Product Overview
Sapphire domes are high-performance optical components made from
single-crystal aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), renowned for their
exceptional hardness, optical clarity, and thermal stability. With
a Mohs hardness of 9, just below diamond, sapphire domes provide
outstanding resistance to scratches, abrasion, and environmental
damage. Their superior transmission from ultraviolet (UV) through
infrared (IR) wavelengths makes them ideal protective windows and
sensor housings for demanding optical and aerospace applications.
Each sapphire dome is precisely polished and shaped to ensure
minimal optical distortion and maximum strength under pressure.
Thanks to their excellent mechanical properties, sapphire domes
maintain structural integrity in extreme conditions such as high
velocity, vacuum, high temperature, and corrosive atmospheres.
Key Features
High Hardness and Strength – Second only to diamond, ensuring exceptional durability and
protection in harsh environments.
Wide Spectral Transmission – Excellent optical transparency from 170 nm (UV) to 5 µm (IR).
Superior Thermal Stability – Can operate steadily at temperatures above 1600°C in air.
Chemical Resistance – Inert to most acids and alkalis, ideal for corrosive or
high-pressure systems.
Precision Geometry – Manufactured with tight tolerances and polished to optical-grade
surface quality (<10 Å RMS).
High Impact Resistance – Perfect for aerodynamic applications requiring resistance to
high-speed particles or pressure differentials.
Applications
Optical Protection Windows for cameras, sensors, and laser systems.
Infrared Domes for missile seekers, drones, and aerospace instruments.
Underwater Optical Systems such as deep-sea cameras and lidar housings.
Industrial and Scientific Equipment requiring optical access under high temperature or pressure.
Laser and Defense Systems for protecting sensitive optical assemblies from mechanical and
thermal stress.
Specifications (Typical)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Material | Monocrystalline Sapphire (Al₂O₃) |
| Diameter | 5 mm – 200 mm (customizable) |
| Wall Thickness | 0.5 mm – 10 mm |
| Transmission Range | 170 nm – 5 µm |
| Surface Finish | <10 Å RMS |
| Operating Temperature | Up to 1900°C (vacuum/inert gas) |
| Refractive Index | 1.76 @ 0.55 µm |
FAQ
Q1: Why use sapphire instead of glass for domes?
A1: Sapphire offers much higher hardness, temperature resistance,
and transmission range than glass, making it ideal for high-speed,
high-temperature, or abrasive environments.
Q2: Can sapphire domes be anti-reflection (AR) coated?
A2: Yes. Customized AR, IR, or broadband coatings can be applied to
optimize transmission for specific wavelength ranges.
Q3: Are sapphire domes suitable for underwater use?
A3: Absolutely. Their excellent strength, chemical inertness, and
optical clarity make them ideal for underwater cameras and sensor
housings.
Q4: Can the shape and curvature be customized?
A4: Yes. Both inner and outer radii, thickness, and aperture can be
fully tailored according to design requirements.
