Sapphire Windows

Sapphire Windows

Sapphire’s attributes include high mechanical strength, temperature stability, wear resistance and chemical inertness. As a result, a Sapphire Window will exceed other optical materials in harsh environments, providing a barrier between elements. Sapphire Windows are used commonly in optical and mechanical applications. Our offering includes a wide range of Sapphire Window stock parts as well as sapphire window customization opportunities.

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Explore our extensive selection of Sapphire Window stock parts and order online today. Need something custom? We specialize in creating a wide range of custom optical and mechanical components, from internal holes and tapers to outer flanges, angles, and surface finishes. Contact us for a consultation and we’ll create a custom component that meets all your specifications.


Evaluating if utilizing sapphire windows is the right material for your project? Review our collection of articles and guides:


Circular Sapphire Windows

Our extensive stock list includes a wide range of diameters and thicknesses. They have standard S/D 80/50 or better and random orientation.  We also offer our expertise in developing precision customized sapphire windows manufactured to your project’s specifications, including orientations, surface finishes and materials.
Typical Applications: Gas & Air Analyzers/Monitors, UV & IR Detectors, Endoscopes, High Intensity Lamps, Bar Code Readers, Photodiodes, View Ports
Model Diameter Thickness Material
W1.60 .062/.063” .010/.012” Sapphire
W75.20 2.948/2.952" ..077/.081" Sapphire
W63.25 2.490/2.510" .248/.252" Sapphire
W51.00 1.998/2.002” .245/.255” Sapphire
W50.00 1.998/2.002” .123/.127" Sapphire
W40.00 1.565/1.585" .075/.083" Sapphire
W41.30 1.620/1.630” .039/.041” Sapphire
W49.95 1.998/2.002” .038/.042” Sapphire
W35.00 1.368/1.388" .035/.043" Sapphire
W33.00 1.365/1.385” .165/.175” Sapphire
W38.00 1.490/1.510” .039/.041” Sapphire
W38.10 1.490/1.510” .124/.126" Sapphire
W28.60 1.250/1.252” .019/.021” Sapphire
W30.00 1.171/1.191" .035/.043" Sapphire
W31.80 1.245/1.255" .039/.041” Sapphire
W26.67 .998/1.002” .039/.041” Sapphire
W26.75 .999/1.001” .079/.081" Sapphire
W26.90 .995/1.005” .370/.380" Sapphire
W26.80 .999/1.001” .124/.126" Sapphire
W25.50 .995/1.005” .019/.021” Sapphire
W25.65 .998/1.002” .085/.092" Sapphire
W25.00 .982/.986” .088/.092" Sapphire
W24.76 .973/.978” .039/.041” Sapphire
W23.80 .936/.938” .039/.041” Sapphire
W22.50 .895/.905” .194/.199" Sapphire
W22.23 .866/.868” .0386/.0409" Sapphire
W22.20 .855/.866” .0740/.0838 Sapphire
W20.00 .7854/.7894" .0747/.0827" Sapphire
W19.25 .748/.752" .250/.252" Sapphire
W19.05 .745/.755" .035/.045" Sapphire
W17.78 .695/.705" .038/.042” Sapphire
W19.02 .748/.756" .0185/.0209" Sapphire
W17.27 .675/.680" ..077/.081" Sapphire
W16.00 .623/.627" .1855/.1895" Sapphire
W15.88 .624/.626” .079/.081" Sapphire
W15.75 .624/.626” .039/.041” Sapphire
W15.50 .624/.628" .018/.022” Sapphire
W15.00 .5906/.6004" .0748/.0827" Sapphire
W14.30 .557/.567" .038/.042” Sapphire
W13.25 .500/.502” .0885/.0906” Sapphire
W13.15 .499/.501” .061/.063” Sapphire
W13.08 .500/.515” .018/.022” Sapphire
W13.50 .498/.502" .123/.127" Sapphire
W12.77 .497/.503” .038/.042” Sapphire
W12.75 .499/.501” .019/.021” Sapphire
W12.65 .499/.501” .024/.026” Sapphire
W12.57 .495/.505” .010/.012” Sapphire
W12.55 .487/.497” .037/.041” Sapphire
W12.00 .468/.472” .008/.012” Sapphire
W11.11 .433/.441" .018/.022” Sapphire
W10.00 .3937/.4017” .038/.042” Sapphire
W9.53 .370/.380" .015/.025” Sapphire
W9.58 .373/.377” .038/.042” Sapphire
W10.16 .399/.401” .055/.057” Sapphire
W9.35 .3661/.3700” .1830/.1870” Sapphire
W9.30 .3661/.3700” .0275/.0323” Sapphire
W9.10 .357/.363” .009/.011” Sapphire
W7.87 .308/.312” .060/.065” Sapphire
W7.85 .309/.313” .018/.022” Sapphire
W7.75 .297/.301” .018/.021” Sapphire
W7.62 .291/.301” .009/.010" Sapphire
W7.00 .2746/.2766” .019/.021” Sapphire
W7.49 .293/.297” .014/.016” Sapphire
W7.10 .280/.282” .0045/.0055” Sapphire
W7.05 .272/.278" .037/.043" Sapphire
W6.34 .244/.250” .060/.065” Sapphire
W6.60 .260/.264” .009/.011” Sapphire
W6.36 .249/.251” .0898/.0906” Sapphire
W6.35 .249/.251” .148/.152” Sapphire
W5.00 .1969/.2008” .0374/.0413” Sapphire
W6.33 .249/.251” .019/.021” Sapphire
W6.30 .247/.249” .030/.032” Sapphire
W4.07 .159/.161” .019/.021” Sapphire
W4.75 .186/.188” .0332/.0352” Sapphire
W4.62 .182/.192” .019/.021” Sapphire
W3.81 .145/.155” .039/.041” Sapphire
W3.43 .1345/.1355” .048/.052” Sapphire
W2.48 .0980/.0984” .0179/.0215” Sapphire
W0.94 .0365/.0375” .0034/.0046” Sapphire

