Float Window

While floating through the molten tin, the combination of gravity and surface
tension results in smooth and flat surfaces on both sides.

a) Smooth and flat surface and good vision.

b) Excellent optical performance.

c) Stable chemical properties.

d) Resistant to acid, alkaline, and corrosion.

Specification of Float Window
Optical windows are an essential component of many optical systems, including
lasers, cameras, telescopes, and microscopes. They allow light to enter or exit
an optical system while providing a barrier to dust, moisture, and other
contaminants. There are various types of optical windows available, including
sapphire, quartz, and borosilicate glass.

Material Float Glass
Diameter 1 to 500 mm
Diameter Tolerance +0/-0.02 mm
Thickness Tolerance ±0.01 mm
Surface Quality 10-5
Surface Figure λ/10
Parallelism 1 Minute
Coating Uncoated, AR, HR, Beamsplitter, etc.

Types of optical window glass for your needs:

Quartz window

Sapphire glass window

ZnSe selenide window

Germanium IR window

Si window

borosilicate glass windows

Bk7 window

What are Float Glass Optical Windows?
Float glass is a type of glass that is manufactured by floating molten glass on
a bed of molten tin. This process results in a uniform thickness and a flat
surface, making it an ideal material for optical windows. Float glass optical
windows are made from a high-quality, low-iron glass that has excellent optical
properties.

Advantages of Float Glass Optical Windows
Float glass optical windows offer several advantages over other types of
optical windows. Some of the benefits include:

High Transmission
Float glass optical windows have excellent optical properties, providing high
transmission of visible and infrared light.

Low Birefringence
Birefringence is the property of a material that causes light to split into two
polarizations. Float glass optical windows have low birefringence, making them
suitable for applications that require polarization control.

Cost-Effective
Float glass optical windows are more cost-effective than other types of optical
windows, such as sapphire or quartz.

High Durability
Float glass optical windows are highly durable and can withstand harsh
environments and temperature fluctuations.

Applications of Float Glass Optical Windows
Float glass optical windows are used in a wide range of applications,
including:

Laser Systems
Float glass optical windows are commonly used in laser systems as protective
windows or beam splitters.

Microscopy
Float glass optical windows are used in microscopy to protect the lens from
dust and other contaminants.

Industrial Applications
Float glass optical windows are used in industrial applications that require
high durability, such as sensors, displays, and cameras.

Selection Criteria for Float Glass Optical Windows
When selecting float glass optical windows, several factors should be
considered, including:

Material
The quality of the float glass material should be assessed to ensure that it
meets the required optical and mechanical properties.

Coatings
Float glass optical windows can be coated with various materials, such as anti-
reflection coatings, to improve their optical performance.

Thickness
The thickness of the optical window should be determined based on the
application requirements, such as the required transmission or durability.

Size
The size of the optical window should be selected based on the dimensions of
the optical system and the required field of view.

Surface Quality
The surface quality of the optical window should be evaluated to ensure that it
meets the required specifications, such as roughness and flatness.

Environmental Conditions
The environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, should be taken
into consideration when selecting float glass optical windows to ensure that
they can withstand the intended operating conditions.

Manufacturing Process of Float Glass Optical Windows
Float glass optical windows are manufactured using the following process:

Raw materials, including silica sand, soda ash, limestone, and dolomite, are
mixed and melted in a furnace at a temperature of around 1500°C.

The molten glass is then poured onto a bed of molten tin, forming a uniform
layer of glass that is cooled gradually.

The cooled glass is then cut into the required sizes and shapes using diamond-
tipped tools.

The optical windows are then polished to achieve the required surface quality.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Float Glass Optical Windows
Float glass optical windows require proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure
their long-term performance. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining
float glass optical windows:

Cleaning
Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth to clean the optical window.
Avoid using paper towels or abrasive materials, as they can scratch the surface
of the window.

Apply a small amount of a gentle cleaning solution, such as isopropyl alcohol
or lens cleaning solution, to the cloth.

Gently wipe the surface of the optical window in a circular motion, starting
from the center and moving towards the edges.

Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

Maintenance
Store the optical windows in a clean, dry environment to avoid contamination
and damage.

Inspect the optical windows regularly for any signs of damage or wear, such as
scratches or cracks.

Handle the optical windows with care, using gloves or other protective
equipment to avoid fingerprints or smudges.

Avoid exposing the optical windows to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this
can affect their optical properties.

FAQs
Float glass optical windows are a cost-effective and high-quality option for
many optical applications. They offer excellent optical properties, low
birefringence, and high durability. When selecting float glass optical windows,
it is important to consider factors such as material, coatings, thickness,
size, surface quality, and environmental conditions. Proper cleaning and
maintenance of float glass optical windows can ensure their long-term
performance and reliability.

What is float glass?
Float glass is a type of glass that is manufactured by floating molten glass on
a bed of molten tin.

What are the advantages of float glass optical windows?
Float glass optical windows offer high transmission, low birefringence, cost-
effectiveness, and high durability.

What are some applications of float glass optical windows?
Float glass optical windows are used in laser systems, microscopy, and various
industrial applications.

How should I clean float glass optical windows?
Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a gentle cleaning solution, such as isopropyl
alcohol or lens cleaning solution.

How can I maintain float glass optical windows?
Store them in a clean, dry environment, handle them with care, and inspect them
regularly for damage or wear.

If you are looking for a reliable custom optics supplier, please contact us,
and we will be your best partner.

Minimum Order: 100 pieces

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