TFM Flange System for High Vacuum and UHV Applications
The TFM flange system is renowned for its extensive use in high vacuum and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) applications. It supports a variety of vacuum components, including gauges, instruments, accessories, and feedthroughs, making it a versatile choice for many systems.
Blank (Blind) Flanges: Design and Utility
A blank (or blind) flange is a solid, disc-shaped fitting that is utilized in vacuum systems to seal off unused sections of tubing or ports. These flanges can also be customized through machining to fit specific requirements, providing flexibility in the design and modification of vacuum setups.
Sealing Mechanism of TFM Flanges
TFM flanges feature a knife-edge sealing mechanism, strategically machined below the flange’s flat surface. As the bolts are tightened in a flange pair, the knife-edges cut annular grooves in a soft metal gasket. This action compresses the gasket, allowing the extruded metal to fill in any machining marks and surface irregularities, creating a leak-tight seal. TFM seals operate effectively from 760 torr (103 mbar) down to less than 1 x 10^-13 Torr (1.3 x 10^-13 mbar) and are capable of functioning within a temperature range of -196°C to 450°C, depending on the material used.
Flange Size Reference
In North America, TFM flange sizes are typically specified by their outer diameter (O.D.). In contrast, in Europe and much of Asia, the nominal internal diameter (nominal I.D.)—the maximum tube size that can be welded to a bored flange—is often used for sizing nomenclature.
Types of TFM Flanges
TFM flanges are available in several versions, each designed to cater to different installation requirements:
Fixed Flange
The fixed flange features a one-piece design where the orientation of the bolt holes is fixed concerning the fitting. This design is useful when a specific alignment is necessary.
Rotatable Flange
A rotatable flange comprises two components: an inner weld ring and an outer bolt ring. This design allows the bolt ring to rotate around the inner weld ring, facilitating easier alignment during installation, especially in complex configurations.
Both fixed and rotatable flanges can be offered with either through (clearance) holes or tapped holes, giving users the flexibility to choose based on their installation needs.
Applications of TFM Flanges
Due to their exceptional sealing properties and versatility, TFM flanges are widely used across various industries that require stringent vacuum integrity. They are essential in semiconductor manufacturing, scientific research, and high-energy physics, where maintaining high or ultra-high vacuum conditions is critical.
Through (Clearance) Holes
Are through-holes that allow adequate clearance for bolts to go through both flanges and secured by nuts or plate nuts.
Tapped Holes
Are imperial or metric threaded holes machined through the flange. This allows a clearance-hole flange to be connected without the need for nuts or plate nuts. Be aware of a components bolt hole orientation when selecting tapped flanges.
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