Thin Optical Window
Thin Optical Windows are precision-polished optical components designed to protect sensors, detectors, imaging assemblies and laser systems while minimizing added thickness, weight and optical path length. Chenyu Optics manufactures thin optical windows from UV fused silica, BK7, sapphire, borosilicate glass and other optical materials, with available thicknesses starting from 0.10 mm, uncoated or with wavelength-optimized AR coatings.
Thin Optical Window Overview
Thin Optical Windows are precision-polished optical components designed to protect sensors, detectors, imaging assemblies and laser systems while minimizing added thickness, weight and optical path length.
They are particularly suitable for compact instruments and optical assemblies with limited installation space. Chenyu Optics manufactures thin optical windows from UV fused silica, BK7, sapphire, borosilicate glass and other optical materials, with available thicknesses starting from 0.10 mm depending on the selected material, window dimensions, surface specifications and handling requirements.
Round, square, rectangular and custom-shaped windows are available with uncoated surfaces or wavelength-optimized AR coatings. Thickness tolerance, parallelism, surface quality, flatness, edge geometry and coating performance can be customized according to the application.
Key Advantages of Thin Optical Window
Compact Sensors & Imaging Assemblies
Thin optical windows are widely used to protect sensors, detectors and laser assemblies in instruments where installation space and added optical path length must be kept to a minimum.
Typical Specifications of Thin Optical Window
| Materials | UV Fused Silica / BK7 / Sapphire / Borosilicate Glass / Other Optical Materials |
|---|---|
| Optical Function | Protection and optical transmission |
| Shape | Round / Square / Rectangular / Custom |
| Diameter / Size | Customized |
| Thickness | From 0.10 mm, depending on material and dimensions |
| Thickness Tolerance | Customized |
| Clear Aperture | Customized |
| Surface Flatness | Customized |
| Surface Quality | 20-10 / 40-20 / 60-40 scratch-dig |
| Parallelism | Customized |
| Edge Treatment | Ground / Fine Ground / Polished / Chamfered |
| Coating | Uncoated / UV AR / VIS AR / NIR AR / Broadband AR |
Spectral Transmission Curve (Typical, UV Fused Silica)
Why Choose Chenyu Optics for Thin Optical Window
Chenyu Optics focuses on drawing-based precision manufacturing of thin, lightweight optical windows for compact and space-constrained optical assemblies. We support prototype verification, small-batch production and repeat manufacturing across multiple substrate materials.
Manufacturing Capability for Thin Optical Window
Precision Polishing
Careful grinding and polishing procedures suited to thin, fragile substrates down to 0.10 mm.
Optical Coating
UV AR, VIS AR, NIR AR and broadband AR coating options for wavelength-optimized performance.
Inspection & Packaging
Dimensional inspection, thickness and parallelism verification, and protective packaging for thin, fragile parts before shipment.
Custom Manufacturing Options for Thin Optical Window
Dimensions & Geometry
Custom diameter, thickness and shape can be manufactured according to customer drawings, including round, square, rectangular and custom outlines.
Surface & Mechanical Quality
Thickness tolerance, parallelism, surface flatness, surface quality and edge treatment can be selected according to optical performance and handling requirements.
Coating & Wavelength Design
Uncoated, UV AR, VIS AR, NIR AR and broadband AR coatings can be specified for the target wavelength range and application.
Thin Optical Window Material Comparison
| UV Fused Silica | BK7 | Sapphire | Borosilicate Glass | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission | UV to NIR, approx. 0.18 – 2.5 μm | Visible to NIR, approx. 0.35 – 2.0 μm | UV to MWIR, commonly 0.2 – 5.5 μm | Visible range, approx. 0.35 – 2.0 μm |
| Refractive Index | Approx. 1.46 @ 587.6 nm | Approx. 1.52 @ 587.6 nm | Approx. 1.76 | Approx. 1.47 – 1.52, grade dependent |
| Mechanical Notes | Low thermal expansion, good chemical durability | Standard optical glass, cost-effective, moderate hardness | Very hard and chemically durable, best for thin, rugged windows | Good thermal shock resistance, economical |
| Typical Use | UV instrumentation, laser systems, high-transmission windows | General-purpose visible-range protective windows | Harsh environment windows, ultra-thin rugged covers | Cost-sensitive sensor and detector protection |
Applications of Thin Optical Window
Sensor & Detector Protection
Lightweight cover windows for compact sensor and detector packages.
Imaging Assemblies
Low-thickness windows that minimize impact on optical path length.
Laser Systems
Thin, high-transmission windows for laser beam protection and delivery.
Portable Instruments
Reduced weight and footprint for handheld and portable devices.
Medical & Analytical Devices
Compact protective windows for space-constrained instrument housings.
Compact Optical Assemblies
Custom-shaped windows for tightly packaged optical systems.
Thin Optical Window FAQ
How thin can an optical window be manufactured?
Chenyu Optics can manufacture thin optical windows starting from 0.10 mm thickness, depending on the selected material, dimensions and handling requirements.
Which materials are available for thin optical windows?
Thin optical windows can be manufactured from UV fused silica, BK7, sapphire, borosilicate glass and other optical materials.
What shapes are available for thin optical windows?
Round, square, rectangular and custom shapes are available according to the application and mounting requirements.
Can thin optical windows be AR coated?
Yes. Uncoated surfaces or wavelength-optimized AR coatings, including UV AR, VIS AR, NIR AR and broadband AR, can be specified.
What information should I provide for a quotation?
Please provide material, diameter or dimensions, thickness, surface flatness, surface quality, coating requirement, quantity and drawing if available.
Where can I learn more about optical window materials?
Additional optical window material information can be found from Edmund Optics.
Related Products for Thin Optical Window
Need Custom Thin Optical Windows?
Send us your drawing, material preference, dimensions, thickness and coating requirements. Chenyu Optics will review the optical and mechanical specifications and provide a suitable thin window manufacturing suggestion.