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Optical Properties - Refractive Index & Dispersion

Posted by Bill Hill on

Optical Properties - Refractive Index & Dispersion

Refractive index (n) is one of the principle defining characteristics of an optical material.  In simplified terms, the refractive index defines to what degree light is bent or “refracted” when crossing the boundary between two mediums.

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Application & Environmental Considerations for Optical System Design

Posted by Bill Hill on

In our previous article, we discussed how light is defined by opticians in terms of its wavelength and that their understanding of its propagation as a wave allows them to manipulate its behavior using optics.  We’ll now move on and begin to cover the many considerations when designing an optical system. The first and most obvious consideration in optical design is defining the intended application.  Perhaps the system will be used to image the sun in ultraviolet light; perhaps it is for biomedical imaging of human tissue or maybe it’s a simple viewport that is subject to extremely high pressure...

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The Benefits of Fused Silica & Quartz

Posted by Bill Hill on

Attached to the tool belt of every optical designer is a staggering variety of materials from which to choose.  However, from high and low index optical glasses, absorptive filters, various crystals, composites and plastics, very few can boast the wide ranging appeal of fused silica.  In terms of application, this high purity, non-crystalline material is often the go-to substrate of choice, and for good reason.  If you’re in the market for an all-purpose, high performing lens, window, mirror substrate or even a simple, stable tool, then consider the following: Range of Transmission:  Through various manufacturing processes, producers of fused silica...

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Esco Optics reaches new milestone with the approval of manufacturing plant expansion plans

Posted by Ron Schulmerich on

The fire that erupted through Esco’s production facility in August of 2014 was just a minor speed bump in Esco’s 60+ year history. In a quick rebound from the fire, administrative services and production were relocated to our 1 Tidland Road facility in Oak Ridge, New Jersey to maintain production. In October, Esco signed a letter for a new building, yet zoning issues, construction permits and other permits hindered the process. The hope to purchase a larger building, as well as, the option to add additional space to the new facility was a slow and tedious process, however, approval was...

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An update on the 16th Annual Western New York Optics Golf Tournament

Posted by Ron Schulmerich on

On July 21st, the 16th Annual Western New York Optics golf tournament concluded. The tournament, which Esco has been an integral part in fundraising for the past several years, aimed to raise funds for the Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester, NY, and total raised funds are approximately $275k to date prior to this year’s tournament.  The 16th annual tournament was our largest to date, with over 60 optical companies from around the world and over 300 hundred golfers on three separate courses. In addition, three New York Giants players, Stephen Baker, Eric Dorsey and Lee Rouson participated in the games...

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Quality Optics from a Trusted Supplier

American Owned & Operated

Esco Optics is a leading manufacturer of custom and catalog optics, precision optical components, and ITAR optics in the United States.

Military & Defense Supplier

As the leader for military and defense optics in the United States, Esco Optics adheres to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

ITAR Registered & Compliant

ITAR registered and compliant, Esco manufactures ITAR optics for all of its customers with the strictest confidentiality.