Not seeing exactly what you need?

We specialize in creating a wide range of custom optical components and custom mechanical components including a variety of shapes - from internal holes and tapers to outer flanges, angles and surface finishes. Contact us (800-922-0118) and we will consult with you to create a custom component that meets all of your specifications.


Rectangle Sapphire Windows

We carry a variety of rectangle sapphire window dimensions. We also offer our expertise in developing precision customized sapphire windows manufactured to your project’s specs and tolerances.
Typical Applications: Gas & Air Analyzers/Monitors, UV & IR Detectors, High Intensity Lamps, Bar Code Reader, Photodiodes, View Ports, Optical Applications
Model Length Width Thickness Type
SP-110-2 1.49/1.51" .999/1.001" .009/.011" polish both sides
SP-110-1 1.49/1.51" .999/1.001" .009/.011" polish one side only
SP-112 .361/.369" .311/.319" .0061/.0098" sapphire window
SP-114 1.118/1.126" .921/.929" .014/.018" sapphire window
SP-103 .484/.516" .130/.132" .027/.037" sapphire window
SP-103A .484/.516" .115/.122" .027/.037" sapphire window

Not seeing exactly what you need?

We specialize in creating a wide range of custom optical components and custom mechanical components including a variety of shapes - from internal holes and tapers to outer flanges, angles and surface finishes. Contact us (800-922-0118) and we will consult with you to create a custom component that meets all of your specifications.


Square Sapphire Windows

From stock we offer two square sapphire window sizes for quick delivery. We also offer our expertise in developing precision custom sapphire windows manufactured to your project’s specs and tolerances.
Typical Applications: Gas & Air Analyzers/Monitors, UV & IR Detectors, High Intensity Lamps, Bar Code Reader, Photodiodes, View Ports, Optical Applications
Model Length Width Thickness Type
SP-124 .495/.499" .495/.499" .038/.040" sapphire window
SP-128 .995/1.000" .995/1.000" .038/.040" sapphire window

Not seeing exactly what you need?

We specialize in creating a wide range of custom optical components and custom mechanical components including a variety of shapes - from internal holes and tapers to outer flanges, angles and surface finishes. Contact us (800-922-0118) and we will consult with you to create a custom component that meets all of your specifications.


Comparison of Materials

Property Sapphire Fused Silica (Quartz) Borosilicate Glass Silicon Carbide (SiC) Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2)
Optical Transparency Excellent (UV to IR) Excellent (UV) Good Poor Excellent (IR) Excellent (UV & IR)
Thermal Stability Excellent Good Moderate Excellent Moderate Good
Mechanical Strength Very High Moderate Low Very High Low Low
Chemical Resistance Excellent Good Good Excellent Moderate Good
The information presented is a synthesis of data from multiple sources and is intended to provide a general overview. It may not represent absolute values or reflect the latest developments. For the most accurate and current information, please refer to the original sources.

