BK7 Optical Window
BK7 Optical Windows are precision optical components designed to transmit visible and near-infrared wavelengths while protecting optical systems from environmental factors in imaging, laser and measurement applications. Manufactured from high-quality BK7 / N-BK7 optical glass substrates with excellent homogeneity and low optical distortion, these windows provide stable transmission and mechanical stability. Chenyu Optics manufactures BK7 optical windows uncoated or with broadband AR, V-coating and custom multi-layer AR coatings.
BK7 Optical Window Overview
BK7 Optical Windows are precision optical components designed to transmit visible and near-infrared wavelengths while protecting optical systems from environmental factors in imaging, laser and measurement applications.
Manufactured from high-quality optical glass substrates with excellent homogeneity, low optical distortion and stable transmission characteristics, BK7 optical windows provide reliable optical performance and mechanical stability. They are widely used in laser systems, imaging equipment, optical instruments, microscopy systems and scientific research applications where accurate light transmission and surface protection are required.
Chenyu Optics supports custom BK7 window manufacturing according to customer drawings, including custom diameter, thickness, substrate and coating design for prototype and repeat production.
Key Advantages of BK7 Optical Window
Imaging, Laser & Optical Instrument Systems
BK7 optical windows are widely used for visible and near-infrared transmission in laser systems, imaging equipment, microscopy systems and scientific research instruments.
Typical Specifications of BK7 Optical Window
| Material | BK7 Optical Glass / N-BK7 / Custom Optical Glass Available |
|---|---|
| Optical Function | Transmitting light while protecting internal optical components |
| Coating Options | Uncoated / Broadband AR Coating / V-Coating / Custom Optical Coating |
| Transmission Range | Approx. 350 nm – 2.5 μm |
| Refractive Index | Approx. 1.517 @ 587.6 nm |
| Diameter | Custom |
| Thickness | Custom |
| Surface Quality | 60-40 to 10-5, depending on requirement |
| Flatness | λ/4 to λ/10, depending on requirement |
| Clear Aperture | Available |
| Parallelism | Custom |
Spectral Transmission Curve (Typical)
Why Choose Chenyu Optics for BK7 Optical Window
Chenyu Optics focuses on drawing-based precision optical glass manufacturing for visible and near-infrared systems. We support prototype verification, small-batch production and repeat manufacturing for non-standard BK7 windows.
Manufacturing Capability for BK7 Optical Window
Precision Polishing
Controlled grinding and polishing procedures for stable optical homogeneity and low wavefront distortion in BK7 glass.
Optical Coating
Broadband AR, V-coating and multi-layer AR coating options for visible and near-infrared applications.
Inspection & Packaging
Dimensional inspection, surface review, optical performance checking and protective packaging before shipment.
Custom Manufacturing Options for BK7 Optical Window
Dimensions & Geometry
Custom diameter, thickness and clear aperture can be manufactured according to customer drawings, with standard or custom window shapes.
Surface & Mechanical Quality
Surface flatness of λ/4 to λ/10 and surface quality of 60-40 to 10-5 can be selected according to optical performance requirements.
Coating & Wavelength Design
Uncoated, broadband AR, V-coating, multi-layer AR and custom optical coatings can be specified for visible and near-infrared applications.
BK7 Window Material Comparison
| BK7 / N-BK7 | Fused Silica | Sapphire | Borosilicate Glass | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission | Visible to NIR, approx. 350 nm – 2.5 μm | UV to NIR, approx. 0.18 – 2.5 μm | UV to MWIR, commonly 0.2 – 5.5 μm | Visible range, approx. 350 nm – 2.0 μm |
| Refractive Index | Approx. 1.517 @ 587.6 nm | Approx. 1.458 @ 587.6 nm | Approx. 1.76 | Approx. 1.47 @ 587.6 nm |
| Mechanical Notes | Good mechanical stability, cost-effective, moderate hardness | High thermal stability, low thermal expansion, chemically durable | Very hard and chemically durable | Moderate thermal stability, cost-effective, lower precision homogeneity |
| Typical Use | General-purpose imaging, laser and instrument windows | UV/NIR laser windows, high-power laser optics | Protective windows, harsh environment optics | General protective glazing, low-cost instrument windows |
Applications of BK7 Optical Window
Laser Systems
Windows for visible and near-infrared laser optical paths.
Imaging Systems
Stable transmission and low distortion for imaging applications.
Microscopy Systems
Precision windows for microscopy and inspection optics.
Optical Instruments
General-purpose windows for optical instrument assemblies.
Machine Vision Systems
Reliable protection windows for machine vision cameras.
Scientific Research Equipment
Precision windows for research and laboratory optical setups.
BK7 Optical Window FAQ
What is the function of a BK7 optical window?
A BK7 optical window transmits visible and near-infrared light while providing protection for internal optical components in imaging, laser and measurement systems.
Why is BK7 glass commonly used for optical windows?
BK7 provides excellent optical homogeneity, good transmission performance, low distortion and stable mechanical properties, making it suitable for a wide range of optical applications.
What coating options are available for BK7 optical windows?
BK7 optical windows can be manufactured with broadband AR coatings, V-coatings, multi-layer AR coatings and custom optical coatings for different wavelength requirements.
Can custom BK7 optical windows be manufactured?
Yes. Chenyu Optics provides customized BK7 optical windows with different sizes, thicknesses, surface quality, coatings and optical specifications according to system requirements.
What information should I provide for a quotation?
Please provide diameter, thickness, surface flatness, surface quality, coating requirement, quantity and drawing if available.
Where can I learn more about optical glass materials?
Additional optical glass material information can be found from Edmund Optics.
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Need Custom BK7 Optical Windows?
Send us your drawing, diameter, thickness, coating requirements and quantity. Chenyu Optics will review the optical and mechanical specifications and provide a suitable BK7 window manufacturing suggestion.