Subsea Optical Windows for ROV & Underwater Camera Systems
Global Optics supplies custom optical windows for subsea and underwater applications, manufactured exactly to customer drawings and specifications.
We support everything from one-off prototypes to production supply, with no minimum order quantity and full UK inspection prior to dispatch.
Subsea environments introduce significant pressure, corrosion and reliability challenges, making correct material selection and thickness critical.
Typical response time: within 24–48 hours depending on specification.
All components are inspected in the UK prior to dispatch to ensure they meet specification.
What We Need to Provide a Quotation
Providing the following information allows us to quote accurately and avoid delays:
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Depth or pressure requirement
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Diameter / size
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Material (if known)
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Thickness (if specified)
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Quantity
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Drawing or specification
Materials for Subsea Optical Windows
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Sapphire – preferred for high pressure and abrasive environments
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Fused Silica – used for precision applications at moderate depths
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Borosilicate (BK7) – suitable for lower pressure or cost-sensitive applications
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CaF₂ – used where infrared transmission is required
Pressure Considerations
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As depth increases, external pressure rises significantly, placing stress on the optical window.
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Greater depth → higher pressure
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Larger diameter → higher stress
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Material strength directly affects required thickness
👉 Thickness must be correctly calculated to avoid failure.
Not sure on thickness?
Use our pressure window calculator to generate an initial thickness estimate based on pressure, size and material.
Applications
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Subsea cameras
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ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) systems
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Underwater inspection equipment
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Offshore and marine systems
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Scientific instrumentation
Important Design Considerations
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Circular windows are typically preferred for high pressure applications
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Edge support significantly affects performance
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Safety factors should be applied depending on depth and risk
👉 Final designs should always be confirmed based on full application requirements.
When to Use Subsea Optical Windows
Standard optical windows designed for atmospheric use are not suitable for subsea environments unless correctly designed for pressure.
Custom Made to Drawing
All subsea optical windows are manufactured to customer specifications, including size, thickness, surface quality and tolerances.
We supply components strictly to drawing and support both prototype and production quantities.
Coatings Available
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Anti-reflective coatings
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Protective coatings for harsh environments (including DLC where required)
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Custom coating options