger)

rjlittlefield · Post by **rjlittlefield** » Sun Oct 15, 2006 8:03 am

There was discussion of this a few days ago in Yahoo's Microscope group.

Summary is that diaphragms are designed to run dry. Stickiness is often caused by oxidized or dirty oils that should not have been there in the first place. Lubrication may be OK if you're prepared to maintain it.

Cleaning techniques were described.

See http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Micr ... sage/32925 and related messages before/after it.

Also search for "lubrication diaphragm", "lubrication iris", and similar words.

--Rik

Cyclops · Post by **Cyclops** » Sun Oct 15, 2006 8:09 am

Thanks Rik.
Thats interesting! The article mentions using ethyl alcohol, which i believe I have in the form of camera lens cleaner!

Ive had this scope for about 20 years and its been fine up till now. I guess it could be down to not being used for a few years.