Reliable UHV Solutions for High-Precision Measurements
Surface science equipment is fundamental for studying the physical and chemical phenomena that occur at the interfaces of different phases, such as solid-liquid, solid-gas, and solid-vacuum. Advanced surface analysis techniques—including ARPES, SPM, XPS, LEEM/PEEM, and Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE)—require stable, clean ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions to deliver high-quality, reproducible results.
Depending on the technique, base pressures typically range from 1E-9 to 1E-11 Torr, with even lower pressures required for highly sensitive applications in basic research, semiconductor material analysis, exotic materials, and fuel cell R&D.
To ensure optimal measurement accuracy, surface science vacuum systems must integrate pumps that deliver high pumping speed for hydrogen (H₂)—the primary residual gas in UHV environments—while remaining oil-free, vibration-free, and featuring minimal or zero magnetic fields that could interfere with precision experiments.
SAES CapaciTorr® Z NEG pumps, often combined with existing turbo molecular pumps (TMPs), sputter ion pumps (SIPs), or cryogenic pumps, significantly enhance vacuum performance by increasing hydrogen pumping efficiency without adding power load or complexity. For compact, magnetically clean solutions, the NEXTorr® Z series—including NEXTorr Z500, Z1000, and Z2000—offers a cutting-edge alternative to bulkier pumps, enabling ultra-clean and stable vacuum environments for next-level surface science research.
Unique Features of SAES Non Evaporable Getter (NEG) Pumps
High Pumping Speed
High pumping speed for H2 is essential for achieving deep and clean UHV conditions, ensuring that the system is free from unwanted contaminants and impurities that could interfere with the measurements.
Vibration-free
Absence of vibrations is crucial in Surface Science Equipment as any mechanical disturbance can affect the precision and accuracy of the measurements.
Minimal Magnetic Field
Reduced or absent magnetic fields (static or B gradients) are also necessary to minimize any detrimental interferences on the measurements, allowing for accurate and reliable data to be collected.
Clean Environment
Clean pumps (sintered) are a plus for any UHV system, especially in Surface Science Equipment, as they prevent any contamination from the pump oil or other materials that could interfere with the measurements.
