Vacuum feedthroughs are devices that are used to allow electrical, optical, or fluid connections to pass through a vacuum chamber wall. They are essential in high vacuum applications because they allow for the passage of electrical power, control signals, and other types of data into and out of the vacuum chamber while maintaining the integrity of the vacuum.
There are several reasons why vacuum feedthroughs are important in high vacuum applications. First and foremost, they allow for the passage of electrical power and control signals into the vacuum chamber, which is necessary for operating many types of equipment and instruments that are used in high vacuum environments. For example, electrical feedthroughs can be used to power a vacuum pump, while optical feedthroughs can be used to transmit data from sensors or cameras that are located inside the vacuum chamber.
In addition to electrical and optical connections, vacuum feedthroughs can also be used to transport fluids, such as coolants or process gases, into or out of the vacuum chamber. This is particularly important for applications that require temperature control or precise gas delivery, such as in the case of thin film deposition or material processing.
Another important aspect of vacuum feedthroughs is that they can be designed to minimize the amount of outgassing that occurs, which is the release of gas from the feedthrough material into the vacuum chamber. This is important because outgassing can contaminate the vacuum environment, potentially causing damage to the equipment or samples inside the chamber.
Lastly, vacuum feedthroughs must be designed to withstand the high vacuum conditions and operate efficiently and reliably. These feedthroughs typically consist of a metal or ceramic stem with an epoxy, glass or ceramic seal that allows the electrical, optical, or fluid connection to pass through the vacuum chamber wall. The feedthrough stem must be sealed to the vacuum chamber wall without leaking, while the electrical, optical, or fluid connections must maintain their integrity under the high vacuum conditions.
In summary, vacuum feedthroughs play a crucial role in high vacuum applications, by allowing electrical, optical, or fluid connections to pass through the vacuum chamber wall while preserving the high vacuum condition. They also play a important role in controlling temperature, providing gases and maintain the integrity of the electrical, optical and fluid connections.