TFM Flanges for High Vacuum and UHV Applications
The TFM flange system is recognized as the leading choice for high vacuum and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) applications. This versatile system supports a wide array of components, including gauges, instruments, accessories, and feedthroughs, making it ideal for various vacuum setups.
Understanding Blank (Blind) Flanges
A blank (or blind) flange is a solid, disc-shaped fitting designed for use in vacuum systems. Its primary function is to close off unused tubing sections or ports on a vacuum chamber. Additionally, these flanges can be machined to create customized fittings, allowing for greater flexibility in design.
The Sealing Mechanism of TFM Flanges
TFM flanges feature a knife-edge sealing mechanism, which is machined below the flange’s flat surface. When the bolts of a flange pair are tightened, the knife-edges cut annular grooves on both sides of a soft metal gasket. As the gasket material extrudes into these grooves, it fills any machining marks and surface defects, resulting in a leak-tight seal. TFM seals operate effectively across a pressure range from 760 torr (103 mbar) down to < 1 x 10^-13 Torr (< 1.3 x 10^-13 mbar) and can withstand temperatures from -196°C to 450°C, depending on the materials involved.
Flange Size Nomenclature
In North America, the sizes of TFM flanges are typically identified by their outer diameter (O.D.). In contrast, European and Asian standards often refer to the nominal internal diameter (I.D.) of the largest tube that can be welded to a bored flange.
Available Versions of TFM Flanges
TFM flanges come in several variations to meet different operational requirements:
Fixed Flange
The fixed flange is a single-piece design with a bolt-hole orientation that remains constant relative to the fitting. This design is beneficial for installations where a specific alignment is essential.
Rotatable Flange
The rotatable flange consists of two parts: an inner weld ring and an outer bolt ring. This design allows the bolt ring to rotate around the inner weld ring, simplifying the alignment of the bolt holes during installation.
Both fixed and rotatable TFM flanges can be supplied with your choice of through (clearance) holes or tapped holes, providing additional flexibility in application.
Applications of TFM Flanges
Due to their robust sealing capabilities and adaptability, TFM flanges are widely used across various industries requiring high or ultra-high vacuum conditions. They play a crucial role in sectors such as semiconductor manufacturing, materials research, and scientific instrumentation, where maintaining optimal vacuum integrity is paramount.
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