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KF Flanged Sapphire Viewports

KF Flanged Sapphire Viewports

Introduction

KF Flanged Sapphire Viewports are high-performance optical windows designed for vacuum systems that require excellent optical clarity, mechanical strength, and chemical durability. By combining ISO-KF quick-connect flanges with sapphire optical windows, these viewports provide reliable visual access and optical transmission for rough to high-vacuum applications in laboratory, semiconductor, and industrial environments.

Detailed Description

Sapphire viewports utilize single-crystal aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) as the window material. Sapphire is valued for its exceptional hardness, high thermal stability, and wide optical transmission range, extending from ultraviolet (UV) through visible to infrared (IR). Compared with standard glass or quartz, sapphire offers significantly higher mechanical strength and scratch resistance, making it ideal for demanding vacuum conditions.

The KF flange design allows fast installation and removal using standard clamps and centering rings, enabling flexible system configuration and easy maintenance. The sapphire window is typically brazed or sealed into a stainless steel housing, ensuring vacuum integrity and long-term stability. High-quality sealing methods minimize outgassing and ensure consistent optical performance during vacuum operation and moderate bake-out cycles.

These viewports are suitable for visual inspection, optical diagnostics, laser alignment, and process monitoring. Their compact design makes them especially useful in space-constrained vacuum setups.

Applications

KF Flanged Sapphire Viewports are widely used in:

  • Laboratory and research vacuum systems

  • Semiconductor and thin-film deposition equipment

  • Optical diagnostics and laser alignment

  • Plasma observation and process monitoring

  • Leak detection and system inspection

  • Educational and industrial vacuum setups

Technical Parameters

ParameterTypical Value / RangeImportance
Window MaterialSapphire (single crystal Al₂O₃)High strength and optical clarity
Flange StandardKF16 / KF25 / KF40Compatible with ISO-KF systems
Optical TransmissionUV–Visible–IRSupports optical monitoring
Body Material304 / 316L Stainless SteelVacuum compatibility and durability
Sealing MethodBrazed or metal-sealed assemblyEnsures leak-tight performance
Operating PressureAtmosphere to high vacuumSuitable for most KF applications
TemperatureLimited by seal designSupports moderate bake-out

Comparison with Other Viewport Materials

Viewport MaterialKey AdvantageTypical Application
SapphireHigh strength, scratch resistantOptical diagnostics
Fused QuartzGood UV transmissionGeneral observation
Borosilicate GlassCost-effectiveLow-demand vacuum viewing

FAQ

QuestionAnswer
Why choose sapphire over quartz?Sapphire offers higher mechanical strength and scratch resistance.
Are KF clamps and centering rings required?Yes, standard KF hardware is needed for installation.
Can these viewports handle laser exposure?Yes, sapphire is well suited for laser alignment and diagnostics.
Are custom sizes available?Custom flange sizes and window thicknesses can be supplied.
Are they suitable for high vacuum?Yes, within the limits of KF sealing systems.

Packaging

Our KF Flanged Sapphire Viewports are carefully cleaned, capped, and packaged with protective materials to prevent scratches and contamination. Each unit is clearly labeled to ensure safe handling, storage, and transportation.

Conclusion

KF Flanged Sapphire Viewports provide a durable and optically superior solution for viewing and diagnostic access in vacuum systems. Their combination of sapphire’s exceptional material properties and the convenience of KF flanges makes them ideal for laboratory, semiconductor, and industrial vacuum applications.

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

Charts

Ordering Table

Drawing Flange / Mounting Window Material View Area Window Thickness Flange Material Sleeve Material Thermal Range Parallelism Surface Finish Transmission Orientation PartNumber
Tooltip KF16 (1.18" OD) UV Sapphire 0.60 0.062 304L SS Kovar -100C to 450C <3 Arc Minutes 50/20 Scratch-Dig 50%@250nm (External) 0-90 Deg QF16-075-VPS
Tooltip KF25 (1.57" OD) UV Sapphire 0.60 0.062 304L SS Kovar -100C to 450C <3 Arc Minutes 50/20 Scratch-Dig 50%@250nm (External) 0-90 Deg QF25-100-VPS
Tooltip KF40 (2.16" OD) UV Sapphire 0.94 0.080 304L SS Kovar -100C to 450C <3 Arc Minutes 50/20 Scratch-Dig 50%@250nm (External) 0-90 Deg QF40-150-VPS
Tooltip KF50 (2.95" OD) UV Sapphire 0.94 0.080 304L SS Kovar -100C to 450C <3 Arc Minutes 50/20 Scratch-Dig 50%@250nm (External) 0-90 Deg QF50-200-VPS

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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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