Introduction
Zero-Length Reducer ConFlat® (CF) UHV Flanges (Standard) are precision-machined vacuum components designed to connect CF flanges of different nominal sizes while maintaining ultra-high vacuum (UHV) integrity. Unlike standard reducer nipples or long transition fittings, zero-length reducers minimize axial length, making them ideal for compact vacuum systems where space optimization and alignment precision are critical.
Engineered for pressures down to 10⁻¹¹ Torr range when properly assembled, these CF reducers are widely used in research laboratories, semiconductor processing equipment, surface science systems, and accelerator facilities.
Detailed Description
Zero-Length Reducer CF UHV Flanges consist of two ConFlat® flange faces of different sizes directly integrated into a single body. The “zero-length” design means that the transition between sizes occurs without extended tubing or additional vacuum volume, reducing dead space and improving conductance efficiency.
Each flange incorporates precision-machined knife edges that deform a soft metal gasket (typically OFHC copper) to create a reliable, all-metal, bakeable seal. This design ensures:
Excellent leak-tight performance
Compatibility with high bake-out temperatures
Long-term vacuum stability
Resistance to outgassing
Standard materials include:
304L or 316L stainless steel for corrosion resistance and structural stability
Optional materials upon request for specialized environments
All sealing surfaces are machined to tight tolerances to guarantee gasket compression uniformity and consistent sealing performance.
Because they introduce no added tube length, zero-length reducers are particularly advantageous in systems where port spacing, beamline alignment, or diagnostic positioning must remain fixed.
Applications
Zero-Length Reducer ConFlat® (CF) UHV Flanges are widely used in:
Ultra-high vacuum research chambers
Surface analysis systems (XPS, AES, SEM interfaces)
Thin film deposition systems (PVD, CVD, MBE)
Particle accelerators and beamlines
Cryogenic vacuum assemblies
Mass spectrometry equipment
Semiconductor process tools
Custom vacuum manifold integration
They are especially useful when adapting existing systems to new instrumentation without redesigning chamber geometry.
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Flange Type | ConFlat® (CF) Standard | UHV metal sealing system |
| Size Range | CF16 – CF250 (custom combinations) | Flexible system integration |
| Material | 304L / 316L Stainless Steel | Vacuum compatibility & strength |
| Sealing Method | OFHC Copper Gasket | Reliable metal-to-metal seal |
| Surface Finish | Vacuum-grade machined finish | Minimizes leak risk |
| Bake-Out Temperature | Up to 450°C (gasket dependent) | UHV preparation capability |
| Leak Rate | ≤ 1 × 10⁻¹⁰ mbar·L/s (typical) | Ensures UHV performance |
Comparison with Related Components
| Component Type | Key Advantage | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Zero-Length CF Reducer | Minimal axial space, compact design | Dense vacuum manifolds |
| CF Reducer Nipple | Adds tubing length | Structural spacing adjustments |
| ISO-K Reducer | Quick clamp installation | High vacuum (HV) systems |
| KF Reducer | Fast assembly | Rough to high vacuum systems |
Compared with reducer nipples, zero-length CF reducers maintain chamber compactness and preserve precise alignment in UHV environments.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What does “zero-length” mean? | It refers to the absence of additional tube length between two different CF flange sizes. |
| Are copper gaskets included? | Gaskets are typically supplied separately unless specified. |
| Can custom size combinations be produced? | Yes, custom CF size transitions are available upon request. |
| Is it suitable for UHV applications? | Yes, when properly installed with copper gaskets, it supports UHV conditions. |
| Can it withstand bake-out? | Yes, compatible with standard UHV bake-out procedures. |
Packaging
Our Zero-Length Reducer ConFlat® (CF) UHV Flanges (Standard) are meticulously tagged and labeled externally to ensure efficient identification and maintain high standards of quality control. Each unit is carefully protected to prevent knife-edge damage during storage and transportation, ensuring the flanges arrive in perfect condition.
Conclusion
Zero-Length Reducer ConFlat® (CF) UHV Flanges (Standard) provide a compact, reliable, and vacuum-tight solution for connecting different CF flange sizes in ultra-high vacuum systems. With precision machining, durable stainless steel construction, and proven metal sealing performance, they are an essential component for advanced vacuum assemblies.
For detailed specifications and a quotation, please contact us at sales@thinfilmmaterials.com.
Ordering Table
| Flange Size/OD | Note | Part Number |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X133 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X212 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X275 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X337 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X450 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X462 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X600 |
| DN200CF (10.00" OD) | — | RF1000X800 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X1000 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X133 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X212 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X275 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X337 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X450 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X462 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X600 |
| DN275CF (13.25" OD) | — | RF1325X800 |
| DN25CF (2.13" OD) | — | RF212X133T |
| DN35CF-DN40CF (2.75" OD) | — | RF275X133 |
| DN35CF-DN40CF (2.75" OD) | — | RF275X212T |
| DN50CF (3.38" OD) | — | RF337X133 |
| DN50CF (3.38" OD) | — | RF337X212T |
| DN50CF (3.38" OD) | — | RF337X275T |
| DN63CF (4.50" OD) | — | RF450X133 |
| DN63CF (4.50" OD) | — | RF450X212 |
| DN63CF (4.50" OD) | — | RF450X275 |
| DN63CF (4.50" OD) | — | RF450X337T |
| DN75CF (4.63" OD) | — | RF462X133 |
| DN75CF (4.63" OD) | — | RF462X212 |
| DN75CF (4.63" OD) | — | RF462X275 |
| DN75CF (4.63" OD) | — | RF462X337 |
| DN100CF (6.00" OD) | — | RF600X133 |
| DN100CF (6.00" OD) | — | RF600X212 |
| DN100CF (6.00" OD) | — | RF600X275 |
| DN100CF (6.00" OD) | — | RF600X337 |
| DN100CF (6.00" OD) | — | RF600X450 |
| DN100CF (6.00" OD) | 1 | RF600X462 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X133 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X212 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X275 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X337 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X450 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X462 |
| DN125CF (6.75" OD) | — | RF675X600T |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X133 |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X212 |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X275 |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X337 |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X450 |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X462 |
| DN160CF (8.00" OD) | — | RF800X600 |
| DN250CF (12.00" OD) | — | RF1200X1000 |
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