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Conflat (CF) UHV Standard Tees

Conflat (CF) UHV Standard Tees

Introduction

Conflat (CF) UHV Standard Tees are essential vacuum components used to create three-way connections in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems. Designed with CF knife-edge flanges, these tees provide reliable, leak-tight performance and are widely used in semiconductor processing, surface science, and high-precision research environments where vacuum integrity is critical.

Detailed Description

CF UHV standard tees are precision-machined from high-quality stainless steel, typically 304L or 316L, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance, low outgassing, and long-term durability. Each port of the tee is equipped with a ConFlat (CF) flange featuring a knife-edge sealing surface that compresses a soft copper gasket to form a metal-to-metal seal capable of achieving pressures down to 10⁻¹⁰ mbar or lower.

The tee configuration allows for efficient branching of vacuum lines, enabling integration of pumps, gauges, valves, or additional chambers within a compact footprint. Internal surfaces are typically machined to high smoothness and can be electropolished to further reduce contamination and virtual leaks.

CF standard tees are available in equal or reducing configurations, with a wide range of flange sizes (e.g., CF16 to CF200 and larger). Their rigid, welded construction ensures mechanical stability and compatibility with high-temperature bake-out procedures commonly required in UHV systems.

Key features include:

  • CF knife-edge flange design for UHV sealing

  • High-grade stainless steel construction (304L / 316L)

  • Excellent vacuum performance with low leak rates

  • Compatible with high-temperature bake-out processes

  • Available in equal and reducing tee configurations

  • Smooth internal surfaces for minimal outgassing

Applications

CF UHV standard tees are widely used in:

  • Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems and beamlines

  • Semiconductor manufacturing and thin film deposition (PVD, CVD)

  • Surface science and analytical instrumentation

  • Particle accelerators and synchrotron facilities

  • Vacuum system integration and distribution networks

  • Research laboratories requiring high vacuum integrity

Technical Parameters

ParameterTypical Value / RangeImportance
MaterialSS304L / SS316LCorrosion resistance & UHV compatibility
Flange TypeConFlat (CF)Metal seal for UHV
Size RangeCF16 – CF200+System compatibility
Leak Rate≤ 1×10⁻¹⁰ mbar·L/sEnsures vacuum integrity
Surface FinishMachined / electropolishedReduces outgassing
Bake-out Temp.Up to 450°C (typical)UHV system preparation

Comparison with Related Materials

Material/SystemKey AdvantageTypical Application
CF Standard TeeUHV sealing, high reliabilityUHV systems
KF TeeQuick assemblyHV systems
ISO-K TeeLarge diameter capabilityIndustrial vacuum
ASA TeeRobust bolted connectionIndustrial HV systems

FAQ

QuestionAnswer
What type of seal is used in CF tees?A metal-to-metal seal using a copper gasket and knife-edge flange.
Are CF tees suitable for UHV applications?Yes, they are specifically designed for ultra-high vacuum environments.
Can these tees withstand high temperatures?Yes, they are compatible with bake-out temperatures up to ~450°C.
Are reducing tees available?Yes, both equal and reducing configurations can be supplied.
What industries use CF tees most?Semiconductor, research, aerospace, and vacuum technology industries.

Packaging

Our Conflat (CF) UHV Standard Tees are meticulously tagged and labeled externally to ensure efficient identification and maintain high standards of quality control. Each component is carefully cleaned, vacuum-packed, and protected against contamination and mechanical damage during storage and transportation.

Conclusion

Conflat (CF) UHV Standard Tees provide a reliable and high-performance solution for branching vacuum systems in ultra-high vacuum environments. With their robust construction, excellent sealing capability, and compatibility with demanding applications, they are indispensable components in modern vacuum engineering.

For detailed specifications and a quotation, please contact us at sales@thinfilmmaterials.com.

Ordering Table

Flange Size/OD Flange Material Drawing Part Number
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0133
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0212
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0275
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0337
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0450
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0450S
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0462
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0600
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0600S
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0675
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0800
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-0800S
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-1000
304L SS 304L SS Tooltip T-1325

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FAQ

Tube fittings are designed for tubes (measured by outside diameter and wall thickness) used in high-pressure and instrumentation applications, whereas pipe fittings are for pipes (identified by nominal pipe size) primarily used in fluid transport.

 

Common valve types include ball valves, gate valves, check valves, butterfly valves, and globe valves. Each serves a specific function—from quick shutoff (ball/gate valves) to flow regulation (globe valves).

 

  • For tubing, measure the outside diameter; for pipes, refer to the nominal pipe size (using conversion charts if needed). Always match the valve or fitting size to your pipe’s dimensions and flow requirements.

  • Frequently used thread types include NPT (National Pipe Tapered), BSP (British Standard Pipe), and UNC, along with slip-fit options that rely on compression or fusion rather than threads.

Interchangeability depends on manufacturer specifications and certification. Always verify compatibility via manufacturer guides or certified interchangeability charts.

 

  • A coupling is a short, straight fitting used to join two pipes or tubes. It provides a secure, leak-tight connection and can sometimes serve to extend or repair piping runs.

Consider valve type, pressure and temperature ratings, material compatibility with your fluid, actuation method (manual or automatic), and maintenance requirements.

 

  • Valves regulate flow by opening, closing, or partially obstructing the pathway. Their mechanisms (such as the rotation of a ball or the linear movement of a gate) determine the speed and precision of flow control.

  • A flange is a flat, circular component used to connect pipes, valves, or other equipment. Bolted together with gaskets, flanges provide a secure, leak-proof joint that facilitates both assembly and maintenance.

  • Manual valves require physical operation via handles or levers, whereas actuated valves use mechanisms—pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic—to open and close automatically or remotely.

  • Issues include leaks caused by improper installation, over-tightening, degraded seals, material incompatibility, and fatigue from repeated cycling. Regular inspection and proper installation practices help mitigate these problems.

Regular maintenance involves periodic inspections, cleaning or replacing worn seals, ensuring proper torque during installation, and adhering to manufacturer guidelines and local plumbing codes to preserve system integrity.

 

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