Section I - Law & Definitions - - - Time 4 - 6 Hrs..

This section is intended to review the basic physical principles involved.  It is, most often, "new" material for the non-professional and a much-needed review for the professional.  Simple calculations are used, by way of illustration, and material in class notes (hand-outs) is used for support. The students are encouraged to solve simple gas physics problems using basic algebra and the gas laws. The use of scientific notation and conversion between various units of measurement are stressed.
 

Section II - Components - - - Time 10 - 12 Hrs..

The approach here is to apply Section I material in a study of each of the components which make up a basic diffusion-pumped bell jar system, including specifications, variations between vendors and common considerations for each component.
 

Section III - Complete System - - - Time 8 - 10 Hrs..
 

In this section, the components discussed in Section II are assembled into a complete system. Sequential valving is discussed along with safety devices, optimum gauge points, required utilities, some practical design tricks, pump sizing vs. cycle times, and for design-oriented people, an example system's design parameters are discussed. The objective is to fix basic design requirements in the students mind, using the most common basic system as a vehicle, so that later, many concepts in advanced pumping techniques are self-explanatory.    
 

Section IV - Other Pumping Systems  - Time 6 - 10 Hrs...

Sections I, II, and III comprise the general "basics" and in Section IV, this material is applied in a general look at alternate pumping systems. For each of the pump types listed, specific requirements, applications, advantages, disadvantages, and specifications are discussed.  This section may be condensed in the interests of time if needed, especially if class is comprised of students already committed to one particular system. 
      

The objective here is; to familiarize the student with a wide variety of pumping methods, and the designer, in particular, with available options.

Section V - Materials - - - Time 3-6Hrs...

This is an important section. Five basic considerations for material selection of use in vacuum service are discussed. Then classes of material are reviewed in context of these considerations. Handouts and text references for specific materials are reviewed and, in each class, specific examples are drawn in detail. The objective is to make the student review the basic considerations for material selection every time he chooses some material for vacuum service.

 Section VI - General Maintenance ----Time 2-3 Hrs.

In this section, the student is exposed to various practical "tips, hints and kinks" concerning the assembly, and general maintenance of vacuum systems. Topics such as the proper way to install various seals, how to properly tighten a flange, the importance of performance records and troubleshooting tips, are all discussed. Section V and Section VI are generally presented as a blend of practical, everyday information drawn from the instructor’s long experience in this area.

Section VII - Associated Equipment - - Time 4-6 Hrs..

Associated equipment is discussed in general terms in so far as application and operating principles. Various sources of leaks are discussed along with leak rate specifications. Various styles of leak detectors are discussed as well as the specific applications for each type. The student is introduced to correct leak-detection techniques, and the use of leak-up rates as an aid to monitoring system performance. RGA's are discussed, with several types being illustrated. The emphasis is placed on the quadrupole MS with basic instruction in the use of "cracking patterns", using the cracking patterns available in the textbook and samples which are included in the handout. General material is arranged for all sections so as to be presentable in as much or as little detail as time permits.
 

* If you would like a PDF Version of the index and overview of the course click on the icon below.