CF Flexible Braided Coupling - Ultra-High Vacuum Solution for Precision Applications

CF Flexible Braided Coupling

This guide explores CF Flexible Braided Couplings' construction with 304/316L stainless steel CF flanges and aramid fiber braids, technical specifications for vacuum systems, and installation best practices for particle accelerators, semiconductor tools and space simulation chambers.

Product Introduction: CF Flexible Braided Coupling

The CF Flexible Braided Coupling combines ConFlat flange reliability with flexible torque transmission for ultra-high vacuum rotary applications requiring precise motion transfer and vibration isolation.

Key Advantages

✔ UHV/XHV compatible - Achieves 10⁻¹⁰ mbar leak rates
✔ Multi-axis compensation - ±2mm axial, ±1° angular misalignment
✔ High torque capacity - Up to 50Nm (DN63 size)
✔ Long service life - 10M+ cycles with aramid fiber braid
✔ Corrosion resistant - 316L stainless steel construction

Industry Application Cases

Case 1: EUV Lithography Tool

Semiconductor manufacturer achieved:

10⁻⁹ mbar base pressure stability

0.1μm positioning accuracy

3-year maintenance-free operation

Case 2: Synchrotron Beamline

Performance highlights:

Handled 10⁻¹⁰ mbar ultra-high vacuum

Compensated 0.8mm thermal expansion

Zero particle generation after 2M cycles

Case 3: Spacecraft Test Chamber

Key results:

Maintained seal during -196°C to +150°C thermal cycling

Vibration attenuation >90% at 100Hz

Passed NASA outgassing requirements

CF Flexible Coupling FAQs

1. How often should seals be replaced?

Copper seals: 5-10 bakeout cycles
Stainless seals: 50+ cycles

2. Can it handle cryogenic temperatures?

Yes, specially tested for -270°C to +300°C operation.

3. What's the bakeout procedure?

Gradual heating to 250°C at <50°C/hour, hold for 4 hours.

4. How to verify leak tightness?

Helium leak check at 1×10⁻¹⁰ mbar·L/s sensitivity.

5. Is dynamic balancing available?

Yes, optional <0.1g·cm imbalance for high-speed applications.

6. What maintenance is required?

Annual visual inspection

Torque verification every 6 months

Braid replacement at 10M cycles

7. Can custom lengths be ordered?

Yes, braid sections from 50-500mm with same performance.

8. How to handle corrosive gases?

316L stainless steel with gold-plated seals available.

9. What's the lead time?

Standard sizes: 2-3 weeks
Custom designs: 4-6 weeks

10. Is ATEX version available?

Yes, explosion-proof models for hazardous environments.

Conclusion

CF Flexible Braided Couplings provide unmatched UHV performance for precision motion transfer in semiconductor, research and aerospace applications. Their metal-sealed construction and advanced braid design deliver reliable torque transmission while compensating for thermal and mechanical misalignment.

For critical vacuum applications requiring both hermetic sealing and precise rotation, these couplings offer the ideal solution. Our engineering team can assist with custom configurations for your specific vacuum and motion requirements.