Optics able to withstand high-pressure undersea conditions introduced by Meller Optics
PROVIDENCE, R.I., 15 Sept. 2014. Meller Optics Inc. in Providence, R.I., is introducing sapphire optics that can withstand high pressures for outboard applications on undersea vehicles.
Meller sapphire optics have Moh 9 hardness, which is second only to diamond and can withstand deep water pressure to 10,000 psi, depending on configuration. The optics have a smooth flat surface to help prevent algae growth.
Sapphire optics are clear, withstand fast moving sand and salt water, and have a smooth flat surface. They are available as windows, domes, and truncated hyperhemispheres.
Meller can fabricate sapphire optics in sizes from 0.25 to 10 inches in diameter, with varying wall thicknesses, elliptical edge shaping, and steps, holes and slots for mounting.
Surface finishes can be held to 10-5 scratch-dig, roughness to 0.3 nanometers RA, and flatness to 0.5 fringes HeNe. For more information contact Meller Optics online at www.melleroptics.com.
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John Keller | Editor
John Keller is editor-in-chief of Military & Aerospace Electronics magazine, which provides extensive coverage and analysis of enabling electronic and optoelectronic technologies in military, space, and commercial aviation applications. A member of the Military & Aerospace Electronics staff since the magazine's founding in 1989, Mr. Keller took over as chief editor in 1995.
