Core feedthroughs (fast reference)

PurposeTypical specSeal / ThreadNotes
Electrical powerIEC/Schuko; 110–240 V, 10–16 AHermetic ceramic; O-ring bulkheadUse separate low-noise line for balances/sensors.
Signals / RFBNC, SMA; DB-9/DB-25Hermetic glass-to-metalKeep HV/RF away from solvent shelf; strain relief inside.
Vacuum lineKF16/KF25 (NW16/25)KF clamp + Viton O-ringFor antechamber pump, gauges, traps.
Process gas¼” VCR / ¼” NPT/BSPPMetal-seal (VCR) / tapered (NPT)VCR for ultra-low leak & repeated service.
Cooling / liquids¼” compression (Swagelok)O-ring bulkheadAdd drip leg; avoid top-entry over electronics.
Data / networkEthernet, USB (pass-through)Hermetic RJ45/USB or pigtailPrefer panel pigtail to avoid connector wear.

Sealing choices (how to pick)

  • Elastomer O-ring bulkheads (Viton/EPDM)
    • Pros: Flexible, easy to add/replace, low cost.
    • Cons: Higher leak potential than hermetic; solvent/temperature limits.
  • Hermetic glass/ceramic (glass-to-metal, alumina)
    • Pros: Very low leak, high temp/solvent resistance, long life.
    • Cons: Fixed spec, pricier; changes = new part.

Threads & seats:

  • VCR/VCO for metal-to-metal seal (inert, repeatable).
  • NPT needs correct sealant; avoid over-torque on plastic/acrylic panels.
  • BSPP (G-thread) uses a gasket; mind compatibility.

Layout tips (clean flow, fewer headaches)

  • Put vacuum & traps on the shortest route to the antechamber.
  • Keep solvent-related lines low and away from power/data.
  • Reserve a service rail (spare KF16 + blind caps) for future tools.
  • Add ground studs/ESD bonding near electronics benches.
  • Label inside & outside; keep spare caps/O-rings at the load-lock.

Leak & safety after install (2-minute SOP)

  1. Pressure-decay test at +5 mbar for 10–15 min; record ΔP.
  2. Wipe joints; check that no joints sit above open solvent.
  3. Verify ESD ground continuity for powered tools.
  4. Log part numbers, torque, and the test result.

Quote checklist (copy-paste to supplier)

  • Application & gases (N₂/Ar + process gases):
  • O₂/H₂O targets (ppm / °C dew point):
  • Feedthrough list: qty × type × size × thread/seat (e.g., 2× KF25, 3× ¼” VCR, 1× IEC 16 A)
  • Hermetic or O-ring? Temperature/solvent exposure?
  • Panel thickness & material; preferred locations (left/right/back)
  • Accessories: caps, blind flanges, traps, gauges, ESD studs