It might be challenging to determine what fittings and components are required to generate perfect vacuum settings despite the widespread availability of vacuum technology. This article defines vacuum flanges and discusses potential applications. First, we'll examine the role flanges play in the development of vacuum systems.
What Are Vacuum Flanges? 
Flanges attach components. For instance, flanges attach optics to cameras and to connect pipelines within a wall. Flanges are the connections between vacuum chambers, compressors, and tubing in vacuum systems.
While flanges keep system components in position, they also make assembly and disassembly possible. It is advantageous for vacuum experiments requiring periodic system reconfiguration or the addition of new components. When maintaining, cleansing, and monitoring your system, the ability to disassemble vacuum components is exceptionally beneficial. Consistent maintenance reduces system delay and is one of the most important principles for working in high-vacuum and ultra-high-vacuum environments.
The Different Types of Flanges
There are multiple kinds of flange standards, diameters, and attachment mechanisms, each suitable for a particular vacuum regime. However, finding the correct flange may be difficult since various manufacturers use different naming methods to identify their flanges. Fortunately, understanding the various standards will help you comprehend these differences in manufacturer nomenclature. We break down a few flange standards below:
- NW
NW fittings are the industry standard for vacuum components in the low and medium vacuum ranges, and they work on a wide range of equipment.
- ISO
A centering ring and an elastomer o-ring connect ISO fittings.
- CF
CF fittings have an ultrahigh vacuum seal because they use a copper cover and a knife-edge lip.
Why Are Gaskets Important for Flange Use?
The proper gasket is essential to the operation of any flange. With these gaskets in place, a vacuum seal may be maintained once flanges are joined. The most popular materials for vacuum gaskets are Teflon, silicone rubber, Viton fluoropolymer, and Buna rubber. A gasket's placement may be maintained with the use of a centering ring, a groove, or individual metal rings.
In situations when ultra-high vacuum is required, the rubberized gasket is swapped out with a soft metal gasket that is secured between the mating flanges using knife edges. This metal gasket is often constructed of copper in CF flanges but may also be made with gold or indium.
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