OP8335 Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated Description

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) windows are renowned for their broad transmission range, from ultraviolet to infrared, making them highly versatile for numerous optical applications. With a diameter of 12.7 mm and thickness of 3 mm, these uncoated windows offer low refractive index and inherently low absorption, ensuring minimal signal distortion in demanding environments. The durable crystal structure also provides excellent resistance to thermal shock and chemical wear, making these windows a reliable choice for rigorous laboratory and industrial processes.

Manufactured to strict quality standards, each CaF2 window undergoes meticulous inspection to guarantee high surface quality and parallelism. Their exceptional optical performance supports diverse uses such as spectroscopy, laser systems, and imaging. Whether employed in research facilities or production settings, these high-grade CaF2 windows deliver precise results and long-lasting dependability for your most critical optical tasks.

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated Applications

Calcium fluoride (CaF2) windows with a 12.7 mm diameter and 3 mm thickness are valued for their superior optical clarity and thermal stability. Catering to a broad range of needs, these uncoated windows exhibit low refractive index and minimal dispersion. Reliable in rugged conditions, they serve as excellent choices across industrial, research, and commercial settings for diverse applications.

1. Industrial Applications

·         Used as optical windows for high-power laser systems, due to their thermal stability and low refractive index

·         Ideal for infrared imaging in harsh environments, providing minimal dispersion under variable temperatures

2. Research Applications

·         Employed in spectroscopy experiments due to exceptional UV and IR transmission, ensuring accurate light measurements

·         Suitable for laser-based research setups that demand precise optical alignment and dependable performance

3. Commercial Applications

·         Integrated into medical diagnostic equipment for clear imaging and consistent optical throughput

·         Utilised as protective windows in consumer electronics where both durability and broad spectral transmission are essential

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated Packaging

Each uncoated Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) window, measuring 12.7 mm in diameter by 3 mm thick, is packaged in an anti-static pouch, wrapped in foam lining, and enclosed in a rigid outer container. Proper storage includes a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment, free from dust and contaminants. The windows are sealed to prevent particulate infiltration, ensuring pristine surfaces. Customisation options, including labelled pouches or specialised container sizing, are available for long-term protection and streamlined inventory management.

Packaging: Vacuum sealed, Wooden Box, or Customised.

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated FAQs

Q1: What are the key material properties of Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated ?

A1: Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) windows are prized for their broad transmission range (approximately 130 nm to 10 μm), low refractive index (~1.434 at 10 μm), and high damage threshold, making them ideal for UV, visible, and IR applications. They also exhibit excellent thermal stability, minimal birefringence, and a hardness that provides moderate scratch resistance. These qualities ensure durability and reliable optical performance across diverse scientific and industrial settings.

Q2: How should this product be handled and stored?

A2: Due to their moderate hardness and susceptibility to thermal shock, CaF2 windows should be handled with lint-free gloves and care to avoid scratches or chips. Store them in a clean, dry environment—preferably in a protective container—away from direct sunlight, moisture, or harsh chemicals. To prevent surface contamination, use gentle cleaning methods such as isopropyl alcohol or deionised water with non-abrasive wipes.

Q3: Which quality standards and certifications apply to Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated ?

A3: Manufacturing and testing of these windows typically align with ISO 9001 for quality management and, where relevant, ISO 10110 for optical component specifications. Many suppliers also adhere to MIL-PRF-13830B, which addresses surface quality and scratch-dig parameters. Compliance with these standards ensures consistent performance, dimensional accuracy, and minimal surface imperfections, enabling reliable integration into high-end optical systems and demanding research or industrial applications.

Related Information

1. Manufacturing Process

Comprising precise crystal growth and specialised finishing techniques, the production of Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm, Uncoated involves stringent oversight throughout every stage. The raw CaF2 crystals undergo temperature-controlled melting to achieve uniformity, followed by meticulous shaping of the crystal into the desired dimensions. After a preliminary inspection, ultra-fine grinding and polishing steps are employed to reach the optimal surface quality, ensuring minimal scatter and superior optical transmission in the UV, visible, and IR regions.

During final fabrication, these windows are subjected to high-precision lapping operations to achieve consistency in thickness and diameter, supporting a tight tolerance appropriate for sensitive photonic applications. By maintaining a contamination-free environment, manufacturers are able to preserve the intrinsic low absorption properties inherent in CaF2, making these windows exceptionally well-suited for spectroscopic instruments, laser systems, and other advanced optical devices that demand both durability and clarity.

2. Comparative Analysis with Alternative Materials

Adopting Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) for critical optical setups can enhance system performance when compared to substrates like fused silica or zinc selenide. Owing to its superior transparency in the infrared and ultraviolet ranges, CaF2 allows higher throughput of light, leading to more accurate measurements and reliable data in scientific experiments. Resistance to thermal shock also positions CaF2 as a competitor, especially under rigorous operating conditions.

Notably, these uncoated CaF2 windows exhibit lower fluorescence and scattering compared to other common window materials, making them ideal for high-power laser applications. They also deliver stable performance across a broader range of temperatures, minimising the risk of deformation and distortion. As a result, researchers and engineers often select Dia. 12.7 mm x 3 mm CaF2 windows when designing instruments that require precise light transmission, clarity, and reduced system downtime.