Precise and Durable Light Guidance in the Short-Wave Range
Optical Fibers for
Short-wavelength radiation, high photon energies, and continuous exposure can cause solarization, transmission losses, or premature failure in conventional quartz fibers. In processes such as photopolymerization, disinfection, lithography, or UV spectroscopy, these effects directly impact efficiency, precision, and process reliability.
To meet these challenges, CeramOptec relies on UV-optimized glass qualities, hermetic coatings, and solarization-stable manufacturing processes that maintain stable transmission even under continuous operation. Optran® UV fibers are designed to reliably support critical UV applications, providing precise light guidance, stable performance, and a service life tailored to UV environments.
Typical Applications
- Photopolymerization & UV curing: precise energy delivery for materials and coatings
- UV disinfection & sterilization: efficient light transmission for clinical and industrial use
- Excimer laser systems: stable performance under high UV loads
- Lithography & semiconductor processes: reliable transmission in critical production steps
- UV spectroscopy: high-resolution measurements at short wavelengths
Selection Criteria for Fibers
UV applications require careful fiber selection, as material properties and aging effects influence transmission stability. Wavelength range, exposure duration, and system load are key factors.
Key selection parameters
- UV wavelength range: particularly critical at shorter UV wavelengths with increased material stress
- Solarization resistance: essential for stable transmission under continuous UV exposure
- Material purity: influences aging behavior, transmission loss, and signal stability
- Numerical aperture: relevant for coupling efficiency and beam guidance in UV systems
- Long-term and environmental stability: important for continuous operation and demanding application environments
Suitable Optran® Fibers
For UV applications, CeramOptec offers specially developed Optran® fibers designed to meet the challenges of short-wavelength radiation:
- Optran® UV / UVNS / UVNSS
For UV applications requiring high solarization resistance, material purity, and long-term stability.
- Optran® UVWFS
For applications with an extended spectral range where stable transmission from UV into the VIS range is required.
- Special assemblies and protection solutions
For increased environmental exposure, mechanical stress, or customized system integration in UV applications.
Explore suitable Optran® fiber types for UV applications and technical details in our fiber overview.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Which wavelengths do the UV fibers cover?
Our Optran® UV fibers reliably transmit from 190 nm up to the near infrared – ideal for analytical applications, UV light sources, and systems requiring maximum precision in the ultraviolet range.
Are the fibers solarization-resistant?
Yes. Thanks to specially developed materials and processes, our fibers remain stable and high-performing even under long-term UV exposure, ensuring lasting signal quality and service life in demanding applications.
Which fibers do you recommend for excimer lasers?
For high-energy UV systems and excimer lasers, we recommend our Optran® UVNSS fibers with hermetic carbon coating. They are designed for extreme loads and deliver reliable performance even under intense radiation.
Can the fibers be adapted to my UV light source?
Yes. We customize diameters, NA values, and connectors to match your exact requirements – ensuring the fiber solution integrates seamlessly and delivers the desired performance.
How quickly are samples available?
Many of our standard fiber specifications are available from stock. For custom prototypes or specialized designs, delivery times are coordinated individually to ensure fast and reliable project implementation.