Collecting data from a spectrometer has always presented unique challenges. Now, couple that with data collection in an ultra-high vacuum environment and intermittent pressures. This is precisely what a leading national laboratory focusing on American defense asked BCE to supply. This client was concerned with data collection across an ultra-high vacuum chamber using a unique feedthrough that would be easy to install, prevent damage to expensive equipment, and maintain employee safety.
BCE proposed its Optic Cable feedthrough as the ultimate solution to this design conundrum. The flexible stainless steel conduit of the fiber optic cable along with its connectors coupled easily with the spectrometer and company devices. The CF flange of the feedthrough mounted effortlessly into the vacuum chamber wall and BCE’s proprietary epoxy seal meeting NASA ASTM E595 allowed for less than 0.1% of volatiles to emanate into the environment and with less than 1% of mass loss. Further testing of BCE’s optic cable feedthrough at the client facility revealed that it remained operable at varied, high pressures while ensuring an ultra-high vacuum seal.
