This is the final blog of our sapphire windows series, and in our previous blog, we looked at how to select the right sapphire windows. This blog explores what happens next, looking at the customisation options available to tailor a sapphire window to your specific requirements, covering shape, thickness and surface coatings.
Download our Buyers Guide to Sapphire Windows for a more detailed insight into the custom options available for sapphire windows.
Each application places different demands on an optical component, which is why sapphire windows can be customised to match specific requirements rather than being limited to a single standard design.
Geometry and Shape Options
Sapphire windows are available in circular, rectangular, square and large format designs, as well as fully custom shapes. Where a window needs to fit into a specialised housing with a unique interface, advanced machining and laser processing make it possible to produce more complex geometries.
Thickness and Design Considerations
As it determines both pressure resistance and mechanical strength, thickness is one of the most important design variables for any sapphire window. A thicker window offers greater load capacity and impact resistance, but this comes with trade-offs, as it may also reduce optical transmission and add weight. Because of these competing factors, the right thickness needs to be defined through engineering analysis.
Surface Coatings
Surface coatings can extend what a sapphire window is able to do. Anti-reflective coatings reduce surface reflection and improve transmission, while anti-fog treatments help manage condensation in humid environments. For applications with particular wavelength requirements, specialised optical coatings can also be applied.
Any coating should be chosen with thermal exposure and chemical compatibility in mind, as both affect how well it performs over the long term.
How We Support Custom Designs
Customisation typically involves engineering collaboration between our team and yours. Working together, we confirm that your design can be manufactured and that its performance aligns with your application’s requirements.
Contact us to discuss your specific sapphire window requirements and how we can help you find the right solution for your application.