Optical Sapphire Window Applications

Here are seven current and popular applications of optical, sapphire windows:

  1. Military Applications: Sapphire windows are extensively used in military applications due to their robustness and optical clarity. They are integrated into military weapon systems, guidance systems, and for protection of sensors and imaging devices. The U.S. Air Force is funding projects to develop large-area sapphire windows for infrared (IR) sensing applications, highlighting the material's importance in defense technology.
  2. Aerospace: Sapphire windows are utilized in aerospace for their ability to withstand extreme temperatures, high pressures, and harsh environmental conditions. They are used in commercial and military aircraft to protect sensors and optical systems from fast-moving particulates and chemical exposure. Sapphire's hardness and wide transmission range make it ideal for use in aircraft and drones.
  3. Underwater Vehicles: High-pressure environments, such as those encountered by Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), benefit from the durability and optical clarity of sapphire windows. These windows can withstand pressures up to 10,000 psi and resist algae growth, ensuring clear visibility and protection for imaging systems in underwater explorations
  4. Medical Devices: In the medical field, sapphire windows are used in endoscopes and other diagnostic equipment due to their biocompatibility, scratch resistance, and ability to endure sterilization processes. Their optical clarity ensures precise imaging, which is critical for medical diagnostics and procedures.
  5. Industrial and Environmental Monitoring: Sapphire windows are also used in industrial and environmental monitoring equipment. Their resistance to chemical corrosion, high temperatures, and abrasive environments makes them suitable for use in furnaces, gas and oil analysis devices, and other harsh industrial applications. They ensure long-term durability and accurate measurements in demanding conditions.
  6. Consumer Electronics: Sapphire windows are used in consumer electronics, particularly in high-end watches, smartphones, and camera lenses. Their scratch resistance and optical clarity make them ideal for protecting screens and lenses, providing durability and improved user experience in everyday use.
  7. Semiconductor: In the semiconductor industry, sapphire windows are used as substrates for growing high-quality epitaxial layers for LEDs, lasers, and other optoelectronic devices. The material's excellent thermal and chemical stability, as well as its ability to be polished to an extremely smooth finish, make it suitable for these high-precision applications. Sapphire's transparency across a wide wavelength range also makes it valuable for photolithography and inspection processes in semiconductor fabrication.

Technical Specifications and Characteristics of Sapphire Windows

Material Properties
  • Chemical Composition: Al₂O₃ (aluminum oxide)
  • Hardness: Mohs 9 (second only to diamond)
  • Density: 3.98 g/cm³
  • Melting Point: 2040°C
  • Thermal Conductivity: 25 W/mK at 300K
  • Thermal Expansion Coefficient: 5.3 x 10⁻⁶ /°C
Optical Properties
  • Transmission Range: 0.15 to 5.5 µm (UV to mid-IR)
  • Refractive Index: 1.76 at 550 nm
  • Optical Clarity: High transmission with minimal absorption across a wide wavelength range
  • Surface Quality: Can achieve scratch-dig specifications of 10-5 and surface roughness ≤ 0.3 nm RA
Mechanical Properties
  • Compressive Strength: 2,000 MPa
  • Young's Modulus: 400 GPa
  • Fracture Toughness: 2.3 MPa·m¹/²
  • Flexural Strength: 500 MPa
  • Tensile Strength: 300 MPa
Chemical Resistance
  • Chemical Stability: Resistant to most chemicals except for very hot caustics and fluorine
  • Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, and other corrosive substances
Thermal Properties
  • Maximum Operating Temperature: Up to 2030°C
  • Thermal Shock Resistance: High resistance to rapid temperature changes
  • Cryogenic Performance: Retains high thermal conductivity at cryogenic temperatures, outperforming copper
Environmental Durability
  • Pressure Resistance: Withstands pressures up to 10,000 psi
  • Abrasion Resistance: Extremely resistant to wear and scratching
  • Environmental Factors: Durable against harsh environments such as saltwater, sand, and high-speed particulates
Key Features
  • High Optical Transmission: Clear visibility across a wide wavelength range
  • Exceptional Hardness: Superior resistance to scratching and abrasion
  • Thermal Stability: Operates effectively across a wide temperature range, including extreme conditions
  • Chemical Inertness: Maintains integrity in harsh chemical environments
  • Mechanical Strength: High resistance to pressure and mechanical stress
  • Customization: Available in various shapes and sizes, with custom fabrication options including stepped edges, elliptical shaping, and mounting features

