A good primer for individuals not familiar with High Vac systems.

Posted by JIm on 14th Nov 2022

I need an ultra-high vacuum system for an experimental system. Funding has gotten tight so I’m considering other low-cost solutions. The VA-2 document is an excellent starting point for anyone not familiar with ultra-high vacuum systems. It provides the necessary information along with a technical background to produce a system with an estimated cost for under $500.00 as compared to a turbo vac pump system costing more than $10,000. It does require using your own ingenuity such as fabricating a diffusion pump. Interesting to consider making from modified copper pipe fittings and tubing. Use a heating tape from Grainger and tin can as a boiler.