CNC Machining for High Vacuum Applications

In the demanding fields of aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, scientific research, and particle physics, high vacuum environments are essential. These applications require components that can maintain integrity and performance under extreme pressure differentials, preventing outgassing and resisting minute particle generation. CNC machining stands as a critical manufacturing process for producing the highprecision, ultrareliable parts that these systems demand.


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The primary challenge in high vacuum machining is achieving and maintaining a vacuumtight seal. This begins with material selection. Not all metals and plastics are suitable. Common choices include:
Stainless Steels (e.g., 304, 316): Excellent for their corrosion resistance, strength, and low outgassing properties when properly passivated.
Aluminum Alloys (e.g., 6061): Often used for complex vacuum chambers and fixtures due to their machinability and light weight. Anodizing is frequently applied to seal the surface and reduce outgassing.
Copper & its Alloys: Prized for their high thermal conductivity, making them ideal for heat sinks and cryogenic applications.
Specialty Plastics (e.g., PEEK, VESPEL, PTFE): Chosen for specific electrical or thermal insulation properties, but their outgassing rates must be carefully evaluated.

Beyond material choice, the entire machining and postprocessing workflow is tailored for vacuum compatibility. Key considerations include:

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1. Surface Finish: A smooth surface finish (often specified as a low Ra value) is crucial. Rough surfaces can trap contaminants and create virtual leaks, dramatically increasing pumpdown time. CNC machining can achieve the necessary mirrorlike finishes, which are often further enhanced by processes like electropolishing for metals.
2. Preventing Virtual Leaks: Machinists must design and machine parts to eliminate blind holes, tight crevices, and trapped volumes where air can be concealed, slowly releasing and compromising the vacuum.
3. Cleanliness: Components must be manufactured in a clean environment to prevent contamination from oils, dust, or fingerprints. Special tooling and meticulous handling protocols are mandatory. A thorough cleaning process using ultrapure solvents in a controlled cleanroom is the final step before packaging.



Our company specializes in providing CNC machining services tailored for highvacuum applications. We understand the critical interplay between material science, precision machining, and rigorous postprocessing. From complex vacuum chamber flanges and feedthrough holders to custom fixturing and sensor mounts, we deliver components that meet the stringent standards of MILSTD1330 and ASTM E595 for outgassing.

By partnering with us, you gain access to expertise that ensures your components are not just precisely machined, but are vacuumready from the first installation. This reduces your assembly time, minimizes risk of system failure, and accelerates your time to market for your most advanced products. Trust us to be your seamless extension for manufacturing components that perform flawlessly under pressure—or the lack thereof.