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What are sapphire optical windows?
Sapphire optical windows are transparent optical components made from synthetic sapphire. They are used in applications requiring high durability, optical clarity, and resistance to extreme conditions.
What are the main benefits of using sapphire optical windows?
The main benefits include:
  • High hardness and scratch resistance
  • Excellent optical clarity and transmission
  • Wide transmission range from UV to IR (0.15 to 5.5 microns)
  • High thermal conductivity
  • Chemical resistance to acids and alkalis
  • High mechanical strength

Material Properties

What is the hardness of sapphire?
Sapphire has a Mohs hardness of 9, making it the second hardest natural material after diamond.
What is the transmission range of sapphire optical windows?
Sapphire windows have a transmission range from approximately 150 nm (UV) to 5.5 microns (IR), with high transmission in the visible spectrum (85% to 90%).
How does the thermal conductivity of sapphire compare to other materials?
Sapphire has high thermal conductivity (approximately 25 W/m·K at 300 K), making it suitable for high-temperature applications.

Technical Specifications

What are the typical thickness tolerances for sapphire windows?
Thickness tolerances typically range from ±0.1 mm to ±0.01 mm, depending on the specific requirements of the application.
What surface quality can be expected from sapphire windows?
Surface quality specifications are often given as scratch-dig numbers, such as 60-40, 40-20, or 20-10, indicating the maximum allowable scratch width and dig diameter.
Can sapphire windows be coated to enhance performance?
Yes, sapphire windows can be coated with anti-reflective (AR) coatings, high-reflective (HR) coatings, or other custom coatings to improve optical performance.

Applications

In which industries are sapphire optical windows commonly used?
Sapphire optical windows are used in various industries, including:
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Semiconductor manufacturing
  • Medical and scientific instruments
  • Industrial inspection and sensors
  • High-power lasers and optics
Can sapphire windows withstand harsh environmental conditions?
Yes, due to their chemical inertness, thermal stability, and mechanical strength, sapphire windows can withstand harsh environments, including high temperatures, corrosive chemicals, and high-pressure conditions.

Ordering and Product Customization

Does Henyuan Sapphire Optics stock standard size sapphire windows?
Yes, Henyuan Sapphire Optics has a catalog of stock windows in a wide range of sizes, we offer three forms circular, rectangular or square.
Can I order custom-shaped sapphire windows from Henyuan Sapphire Optics?
Yes, custom shapes, sizes, and thicknesses can be manufactured to meet specific application requirements. Customizations include flat windows, domes, and prisms.
Can Henyuan Sapphire Optics provide special fabricated windows?
Henyuan Sapphire Optics can provide windows with holes or notches and other machined customizations.
What is the smallest size window Henyuan Sapphire Optics Company can supply?
Our offering includes a wide range of Sapphire Window stock parts as well as sapphire window customization opportunities. The smallest sapphire window from stock is Circular and has a diameter of 0.037” (0.94mm). We can customize to smaller specs if needed.
What tolerances do you typically hold?
Tolerance will depend on the end-product in the application. Here are several product types with tolerances to use as a guideline.
  • Balls: Diameter +/- 0.0001” (2.5um)/Sphericity: < 0.000025” (0.625um)
  • Sapphire Windows: Diameter +/- 0.002” typical/Thickness +/- 0.001” Typical/Surface Finish: Scratch/Dig 80/50 or better
  • Orifice Jewel: Inner Diameter (ID) +/-.0001”
Henyuan Sapphire Optics has extensive experience in a wide range of applications. The best way to ensure that the tolerances will meet your needs is to contact us and review the product and application.
Does Henyuan Sapphire Optics do smaller run production runs?
Henyuan Sapphire Optics can handle smaller production runs that range from singles to thousands. Typically, five pieces to 100 pieces will constitute a smaller run. There are no extra fees or charges for this service.
Do you offer smaller Research & Development (R & D) runs?
At Henyuan Sapphire Optics, we understand that providing the “proof of concept” is a critical component to bring a new product to the market. We can work with engineering and production teams to create parts that accommodate specs and tolerances for a project then supply small R&D runs. Depending on the part, this can range from a few pieces up to approximately 100 pieces.
Can Henyuan Sapphire Optics supply OEM volume production?
Henyuan Sapphire Optics can supply OEM volume, including finished, in-stock products for “Just-In-Time” (JIT) delivery. The company features a complete product offering with capabilities that range from supplying smaller OEM customers with quantities in the 100’s; to the large OEM with product requirements in the millions.