BCE’s Optic Cable Feedthru: The Source For Accurate Spectrometer Data Collection

BCE Optic Cable Feedthru

Collecting data from a spectrometer has always presented unique challenges. Now, couple that with data collection in an ultra-high vacuum environment and intermittent pressures. This is precisely what a leading national laboratory focusing on American defense asked BCE to supply. This client was concerned with data collection across an ultra-high vacuum chamber using a unique feedthrough that would be easy to install, prevent damage to expensive equipment, and maintain employee safety.

SCOPE

The feedthrough needed to meet the following specifications:

• Ultra-high vacuum compatible to 1X10–9 cc/sec of He @ 1 ATM 
• Ease of installation into vacuum chamber wall 
• Offer a high coupling efficiency into spectrometer 
• Compatible connection with computing devices 
• Remain operable under 100 psi of static pressure 
• Be able to sustain pressures ranging from 500 to 1000 psi 
• Adapt quickly, within milliseconds, to varying pressures 
• Fit easily into restricted spaces 
• Prevent release of contaminants via outgassing 

OUTCOME
BCE proposed its Optic Cable feedthrough as the ultimate solution to this design conundrum. The flexible stainless steel conduit of the fiber optic cable along with its connectors coupled easily with the spectrometer and company devices. The CF flange of the feedthrough mounted effortlessly into the vacuum chamber wall and BCE’s proprietary epoxy seal meeting NASA ASTM E595 allowed for less than 0.1% of volatiles to emanate into the environment and with less than 1% of mass loss. Further testing of BCE’s optic cable feedthrough at the client facility revealed that it remained operable at varied, high pressures while ensuring an ultra-high vacuum seal.

For more information about the BCE Optic Cable Feedthru including detailed drawings, visiy this link. 

BCE’s Mini-Clean Flow (MCF) Heater at the Core of 4D Entertainment

BCE Mini Clean Flow (MCF) Heater

Picture this: a heater that can sustain elevated motion, high temperatures and pressures, and be compact enough to fit into a restricted assembly. BCE was approached by a worldwide provider of 4D cinematic experiences to help design a custom heating apparatus. This novel thermal assembly would be capable of creating a desired heat effect enhancing the viewing of attraction films around the globe.

SCOPE
The heater of the apparatus needed to be able to:

• Generate internal temperatures exceeding 500°C 
• Ramp to elevated temperatures within minutes 
• Operate at low voltage: 24V 
• Sustain pressures up to 80 psi 
• Assemble easily to a control valve 
• Remain operable at a motion of 10 g 
• Allow for acute temperature control 
• Have a low mass design for efficient heat transfer 
• Be compact; allowing the assembly to remain within a 10” envelope 

OUTCOME

BCE’s MCF heater provided the optimal solution to this design challenge. During pre-heat with no air flow, the internal temperature of the MCF reached 320°C. After an 80 psi air burst and temperature drop, the low mass of the heater was able to achieve an internal temperature of 505°C in just under 90 s during the heat effect. This greatly surpassed customer expectations. Not only was its compactness an asset in maintaining the dimensional restrictions, its unique design with NPT fitting assembled easily to other components. Moreover, the built-in thermocouple type K offered precise temperature monitoring for this sensitive application. Finally, its robust design allowed for continuous operation under the most strenuous pressures and motion.

Download a PDF of the Mini Clean Flow (MCF) Heater here.

NASA Preferred Reliability Practices: Vacuum Seals Design Criteria

From the Office of The Chief Engineer at NASA - NASA's Preferred Practices.
Courtesy of BCE (Belilove Company-Engineers).

Download the full Vacuum Seals Design Criteria document here.

NASA Preferred Reliability Practices Vacuum Seals Design Criteria from Belilove Company-Engineers

Welcome to BCE

BCE (Belilove Company-Engineers) has over 60 years experience as a California based manufacturer, value added component integrator, and distributor serving the analytical instrumentation, semiconductor, photovoltaic, medical equipment, plastics processing, foodservice equipment, packaging, and aerospace industries. 

BCE offers custom electrical heaters, sensors, controls and custom vacuum feedthroughs for sale. Supported by their wealth of knowledge and experience, BCE will assist you with your electric heating, vacuum feedthrough, and ceramic substrate needs.

http://www.belilove.com | (510) 274-1990

Vacuum Technology and Vacuum Design Handbook for Accelerator Technicians

A handbook titled "Vacuum Technology and Vacuum Design Handbook for Accelerator Technicians" published in 2011 and downloaded from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory website, is a compilation of information gathered from over 50 years of direct hands-on experience to applicable information widely available from the vacuum technology industry.

It seeks to address common and specific vacuum technology problems while clarifying the design standards and philosophies adopted for use in the ANSTO accelerator facilities.

The link to the Vacuum Technology and Vacuum Design Handbook for Accelerator Technicians PDF can be found here.