Waveplates

As the world’s only entirely vertically integrated CdS, CdSe, and KDP waveplate producer, we deliver accurate performance for demanding applications. Our control over crystal growth benefits customers who need larger sizes, high laser damage threshold performance, or more accurate retardation tolerances.

For all wavelength ranges, we orient, cut, and polish the optical crystals for waveplate production. Polishing, coating, assembly, and metrology complete the manufacturing process. G&H has IS09001 certifications across all manufacturing facilities and AS9100C certifications across select facilities.

Zero-order and achromatic waveplates

Compound zero-order (also known as net-zero order) and achromatic waveplates are often optically contacted to reduce reflection losses at the surfaces. Air-spacing is recommended for high-energy applications. Specialty waveplate designs such as off-axis or true-zero order waveplates are produced to custom specifications.

Waveplates from the UV to the NIR

From crystal orientation to assembled product, we produce cutting-edge waveplates for a varied range of applications and customers.

• Crystal quartz – standard material for UV-NIR waveplate applications
• LiNbO₃ – infrequently used in 1.5 µm applications and optical frequency shifters
• MgF₂ – typically used in combination with crystal quartz for achromatic waveplates
• Mica – for ophthalmology applications
• Sapphire – for defense applications in extreme environmental conditions
• YVO₄ – waveplates for the 400 nm to 5 µm ranges

Waveplates for the IR, higher energies, or larger formats

As the world's only entirely vertically integrated CdS, CdSe, KDP and KD*P waveplate producer, we deliver accurate performance for demanding applications.

Our control over crystal growth benefits customers who need larger sizes, high laser damage threshold performance, or more accurate retardation tolerances.

Applications

• Optical isolation
• Laser power control and attenuation
• Polarimetry
• Remote sensing
• Surveillance
• Fusion laser systems

Coatings

From high transmission broadband anti-reflection coatings to V-coats for high energy applications, our extensive coating capabilities for precision optical components deliver performance across the spectrum from the UV to the FIR.

Key Equipment & Processes

• Optical contacting
• Lap Master Wolters AC1500-L
• Engis Hyprez high pressure lap polisher
• 18" - 48" lap polishers

Metrology

We have made a significant investment in metrology equipment to ensure that our customers receive quality, high-performing precision optical components.

• 6" & 18" Zygo interferometers (1/50th wave accuracy flatness RWE & TWE)
• Heidenhain CT60
• Spectrometers

Environmental Testing

Environmental testing of components and coatings is critical for the assurance of performance in rugged conditions. G&H environmental testing capabilities include MIL-C-675C, MIL-C-48497A, MIL-E-12397, and MIL-M-13508C for endurance against abrasion, adhesion, humidity, temperature, and environmental conditions.