Business Guide To Vacuums

An ultra-high vacuum gauge is an extremely important component for any vacuum, as it will measure the pressure of the vacuum chamber. However, if you have taken a quick look on the Internet, you will no doubt have noticed that there are many different UHV vacuum gauges to choose from. This can make it very difficult if you are making this type of purchase for the first time. What are the differences between each gauge? How do you decide which one is right for your vacuum? Don’t worry, as we have all of the answers you require below.

The Different UHV Gauges Available 

Over the past 100 years or so, we have seen the development of a number of new high vacuum gauges . However, it has not always been this way. In fact, for roughly 350 years, starting from 1644, the Torricelli tube was the only instrument that had the ability to measure the pressure of a vacuum. This early barometer was based on an air column’s gravitational force counterbalanced against a pressure divergence in two volumes, separated by liquid mercury. 

Today, we have a number of different options to choose from when businesses are looking for an ultra-high vacuum gauge. The McLeod gauge was long one of the most popular and accurate, yet it is no longer available on the commercial market because of the hazard presented by mercury. Aside from this, there are piston gauges, mechanical gauges, and direct gauges with electrical output. You then have indirect measuring vacuum gauges, which include the likes of thermal conductivity gauges, spinning rotor gauges, and ionisation gauges, which are ideal for fine vacuums. 

In the past, there have also been a number of optical methods used, although these attempts did not have any lasting impact. Today, two of the most popular gauges are undoubtedly the Pirani gauge and the ion gauge. As mentioned, the latter is particularly beneficial in ultra-high vacuum chambers. And, for those who are unaware, the Pirani gauge is a form of thermal conductivity gauge, which operates via the detection of the cooling impact of residual gas molecules on a heated filament. You can also delve deeper into the other components, for example, you can use a rotary sliding vane compressor as a compressor or vacuum pump, and you have gauge controllers and feed-throughs too. 

What To Consider When Choosing A High Vacuum Gauge

Now you know about the different options you have at your disposal when selecting a high vacuum gauge, so we are going to take a look at how you can narrow down your search to choose the best one. The first thing you need to consider is the type of pressure range you are looking for. Most people may say ‘the entire range’, but this will be extremely expensive, and so you should really think about the process that is being measured and what you are actually going to need. For example, a cold cathode Pirani combination may be ideal if the process is not a dirty one. Atmosphere plays a considerable role. You must also consider what accuracy level is vital to you, with a percentage typically being used to express absolute vacuum sensory accuracy. If you need to control and regulate, as well as measuring the pressure, this will mean you need a gauge with more capability than a standard measurement component. Aside from this, consider what kind of power you need and what form factor you are looking for. It is also important to make sure you purchase your gauge and air compressor from a reputable manufacturer, and never simply choose the cheapest you can find.