Optical Coatings

Precision Thin-Film Solutions

Advanced Optical Filter Coatings

Precision engineered coatings controlling light from UV to far infrared

What Are Optical Coatings?

Optical coatings are specialized thin-film layers applied to optical components to enhance performance by controlling reflection, transmission, and absorption of light across different wavelength ranges. These coatings enable superior performance for applications in astronomy, aerospace, defense, spectroscopy, and laser systems.

At Andover Corporation, we develop advanced coating solutions tailored to ultraviolet (UV), visible, near-infrared (NIR), and far-infrared (FIR) wavelengths, utilizing cutting-edge deposition techniques for superior performance and durability.

From Prototype to Production

Custom Fabrication and High-Volume Manufacturing

Collaborate with Andover Corporation on custom optical products, prototype development, and specialized optical solutions supported by vertically integrated manufacturing.

With in-house fabrication, coating, assembly, and metrology capabilities, Andover can support everything from rapid prototypes to high-volume production programs with responsive lead times and consistent quality.

Coating Technologies

At Andover Corporation, we utilize multiple advanced deposition technologies to achieve optimal coating performance. Our diverse technical capabilities allow us to select the ideal coating method for each application, ensuring superior quality and precise specifications across all wavelength ranges.

Our production facility employs a variety of cutting-edge deposition techniques to to select the ideal coating method for each application, ensuring  superior quality and precise optical performance.

Magnetron Sputtering

High-performance coating process that creates extremely dense, durable films with exceptional stability. Ideal for producing complex multilayer coatings requiring precise thickness control and environmental durability.

Ion-Assisted E-Beam Deposition

Advanced process combining electron beam evaporation with ion bombardment to create hard, durable coatings with excellent adhesion and optical properties. Perfect for demanding applications requiring tight spectral control.

 

Resistance Evaporation

Traditional thermal evaporation technique offering excellent uniformity and cost-effectiveness. Well-suited for producing high-quality coatings on temperature-sensitive substrates while maintaining precise optical specifications.

Proprietary Solutions

Custom-engineered coating processes developed through decades of experience. Combines multiple technologies to achieve unique optical properties and performance characteristics not possible with standard techniques.

 

Optical Coating Capabilities

Andover Corporation offers a full spectrum of coating solutions, ranging from anti-reflective coatings to high-durability mirror coatings. Our vertically integrated facility allows us to provide:

  • Custom and Standard Coatings – Engineered for specific wavelengths and environmental conditions
  • Broad Spectral Coverage – UV (193nm) through longwave IR (14µm)
  • High-Performance Durability – Designed for extreme environmental exposure
  • Precision Deposition Methods – Ensuring uniformity, repeatability, and optical stability

Frequently Asked Questions

What are optical coatings?

Optical coatings are thin-film layers applied to optical components to modify how light reflects, transmits, or absorbs at the surface. These coatings are foundational in many optical systems. For example, bandpass filters use precisely engineered coatings to transmit a specific wavelength range while blocking others—ideal for spectroscopy and fluorescence detection. Likewise, neutral density (ND) filters rely on coatings to reduce light intensity evenly across the spectrum, commonly used in imaging and laser attenuation.

What types of optical coatings does Andover Corporation offer?

Andover provides a broad range of optical coatings, including anti-reflective (AR), high-reflective (HR), dielectric, and infrared coatings. Each is developed to meet specific spectral and durability requirements across UV, visible, and IR ranges.

Can Andover Corporation provide custom optical coatings?

Yes, we specialize in custom coating solutions tailored to your application. Whether it’s a unique substrate, wavelength requirement, or environmental condition, our in-house engineering and vertically integrated manufacturing ensure we can deliver on even the most complex specifications.

What industries benefit from Andover's optical coatings?

Andover Corporation provides a full range of optical coating capabilities from concept to production. We specialize in bandpass filters, neutral density (ND) filters, and advanced optical coatings across the UV, visible, and infrared spectrum. Our vertically integrated facility houses custom polishing, metrology, coating, and testing labs—all under one roof. This approach enables tight quality control, fast turnaround, and high-performance custom solutions for a range of industries, including biomedical, defense, and environmental monitoring.

How can I request a quote for optical coating services?

You can request a quote from Andover Corporation by visiting our Request a Quote page. Please include as much detail as possible about your application, specifications, and quantity requirements. Our team will respond promptly to assist you with pricing, lead time, and any technical guidance you may need.

Contact Our Team

Ready to discuss your optical needs? Whether you're looking for a quote or have technical questions, our expert team is here to help guide you to the perfect solution.

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