The UHV vacuum components range includes all CF flange components and connecting elements required for ultra-high vacuum technology. All CF components comply with the DIN standard ISO 3669 and are available for nominal sizes from DN 16 up to DN 250. We can manufacture nominal diameters up to DN 400 for you on request.
Ultra-high vacuum UHV refers to the pressure range <10-8 mbar. In order to achieve and maintain this low pressure range, a very low gas release is required in the vacuum system. This is achieved by using materials with the lowest possible desorption, diffusion and permeation rates, by avoiding unventilated cavities and gaps and by vacuum-compatible cleaning. Working in ultra-high vacuum thus requires the use of particularly high-quality materials and connections. All novotek CF components are therefore made of high-quality stainless steel.
The CF flange connection consists of two geometrically identical flanges which are sealed by a flat gasket made of oxygen-free (OFHC) copper because of the low leakage rate and high bake-out capability required in UHV technology. The copper sealing washer is inserted into the flange recess, thereby centring the flange pair. When the flanges are bolted together, the cutting edges of the flanges are pressed deep into the soft sealing washer, whereby the metal flows away radially and is pressed and confined against the outside of the flange recess. This ensures tightness even when the material "creeps". As a result of plastic deformation, the copper gasket can only be used once. The contact pressure is created by diametrically tightening the screws.
When baking-out CF connections, note that the heating and cooling takes place continuously and relatively slowly. Further details and features of the CF vacuum components such as dimensions, accuracies, pressures or temperatures as well as information on the construction and notes on installation can be found in the respective product details and the chapter on materials in our catalogue.
