Overview
ALS130H Hardware Manual
1.4. Vacuum Operation
Contact the factory for information regarding operation in a vacuum environment.
Aerotech can specially prepare the ALS130H for operation in vacuum environments. Aerotech offers two
vacuum preparation options; one for low vacuum (for use in atmospheric pressures to 10
-3
Torr) and one for
high vacuum (preparation for environments from 10
-3
to 10
-6
Torr). As part of this preparation, attention to
detail during modification, cleaning, and assembly results in products with optimal performance in vacuum
applications.
Vacuum Guidelines
To make sure that the ALS130H will continue to perform well in the vacuum environment, use the guidelines
that follow (in addition to standard handling, installation, and lubrication guidelines outlined in this manual).
l
Do not remove the ALS130H from its sealed bag until it is ready to use.
l
Always handle the ALS130H in a clean environment and use powder-free polyethylene gloves to prevent
any contaminants from adhering to the surface of the ALS130H.
l
During installation, use cleaned, vented, stainless steel fasteners when securing the ALS130H.
l
Reduced air pressure eliminates significant convective heat transfer. This, coupled with the viscous
vacuum-compatible lubricants, could result in excessive motor operating temperatures. Because of this,
consider all continuous torque ratings to be 40 to 60% lower than the value specified for operation in
normal atmospheric environment. Reduce motor usage accordingly.
l
For vacuum applications, the recommended lubricant is a small quantity of
Braycote® 602EF
grease or
a compatible substitute of equal quality.
l
Baking vacuum components significantly reduces outgassing at initial pump-down to vacuum pressure
and evaporates water vapor that impregnates porous surfaces on the aluminum and Teflon cables.
Aerotech recommends that customers bake out vacuum systems when first installing them in the
vacuum chamber. Contact Aerotech for bakeout temperatures and times for your application.
12
Chapter 1
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