In-Vacuum Transfer System

Xelera’s in-vacuum transfer system makes it easy to transport samples from instrument to instrument within an ultra-high vacuum environment. With our UHV transfer system, samples can be moved from one analysis chamber to another without ever leaving the UHV environment, helping to ensure sample integrity is preserved.

Our transfer systems have been used, for example, in the study of photocathode materials for electron guns. Samples are transported between instruments for measurement and characterization and finally to an electron gun for generating a beam, all without breaking vacuum.

How does it work?

The system is built around a central UHV transfer line that connects all of the various instruments and chambers together. Within the transfer line, a sample cart is free to glide smoothly on track that runs along the length of the transfer line. The cart is driven by an externally coupled magnet, which means there are no motors or complex linkages to fail or outgas.

At several positions along the transfer line, perpendicular connecting ports provide interfaces to analysis instruments or testing chambers. At each cross, a dedicated UHV wobble stick is used to reach down and lift a sample off the cart. The cart is then moved out of the way and a separate transfer arm is used to retrieve the sample and insert it into an instrument or adjoining chamber. This reliable two-stage process provides simple, unobstructed access to each instrument.

 Features

  • UHV Design: The system is constructed from UHV-compatible materials and designed to reach and operate in the UHV range.

  • CF Flanges: The system is built using industry-standard ConFlat (CF) flanges throughout.

  • All-metal Internals: The internal track and sample cart are constructed from high-quality, UHV-compatible metal. The wheels of the sample cart are unlubricated, UHV-compatible bearings.

  • High-Temperature Bakeable: The entire system, including the magnetic cart, is fully bakeable to at least 200°C.

  • Fully Customizable: The system is built to your exact specifications. Any length track is possible. The cart can be customized to hold different types of samples.

  • Load-Lock Equipped: The installation includes a load-lock chamber at one end for introducing new samples without needing to vent the entire system.

Contact us for a quote or if you have any questions!