Laser Research Optics’ sapphire fiber laser windows help reduce focus shift

Laser Research Optics has introduced sapphire cover glass windows that the company says have lower bulk absorption and about 30 times higher thermal conductivity than quartz protection glasses.

The fiber laser windows feature Mohs 9 hardness and have A/R coatings on both sides to provide transmission of more than 99.5 percent at 1.06 microns with more than 80 percent at 650 to 670 nm. Reducing focus shift and the deterioration of beam quality, the windows can withstand steel splatter, flash, and debris better than fused silica, the manufacturer reports.