Precision Sapphire Tubes – Polished OD & Ground ID for Optical, Fluidic & Semiconductor Use

Introduction

Our Precision Sapphire Tubes are engineered for the most demanding applications where optical clarity, mechanical precision, and chemical resistance are critical. Each tube features an optically polished outside diameter (OD) for visual monitoring or laser/optical applications, paired with a fine-ground inside diameter (ID) for superior wear resistance and controlled friction.

Made from 99.9% single-crystal sapphire, these tubes surpass fused quartz and other technical ceramics in extreme thermal, mechanical, and corrosive environments. Ideal for semiconductor processing, medical fluidics, high-pressure laser cavities, and precision mechanical assemblies.

Key Features

• Dual-Finish Excellence: Crystal-clear OD ensures optical transparency; precision-ground ID provides consistent friction and wear control.

• Extreme Durability: Mohs 9 hardness protects against abrasive fluids, high-speed internal movement, and mechanical impact.

• Thermal Stability: Stable performance from cryogenic temperatures up to 2000°C without deformation or loss of optical quality.

• Chemical Inertness: Resistant to aggressive plasma, strong acids, and alkalis used in semiconductor etching and chemical processing.

• Precision Engineering: Concentricity and parallelism optimized for high-pressure sealing and precision mechanical alignment.

Applications

• Semiconductor etching and wafer processing systems

• Laser cavities and optical pumping assemblies

• Micro- and macro-fluidic devices for chemical or biomedical applications

• High-precision plunger or piston guides in medical instruments

• Protective sleeves for sensors in harsh chemical or thermal environments

Technical Specifications

FAQ

Q1: Why choose a sapphire tube with a polished OD and ground ID?
This configuration is ideal for fluidic systems, laser cavities, and precision mechanical components. The polished OD allows optical access for monitoring or laser pumping, while the fine-ground ID ensures controlled friction, better lubricant retention, and consistent performance for plungers or pistons.

Q2: What is the maximum length and diameter you can produce?
We can manufacture sapphire tubes up to 250mm in length and up to φ250mm in diameter, accommodating both micro-fluidic applications and larger industrial uses.

Q3: Can you ensure the concentricity between the polished OD and ground ID?
Yes. Using precision CNC grinding centers, we achieve concentricity up to 0.02mm and parallelism as tight as 2 Arc Seconds, which is critical for high-pressure seals and optical alignment.

Q4: Is this tube resistant to hydrofluoric acid (HF)?
Sapphire exhibits excellent chemical resistance, significantly superior to quartz. It can withstand most acids, including HF at common concentrations used in semiconductor etching. We recommend verifying specific process conditions for extreme concentrations or temperatures.

Q5: Do you offer custom sizing based on my drawings?
Absolutely. We specialize in fully customized sapphire components. Whether you need micro-capillaries with a 0.2mm orifice or large protective sleeves, we can machine them precisely to your STEP or CAD specifications.