Optical Components News

In advanced optics, optical windows play a critical yet often understated role. These flat, transparent components are the first line of defense and clarity in optical systems—allowing light to pass through while protecting sensitive internal components. At Sterling Precision, we specialize in the design and manufacturing of custom optical windows that meet the most demanding standards for performance, reliability, and environmental durability.

What Are Optical Windows?

Optical windows are transparent plates made from optically clear materials that allow light to enter or exit an optical system with minimal distortion. Unlike lenses or filters, they are not designed to alter the path or properties of the light—only to transmit it with maximum efficiency and fidelity.

Common applications include:

• Laser systems
• Aerospace and defense optics
• Scientific instruments
• Medical imaging devices
• Environmental sensors and more

Materials Matter: Tailored to Your Application

At Sterling Precision, we offer a wide range of substrate materials to match your application’s spectral, thermal, and mechanical requirements:

• Fused Silica – Broadband UV to IR transmission, low thermal expansion
• BK7 Glass – Cost-effective for visible spectrum applications
• Sapphire – Ultra-hard, chemically resistant, and ideal for harsh environments
• Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) and Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) – For IR systems and laser applications

Each material is selected for its optical clarity, mechanical integrity, and environmental compatibility.

Our Manufacturing Process: Precision at Every Step

Sterling Precision employs a rigorous manufacturing process to ensure your optical windows exceed expectations:

1. Material Selection

We start by sourcing premium optical-grade materials suited to your desired wavelength and performance criteria.

2. Cutting and Shaping

Blanks are cut from raw stock using advanced diamond saws or waterjet systems, then shaped to your exact specifications—circular, rectangular, or custom.

3. Grinding

Surfaces are ground flat and parallel using high-precision abrasives, preparing them for final finishing.

4. Polishing

Polishing is where the real precision happens. Using ultra-fine polishing compounds and pitch tools, we achieve flatness up to λ/10 and surface qualities of 10–5 scratch-dig or better.

5. Cleaning

All windows undergo ultrasonic and chemical cleaning to eliminate particulates and residues—ensuring clarity and performance in optical assemblies.

6. Coating (Optional)

We offer custom coatings applied via vacuum deposition or sputtering:

• Anti-Reflective (AR) for improved transmission
• High-Reflective (HR) for mirror applications
• Durable protective coatings for rugged environments

7. Inspection & Quality Assurance

Using interferometry, microscopy, and rigorous QC protocols, every window is verified for flatness, parallelism, surface finish, and transmission.

8. Clean Packaging

All windows are packaged in cleanroom conditions to preserve their integrity from our facility to your production line.

Why Choose Sterling Precision?

• Custom Engineering Support – We collaborate with you from concept to prototype to production.
• ISO-Certified Quality Systems – Built to meet aerospace, medical, and defense-grade specifications.
• Rapid Turnaround – Agile production capabilities and responsive lead times.
• Made in the USA – All products are proudly manufactured in our state-of-the-art facility.

Partner with Us

Whether you need a high-durability sapphire window for a military-grade application or an ultra-flat fused silica window for a scientific laser system, Sterling Precision is your trusted partner in optical windows manufacturing.