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How to Choose the Right Double Convex Lens: Material, Focal Length and Optical Specifications

2026/11/09
Latest company blog about How to Choose the Right Double Convex Lens: Material, Focal Length and Optical Specifications
How to Choose the Right Double Convex Lens: Material, Focal Length and Optical Specifications

Our double convex lenses are designed for optical systems where the object and image are located on opposite sides of the lens. This configuration makes them a practical choice for finite conjugate imaging applications, especially when the object-to-image distance ratio falls within a range of approximately 0.2 to 5.

With two convex spherical surfaces, double convex lenses provide balanced focusing performance for many imaging setups. They can also be combined with other optical components to meet different system design requirements.

At Star Optic, we offer double convex lenses in N-BK7 and UV fused silica, with multiple focal lengths to suit different optical configurations. Standard options include 25.4 mm diameters and focal lengths ranging from 25.4 mm to 1000 mm. Custom materials, dimensions and optical coatings are also available according to project requirements.

Whether you are sourcing lenses for imaging equipment, optical instruments or custom optical assemblies, we can help match the lens specifications to your application.

Choosing the Right Optical Material: N-BK7 vs. UV Fused Silica

Material selection directly affects the performance of a double convex lens. The operating wavelength, transmission requirements and working environment should all be considered before choosing the substrate.

At Star Optic, we provide double convex lenses in N-BK7, UV fused silica and other optical materials to meet different optical system requirements.

N-BK7 Optical Glass

N-BK7 is a widely used optical glass for general-purpose imaging and optical applications. It offers good transmission in the visible and near-infrared regions, making it a practical choice for standard double convex lenses.

For optical systems that do not require enhanced ultraviolet transmission or special thermal properties, N-BK7 provides a reliable material option. It is commonly selected for imaging equipment, optical instruments and laser-related applications.

UV Fused Silica

UV fused silica is a suitable choice for applications requiring high transmission in the ultraviolet region. Compared with conventional optical glass, it also has a lower thermal expansion coefficient, making it suitable for optical systems where temperature stability is an important consideration.

Star Optic offers UV fused silica double convex lenses in multiple focal lengths, including standard 25.4 mm diameter options. Uncoated and wavelength-specific AR coating options can be selected according to the application.

Other Optical Materials Available from Star Optic

In addition to N-BK7 and UV fused silica, Star Optic offers a wider selection of optical materials for different lens designs and application requirements.

  • H-ZF13: A high-refractive-index optical glass option for optical designs requiring specific refractive properties. Material selection can be matched to the optical system design.
  • Calcium Fluoride (CaF2): Suitable for specialized ultraviolet and infrared applications. It offers a broad transmission range, making it a useful material for demanding optical systems.
  • Sapphire: An option for applications requiring high material hardness and good mechanical durability. It can be considered for optical components exposed to demanding operating conditions.
  • Our material selection also covers N-SF11, Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge) and Zinc Selenide (ZnSe), depending on the optical component and application.
Find the Right Material for Your Double Convex Lens

Choosing the right substrate is only one part of the lens specification. Focal length, diameter, surface quality, dimensional tolerance and coating requirements should also match the optical system.

At Star Optic, we provide standard double convex lenses as well as customized optical components. If you have specific wavelength, material or dimensional requirements, send us your drawings or technical specifications. Our team can help identify a suitable material and lens configuration for your project.

How Does Focal Length Affect Double Convex Lens Performance?

Focal length is an important factor when selecting a double convex lens. It determines how the lens focuses incoming light and directly affects the imaging configuration, working distance and overall optical system design.

For applications requiring stronger light convergence and shorter focal distances, shorter focal lengths such as 25.4 mm and 50 mm may be suitable. These options are commonly considered for compact optical assemblies and close-range imaging setups.

For systems requiring longer working distances or less convergent focusing, 100 mm and 200 mm focal lengths offer more flexibility. Longer focal lengths, such as 500 mm and 1000 mm, can be considered for optical setups with specific long-focus requirements.

Star Optic supplies standard 25.4 mm diameter double convex lenses with focal lengths ranging from 25.4 mm to 1000 mm in N-BK7 and UV fused silica. Custom focal lengths and dimensions can also be discussed based on your optical design requirements.

When selecting a lens, our team recommends considering focal length together with material, working wavelength, aperture and object-image distance to ensure compatibility with your optical system.

