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Circular Pressure Window Calculator

Estimate indicative thickness for flat circular optical windows under pressure differential for subsea, vacuum and custom applications.

Why Use a Circular Pressure Window?

Circular windows are typically preferred for high pressure applications due to more even stress distribution and improved mechanical performance.
 

This allows:
 

  • Higher pressure resistance

  • Reduced required thickness

  • More predictable behaviour under load

Complex or stepped geometry?
Upload drawing for further review

Indicative thickness only

The calculated value is intended as an initial estimate and should not be treated as a final design approval.

Edge support affects performance

The way a circular pressure window is mounted can significantly affect stress distribution and required thickness. A clamped window will usually behave differently from a simply supported window.

Final design may require more thickness

Manufacturing tolerances, proof testing, coating requirements, thermal effects, edge quality and safety margins can all increase the final recommended thickness.

Typical enquiries we receive:

  • Subsea camera housings

  • Pressure vessels and sealed systems

  • Custom optical windows for harsh environments

👉 Send your drawing for quotation

Common Materials for Circular Pressure Windows

Material selection depends on optical transmission, mechanical strength, environmental conditions and coating requirements.

Circular pressure windows are commonly used in subsea and high pressure applications where strength and reliability are critical.

Sapphire (Al2O3)

200

Allowable stress:         MPa

335

Young's modulus:            GPa

Density:            

3.98

g/cm3

Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2)

35

Allowable stress:         MPa

138.5

Young's modulus:            GPa

Density:            

3.15

g/cm3

Fused Silica (SiO2)

50

Allowable stress:         MPa

73

Young's modulus:            GPa

Density:            

2.2

g/cm3

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)

20

Allowable stress:         MPa

75.8

Young's modulus:            GPa

Density:            

3.18

g/cm3

Borosilicate Glass (BK7)

35

Allowable stress:         MPa

82

Young's modulus:            GPa

Density:            

4.89

g/cm3

Barium Fluoride (BaF2)

15

Allowable stress:         MPa

53.1

Young's modulus:            GPa

Density:            

2.51

g/cm3

Frequently Asked Questions

Need a quotation or application review?

If you already know your diameter, pressure conditions, preferred material or application environment, send us your requirements and we can review the application and provide a quotation for a suitable circular pressure window.

Calculator results are indicative only and do not constitute certified design approval. Final suitability depends on mechanical design, material data, mounting method, safety requirements and application environment.

Company Registered in England Registered Office: 

Global Optics (UK) Ltd, Unit 6 Branksome Business Park, Bourne Valley Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 1DW. Tel: 01202 767476
Company No. 3509979
© Global Optics UK Ltd - Precision Optics Supplier - UV, Visible And Infrared Optical Materials And Components For Scientific Optical Applications 

©2024 by Global Optics UK Ltd.

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