Optical Domes

At Shanghai Optics, we specialize in custom optical glass domes designed to meet the demands of various industries. Optical domes are hemispheric windows that provide a protective boundary while allowing a clear field of view between two environments. They are typically made with two parallel surfaces. Shanghai Optics manufactures optical domes in a wide variety of substrates, suitable for visible, IR, or UV light. Our domes are available in sizes ranging from 5 mm to over 200 mm diameter, with custom sizes available upon request.

Popular Substrates and Their Applications

• BK7 or Fused Silica: Ideal for visible light applications, this substrate offers optimal transmission in the 300 nm to 2 µm wavelength range. It is resistant to high pressure and chemical etching. For UV-range light transmission, UV-grade fused silica is available. This optical glass provides over 85 percent transmission for wavelengths up to 185 nm.
• Sapphire: Well-suited for infrared optical dome applications, sapphire transmits up to eighty percent of light in the 2-5 µm wavelength range. It is extremely resistant to scratching and abrasion, making it an excellent choice for defense applications and high-pressure environments, such as underwater camera systems for deep sea exploration.
• Germanium: Transmitting light between 2-14 μm, germanium domes can be manufactured with diamond anti-reflection coatings to enhance durability in harsh environments.
• Zinc Selenide (ZnSe): Suitable for IR domes, ZnSe has excellent optical properties and a broader wavelength range (3 µm to 16 µm) than sapphire. However, it is less hard and best used in more controlled environments. Anti-reflection coatings are recommended due to its high index of refraction.
• MgF2 Ceramic: Offering high transmission between 2 µm to 7.5 µm, MgF2 ceramic domes have a high flexural strength rating and 1350 kg mm² Knoop hardness rating. The hot press manufacturing method allows greater flexibility in dome shape and size, making it a preferred substrate for launch tubes and missiles.

We can also manufacture acrylic domes on request. These domes offer less light scattering than BK7 or fused silica, and are still highly durable.

Germanium Dome Lenses – Diameter: 187.3mm / Height: 60mm

Optical Domes Manufacturing Capability

Our high quality optical domes, made from durable materials like sapphire and MgF2, offer superior protection and optical clarity in challenging environments. Whether you need domes for aerospace LIDAR sensors, underwater imaging systems, or infrared defense applications, we provide tailored solutions to ensure optimal performance. These hemispheric high quality optics are essential for safeguarding sensitive systems in high-pressure, high-impact conditions, from deep-sea ROVs to weather monitoring and security technology. 

Shanghai Optics’s expertise ensures your optical domes deliver precision, durability, and unmatched protection. To learn how we can assist with your current optics project, request a quote online or contact one of our friendly representatives for more information.