Neutral Density Filters
Neutral Density Filters
Neutral Density Filters (ND Filters) are precision optical components engineered to accurately attenuate light intensity without altering the spectral distribution, beam profile, or wavefront quality. Unlike simple light-reducing elements, high-performance ND filters are designed to deliver predictable, repeatable attenuation across defined wavelength ranges, making them indispensable in imaging systems, laser setups, and optical instrumentation.
With extensive experience in optical coating and substrate processing, Star-optics manufactures high-stability neutral density filters for demanding industrial, scientific, and laser applications. Our ND filters are produced using carefully selected optical substrates and advanced coating technologies to ensure spectral neutrality, optical density accuracy, and long-term environmental reliability.
Optical Density and Attenuation Accuracy
The performance of a neutral density filter is defined by its Optical Density (OD), which quantifies how much light is attenuated:
OD=−log10(T)\text{OD} = -\log_{10}(T)
Where T is the transmission.
Avantier offers ND filters across a wide OD range, including:
OD 0.3 – OD 1.0 for fine exposure adjustment
OD 2 – OD 3 for detector and sensor protection
OD 4 – OD 6+ for high-sensitivity imaging and laser applications
Tight OD tolerances and uniformity across the clear aperture ensure consistent system performance, even in multi-element optical stacks.
Applications
Neutral Density Filters are widely used in:
Machine vision and industrial imaging
Laser power control and safety attenuation
Scientific instrumentation and photometry
Optical testing and calibration systems
Medical and life-science imaging devices
Custom Neutral Density Filters
Star-optics specializes in custom-engineered neutral density filters tailored to specific optical systems and performance requirements. Our customization capabilities include:
Custom optical density values and tolerances
Defined wavelength ranges and spectral neutrality control
Absorptive or reflective ND designs
Custom sizes, thicknesses, and shapes
High-power and laser-grade ND filters
Environmental and durability enhancements
Backed by decades of optical manufacturing expertise, our engineering team collaborates closely with customers to develop ND filter solutions optimized for performance, reliability, and seamless system integration.
