Frequently Asked Questions

Your Optical Solutions Partner

Engineering solutions together, every step forward

At Andover Corporation, we believe in building lasting partnerships through open communication and technical excellence. Our team of experts is ready to collaborate with you and address any questions you may have about our optical solutions.

Below are answers to common questions about Andover Corporation, our optical products, manufacturing capabilities, and ordering process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you distinguish between image quality and commercial quality filters?

Image quality filters are designed for applications requiring high resolution and minimal optical distortion, such as astronomy and imaging systems. These filters use high-quality optical substrates that are polished to tight flatness and parallelism tolerances and typically include anti-reflective coatings to reduce ghosting and maximize throughput.

Commercial quality filters may offer the same spectral performance but are intended for instrument-based applications where imaging resolution is not the primary requirement.

How do I maintain my optical filters in good condition?

Optical filters should be cleaned periodically to remove dust, fingerprints, or contaminants that may affect performance. In most environments, cleaning every three months is sufficient, although more frequent cleaning may be required in dusty or high-use conditions.

Cleaning can be performed using acetone, methanol, or alcohol applied to a soft, lint-free tissue, using a gentle circular motion.

Are there any particular environmental conditions to consider when using optical filters?

Yes. Prolonged exposure to high humidity and rapid temperature changes should be avoided. To reduce the risk of thermal shock, we recommend a maximum operating temperature of 70°C and a maximum temperature change of 5°C per minute unless otherwise specified.

Do you offer custom or semi-custom filter sizes?

Yes. Andover Corporation maintains in-house fabrication capabilities that allow filters to be customized in size, shape, and configuration to meet specific application requirements.

Why is operating temperature required when placing an order?

The center wavelength of an interference filter shifts with changes in ambient temperature. Providing the operating temperature allows us to design the filter so that its spectral performance aligns with your application conditions.

When can I expect to receive my order?

Most standard products ship within two to three business days from receipt of order. Lead times for custom or semi-custom products vary based on specifications and production requirements.

Do you offer discounts on surplus stock?

Yes. Andover Corporation offers discounted pricing on surplus inventory.

Current surplus products are listed on our website and availability may change based on inventory levels.

Is there a minimum order value or quantity?

No. Andover Corporation does not require a minimum order value or minimum order quantity.

How do I send custom specifications for a quote?

Custom specifications can be submitted in several ways:

  • Requesting a quote through our website

  • Emailing specifications to info@andcorp.com

  • Faxing details to 603-893-6508, attention Technical Sales

  • Calling toll-free at 888-893-9992

From Prototype to Production

Custom Fabrication and High-Volume Manufacturing

Our vertically integrated facility handles both specialized custom projects and large-scale production runs with consistent quality and short lead times.

Quality isn't just a metric

- it's our foundation.

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Delivering Precision, On Schedule
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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.