Electrical Feedthroughs

  • Large variety of electrical feedthroughs with wide range of electrical ratings to cover most requirements
  • Voltage ratings are conservative DC flashover with clean ceramics
  • Special feedthroughs can be constructed for your application 

Electrical feedthroughs are used to transfer electrical power through the vacuum system wall. There are many different types of feedthrough but they can be divided into two categories; Power, and Instrumentation. Power feedthroughs are used to carry either high current, or high voltage, or both. Instrumentation feedthroughs are used to carry electrical signals (including thermocouples) which are normally low current and/or voltage.

Using Electrical Feedthroughs

Electrical feedthroughs will give long and reliable service if they are properly treated. They must be stored carefully and kept free from damage. When they are baked they must have their temperature accurately controlled. During bakeout we recommend that you do not cover the external surface of the feedthrough with foil as the aluminium can rub off onto the ceramic and cause an electrical short. It is important not to exceed the feedthrough temperature and power ratings as this can damage the feedthrough, or cause vacuum leaks.

It is important to consider the electrical feedthroughs when your system has stopped baking; opening the bakeout ovens with the system still hot can cause unacceptable cooling temperature ramp rates.

 

 

IMPORTANT PRODUCT INFORMATION

The user must always take adequate safety precautions when feedthroughs are operated at high voltages or currents. Remember that many of the external ends of the feedthroughs can be exposed. Please note that the ceramics can absorb moisture under certain atmospheric conditions which may reduce stated breakdown voltages; this may be improved by bakeout. Electrical ratings specified apply in clean vacuum or dry atmospheric conditions.