Hydraulically (Hydro) Formed Bellows – ConFlat (CF) UHV Flanged (Thin Unbraided Wall)

Introduction

Hydraulically formed (hydroformed) bellows with ConFlat (CF) flanges are critical components in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, designed to provide flexibility, vibration isolation, and precise motion compensation while maintaining leak-tight integrity. Featuring a thin, unbraided wall construction, these bellows are ideal for applications requiring high sensitivity, low spring rates, and minimal mechanical resistance.

Detailed Description

Hydroformed CF bellows are manufactured from seamless stainless steel tubing (typically 316L or AM350) using a high-pressure hydraulic forming process. This method produces uniform, thin-walled convolutions with excellent flexibility and fatigue resistance compared to mechanically formed or welded bellows.

The thin unbraided wall design allows for greater axial, lateral, and angular movement, making these bellows particularly suitable for precision alignment systems, thermal expansion compensation, and vibration isolation in UHV environments. Unlike braided bellows, the absence of an արտաքին braid reduces stiffness, enabling smoother motion and lower force requirements.

Each bellows assembly is welded to ConFlat (CF) flanges, which utilize knife-edge sealing with copper gaskets to achieve ultra-high vacuum performance (down to 10⁻¹⁰ mbar or better). The internal surface is typically smooth and clean, minimizing virtual leaks and outgassing—critical for UHV applications.

These bellows can be supplied in various lengths, convolution counts, and flange sizes (e.g., CF16 to CF160 and beyond), with optional features such as formed collars, liners, or custom geometries depending on system requirements.

Key features include:

• Hydroformed thin-wall construction for superior flexibility

• Seamless stainless steel material for high purity and durability

• UHV compatibility with CF knife-edge flange sealing

• Low spring rate for sensitive motion applications

• Excellent fatigue life under cyclic მოძრაობ

• Customizable dimensions and configurations

Applications

Hydroformed CF bellows are widely used in:

• Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems and beamlines

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

• Particle accelerators and synchrotron facilities

• Precision positioning and alignment systems

• Vacuum chambers requiring thermal expansion compensation

• Aerospace and scientific instrumentation

Technical Parameters

Comparison with Related Materials

FAQ

Packaging

Our Hydraulically Formed CF UHV Bellows are meticulously tagged and labeled externally to ensure efficient identification and maintain high standards of quality control. Each unit is carefully cleaned, vacuum-sealed, and packaged to prevent contamination or mechanical damage during storage and transportation, ensuring optimal performance upon installation.

Conclusion

Hydraulically formed CF bellows with thin unbraided walls provide exceptional flexibility, reliability, and vacuum performance for demanding UHV applications. Their precision construction and customizable design make them indispensable components in advanced scientific, semiconductor, and vacuum engineering systems.

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

Ordering Table

Drawing	FlangeSize	Length	WallThickness	Part Number	VacuCADSM
	1-1/3"	3	0.006	MHT-CF-A03	N/A
	1-1/3"	6	0.006	MHT-CF-A06	N/A
	1-1/3"	10	0.006	MHT-CF-A10	N/A
	1-1/3"	12	0.006	MHT-CF-A12	N/A
	1-1/3"	18	0.006	MHT-CF-A18	N/A
	1-1/3"	20	0.006	MHT-CF-A20	N/A
	1-1/3"	24	0.006	MHT-CF-A24	N/A
	1-1/3"	30	0.006	MHT-CF-A30	N/A
	1-1/3"	36	0.006	MHT-CF-A36	N/A
	2-1/8"	6	0.006	MHT-CF-B06	N/A
	2-3/4"	3	0.006	MHT-CF-C03	N/A
	2-3/4"	6	0.006	MHT-CF-C06	N/A
	2-3/4"	10	0.006	MHT-CF-C10	N/A
	2-3/4"	12	0.006	MHT-CF-C12	N/A
	2-3/4"	18	0.006	MHT-CF-C18	N/A
	2-3/4"	20	0.006	MHT-CF-C20	N/A
	2-3/4"	24	0.006	MHT-CF-C24	N/A
	2-3/4"	30	0.006	MHT-CF-C30	N/A
	2-3/4"	36	0.006	MHT-CF-C36	N/A
	2-3/4"	40	0.006	MHT-CF-C40	N/A
	2-3/4"	48	0.006	MHT-CF-C48	N/A
	3-3/8"	6	0.006	MHT-CF-D06	N/A
	4-1/2"	6	0.006	MHT-CF-E06	N/A
	6"	6	0.010	MHT-CF-G06	N/A
	6-3/4"	6	0.010	MHT-CF-H06	N/A
	8"	6	0.010	MHT-CF-J06	N/A

Accessories Table