Customizable Sapphire Tubes KY Method , 4" Polished unti-scratching High Hardness

Customizable Sapphire Tubes KY Method, 10mm–100mm Polished

Our KY-grown sapphire tubes represent the pinnacle of high-performance ceramic tubing solutions, combining exceptional material properties with precision engineering. These single-crystal α-Al₂O₃ tubes are specifically designed for applications demanding ultra-high purity, optical clarity, and extreme environmental resistance. The Kyropoulos (KY) growth method ensures superior crystalline structure compared to alternative manufacturing techniques, while our proprietary polishing process delivers surface finishes meeting the most stringent optical requirements (Ra <0.02μm).

These tubes outperform conventional materials like quartz and polycrystalline alumina across multiple parameters: with a Mohs hardness of 9 (second only to diamond), they exhibit 3× greater mechanical strength than quartz; their thermal stability range (-200°C to 1,800°C) surpasses most engineering ceramics; and their chemical inertness makes them ideal for corrosive environments. The combination of these properties makes our sapphire tubes indispensable for advanced applications in semiconductor processing, high-power laser systems, scientific instrumentation, and industrial high-temperature processes.

Key Features of Sapphire Tubes

1. Material Excellence

• Crystalline Perfection: >99.99% pure α-Al₂O₃ single crystal structure with controlled C-axis orientation
• Low Defect Density: <10 defects/cm² as measured by etch pit testing (ASTM F47)
• Optical Homogeneity: Δn <5×10⁻⁶ across entire tube length

2. Precision Manufacturing

• Dimensional Control: ID/OD tolerances to ±0.01mm for critical applications
• Length Capability: Up to 500mm in single-crystal form (longer lengths via special bonding)

3. Thermal Performance

• Thermal Conductivity: 35 W/m·K at 25°C (6× higher than quartz)
• Thermal Expansion: 5.3×10⁻⁶/K (25-500°C), matching many metal alloys
• Thermal Shock Resistance: Withstands ΔT >500°C (water quench test per ASTM C1525)

4. Mechanical Properties

• Flexural Strength: 600-800 MPa (3-point bend, ASTM C1161)
• Compressive Strength: >2 GPa
• Young's Modulus: 400 GPa

5. Optical Characteristics

• Broadband Transmission
• Birefringence: <5 nm/cm (compensated for laser applications)

Applications of Sapphire Tubes

1. Advanced Laser Systems

• Laser Gain Media Tubes: For excimer, CO₂, and fiber lasers requiring low optical loss
• Beam Delivery Components: Laser nozzle liners resistant to 10kW+ power densities
• Nonlinear Optics: Frequency conversion crystals for UV generation

2. Semiconductor Manufacturing

• CVD Reactor Components: Liners for SiC and GaN epitaxial growth systems
• Plasma Etch Shields: Erosion-resistant components for dielectric etchers
• Ion Implantation: Beamline components with minimal particle generation

3. High-Temperature Industrial

• Thermal Process Tubes: For sapphire crystal growth furnaces (up to 2,100°C)
• Molten Metal Handling: Thermocouple protection tubes for aluminum/superalloy processing
• Combustion Analysis: Flame tubes for turbine engine test stands

4. Scientific Instrumentation

• Synchrotron Beamlines: X-ray windows and monochromator components
• Cryogenic Systems: Low-temperature sample holders (4K compatibility)
• High-Pressure Cells: Diamond anvil cell components for >100GPa research

5. Medical Technology

• Surgical Laser Delivery: Endoscopic components for holmium/YAG systems
• Diagnostic Equipment: MRI-compatible sensor housings
• Dental Handpieces: Sterilizable bearing components

FAQ

Q1: What are the limitations of KY-grown sapphire tubes compared to EFG?

While KY growth produces superior optical quality crystals, it has two primary limitations:

1. Length Constraint: Maximum single-crystal length is typically 500mm due to thermal gradient limitations in the growth process
2. Growth Striations: Characteristic growth lines may require additional polishing for ultra-high precision optics

Q2:What are the packaging standards?

We employ aerospace-grade packaging:

1. Primary: Class 100 cleanroom vacuum-sealed bags
2. Secondary: Custom foam-insulated transit cases