| AVS 54th International Symposium | |
| Exhibitor Workshops | Tuesday Sessions |
| Session EW-TuL |
| Session: | Exhibitor Workshops |
| Presenter: | K. Coates, Atlas Technologies |
| Authors: | J. Bothell, Atlas Technologies K. Coates, Atlas Technologies E. Jones, Atlas Technologies |
| Correspondent: | Click to Email |
Modern Aluminum Vacuum Chambers: Low cost and superior vacuum performance to stainless steel. Historical evolution of aluminum: With the invention of the ConFlat knife-edge sealing system by Varian stainless steel became the recommended material to achieve high and ultra high vacuum. Aluminum was dismissed because of a lack of a robust sealing system, a misunderstanding of oxide surfaces and a lack of understanding of welding techniques. This paper will present: 1. Aluminum surface preparation methods techniques and instruction on cleaning and detailing materials. 2. Welding methods and techniques, materials, equipment and processes to weld aluminum surfaces 3. Aluminum sealing techniques such as the Atlas Flange. 4. Why aluminum vacuum chambers are lower cost than stainless steel. Finally the paper will present data as to the vacuum properties of aluminum vacuum chambers.