When Should You Choose an AR-Coated Double Convex Lens?

The coating option should be selected according to the operating wavelength and performance requirements of your optical system.

For general applications where reflection loss is not a major concern, uncoated double convex lenses can be a practical and economical choice. If higher light transmission and reduced surface reflection are required, AR-coated lenses are recommended. The coating wavelength should match your actual working wavelength, such as 405 nm, 532 nm, 633 nm or 1064 nm.

For applications requiring controlled reflection or high reflectivity, PR (Partial Reflective) and HR (High Reflective) coatings can be considered based on the optical system design.

At Star Optic, we offer uncoated double convex lenses and customized coating options. Customers can specify the required wavelength and coating type when requesting a quotation.

Standard Double Convex Lens Sizes and Custom Manufacturing Options

Star Optic supplies standard DCXD25.4 series double convex lenses in N-BK7 and UV fused silica (UVFS). Both material options are available in multiple focal lengths to accommodate different optical system designs.

Our standard 25.4 mm diameter series covers focal lengths from 25.4 mm to 1000 mm, providing options for different focusing and imaging requirements.

In addition to standard specifications, we support customized double convex lenses according to project requirements, including:

  • Diameter: Custom lens diameters and dimensions.
  • Focal Length: Specific focal lengths for different optical configurations.
  • Optical Materials: N-BK7, UV fused silica, CaF2, Sapphire and other available materials.
  • Surface Quality: Different precision grades according to application requirements.
  • Optical Coatings: Uncoated, AR, PR and HR coatings with specified wavelength requirements.

If our standard DCXD25.4 series does not match your design, you can send us your drawings or required optical specifications. Our team can help evaluate the material, dimensions, focal length and coating options for your project.

Why Choose Star Optic for Double Convex Lenses?

Choosing the right double convex lens manufacturer is important for maintaining consistent optical performance and meeting your project requirements. At Star Optic, we provide standard and custom optical lenses for laser systems, imaging equipment, precision instruments and other industrial applications.

Multiple Optical Material Options

We offer double convex lenses in N-BK7, UV fused silica and other optical materials. Our material selection also covers CaF2, Sapphire and other specialized optical substrates for different wavelength and application requirements.

Precision Manufacturing and Quality Inspection

Our manufacturing processes include grinding, polishing, centering, optical coating and precision measurement. We use precision metrology equipment, interferometers and spectrometers to inspect optical components. Measurement reports can also be provided with shipments.

Flexible Optical Coating Solutions

We provide anti-reflection (AR), partial reflective (PR) and high reflective (HR) coating solutions. Coating specifications can be discussed according to your working wavelength and optical system requirements.

Standard Products and Custom Manufacturing

In addition to standard DCXD25.4 double convex lenses, we support customized optical components based on drawings, samples or technical specifications. Our production capabilities cover prototype development and serial production, helping customers move from initial testing to regular orders.

Technical Support from Design to Delivery

With experience in optical design, manufacturing and inspection, our team can assist with material selection, optical specifications and production requirements. Whether you need standard double convex lenses or customized optical components for an OEM project, Star Optic is ready to discuss your requirements.

Contact Star Optic with your required diameter, focal length, material, coating and quantity to receive a suitable solution and quotation.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a double convex lens and a plano-convex lens?

A double convex lens has two outward-curved surfaces, while a plano-convex lens has one curved surface and one flat surface. Double convex lenses are commonly used in finite conjugate imaging systems, while plano-convex lenses are often selected for focusing applications with specific object and image distances.

2. Which material is better for a double convex lens, N-BK7 or UV fused silica?

It depends on the working wavelength and application requirements. N-BK7 is a practical choice for visible and near-infrared applications. UV fused silica is more suitable when higher ultraviolet transmission and lower thermal expansion are required.

3. How do I select the focal length of a double convex lens?

Consider the object distance, image distance, working distance and required optical configuration. Star Optic offers standard focal lengths from 25.4 mm to 1000 mm, with custom options available for specific designs.

4. Can double convex lenses be supplied with AR coatings?

Yes. Star Optic provides AR coating options for different working wavelengths. Customers can specify their required wavelength, such as 405 nm, 532 nm, 633 nm or 1064 nm, when requesting a quotation.

5. Does Star Optic provide custom double convex lenses?

Yes. We support custom double convex lenses based on customer drawings or technical specifications, including material, diameter, focal length, surface quality and coating requirements.