A sapphire dome is a hemispherical or hyper-hemispherical optical window made from synthetic monocrystalline sapphire (α-Al₂O₃). It is not produced from natural sapphire but is manufactured using high-purity aluminum oxide single crystals through specific crystal growth and ultra-precision optical processing techniques. It is the preferred choice for the most demanding applications in high-end optical systems.
Brief: Discover the advanced Custom Monocrystalline Sapphire Optical Domes for Missile Seekers, designed for extreme environments. These sapphire domes offer unmatched durability, broad-spectrum transmission, and high-pressure resistance, making them ideal for high-end optical systems in aerospace and military applications.
Related Product Features:
Made from synthetic monocrystalline sapphire (α-Al₂O₃) for superior optical and mechanical properties.
Features a wide transmission range from UV (0.15 μm) to mid-IR (5.5 μm) wavelengths.
Exceptional surface hardness (Mohs 9) for scratch resistance and long-term clarity.
High compressive strength to withstand extreme hydrostatic pressure and impact.
Chemically inert and thermally stable, resistant to acids, alkalis, and high temperatures.
Low thermal radiation in mid-IR band, crucial for infrared guidance systems.
Hemispherical design provides wide field of view while minimizing aerodynamic drag.
Used in missile seekers, deep-sea exploration, and high-pressure industrial applications.
Faqs:
What are the primary applications of sapphire domes?
Sapphire domes are used in missile seekers, electro-optical pods, deep-sea exploration equipment, and high-pressure industrial systems due to their durability and optical clarity.
Why is sapphire preferred over glass for optical domes?
Sapphire offers superior hardness, broad-spectrum transmission, and resistance to extreme pressures and temperatures, making it ideal for demanding environments where glass would fail.
How are sapphire domes manufactured?
Sapphire domes are grown using methods like HEM or Czochralski, then undergo precise cutting, grinding, and polishing to achieve high optical quality, especially for the inner surface.