Custom Irregular-Shaped Quartz Optical Windows Precision Fused
Silica Viewports
Overview of Quartz Optical Windows
Irregular-shaped quartz glass windows are custom-designed optical
components fabricated from high-purity fused silica. Unlike
standard circular or square window plates, these specialized
windows come in customized forms such as elliptical, polygonal,
arc-edged, stepped, or notched geometries. They are engineered for
systems requiring optical transmission through non-standard
mechanical interfaces or housings, offering high UV–IR
transparency, thermal resistance, and chemical durability.
These windows are essential in cutting-edge optical
instrumentation, aerospace assemblies, biomedical imaging devices,
and laser platforms, where mechanical design demands go beyond
simple flat optics. With excellent surface flatness, low
birefringence, and tight dimensional tolerances, irregular quartz
windows support both functional precision and long-term reliability
in harsh environments.
Manufacturing Principle of Quartz Optical Windows
The production of irregular quartz glass windows involves the
following core processes:
Material Selection
Fused silica blocks (often JGS1 or equivalent) are selected based
on UV–VIS–IR requirements and purity specifications. Synthetic
quartz may be used for deep-UV needs.
CNC Cutting and Waterjet Shaping
Advanced CNC or abrasive waterjet tools shape the raw glass into
complex geometries. This enables production of asymmetrical
contours, internal cutouts, or chamfered designs without
compromising material integrity.
Edge Grinding and Surface Smoothing
After shaping, the glass undergoes fine grinding to refine edges,
improve safety, and prepare for optical polishing.
Precision Polishing
Optical polishing techniques are applied to achieve λ/10 surface
flatness or better, and to minimize scattering or absorption. Both
single- and double-side polishing can be used depending on spec.
Cleaning & Quality Control
Each piece is ultrasonically cleaned, inspected under
interferometers and microscopes, and measured for thickness
uniformity and angular precision.
Typical Specifications of Quartz Optical Windows
| Parameter | Value Range |
|---|
| Material | Fused silica (JGS1, JGS2, UV-grade) |
| Shape types | Elliptical, polygon, arc, stepped, notched |
| Size tolerance | ±0.05 mm or better(customizable) |
| Thickness range | 0.5 mm – 10 mm (customizable) |
| Surface roughness | <10 Å RMS(customizable) |
| Surface flatness | λ/10 @ 632.8 nm(customizable) |
| Parallelism | <30 arcsec(customizable) |
| Transmission range | 185–2500 nm |
| Coating options | AR, HR, dielectric, DLC |
Applications of Quartz Optical Windows
Custom Laser Systems
Integrates seamlessly into laser housings with non-standard ports
or emission shapes.
Spectroscopy & Imaging Equipment
Protects sensitive optics in medical scanners and industrial
analyzers.
Aerospace & Satellites
Used as protective covers for cameras, sensors, or photodetectors
in compact modules.
Scientific Research
Enables optical access in customized experimental chambers or
cryostats.
Semiconductor Machinery
Offers viewports and isolation windows in high-precision patterning
and deposition tools.
FAQ of Quartz Optical Windows
Q1: Can irregular shapes affect optical performance?
A: Not if manufactured correctly. The window’s shape does not alter
its transmission, as long as the optical surface specifications are
met.
Q2: Are these windows compatible with coatings?
A: Yes. AR, HR, and dielectric coatings can be applied to irregular
geometries using masking or robotic processes.
Q3: What’s the smallest feature size you can machine?
A: Features as small as 0.2 mm (e.g., holes, notches) can be achieved
depending on thickness and material.
Q4: Do you offer CAD-based customization?
A: Absolutely. We can work with DXF, STEP, or SolidWorks files to
create precise custom shapes.
Q5: Can they withstand vacuum or high temperature?
A: Yes. Fused silica is highly stable under UHV conditions and can
handle temperatures above 1000°C.
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