Operation and Applications:
HIGHVAC CF flanges offer superior leak-free performance for vacuum applications requiring 1×10-13 torr or higher and temperature ranges from -196o to +500o C. Each flange face has an identical knife edge. These flanges are tightened together with a copper gasket between them to form an extremely reliable leak tight seal. CF flanges are especially designed for ultra-high vacuum. The CF flange system is superior for applications requiring very clean
environments, high temperatures and for the containment of toxic, corrosive or radioactive gases.
Information on Assembly, Hardware and Accessories:
HIGHVAC offers all hardware necessary to assemble CF flanges and fittings. The copper gasket is captured between mating CF flanges. Gaskets are made from high-purity, oxygen free 1/4 hard copper which is de-burred, chemically treated and individually packaged. Viton® gaskets are available for leak testing purposes and for unbaked applications.
Maximum torque requirements to generate vacuum tight seals are as follows:
| 11/3” O.D. (Mini ) | 5 ft/lbs. |
| 21/8”-23/4” O.D. | 16 ft/lbs. |
| 33/8”-161/2” O.D. | 26 ft/lbs. |
Note: Over-torquing can result in broken bolts.
HIGHVAC offers high tensile stainless bolts, washers and nuts. These are available in standard versions, 12 point (dodecagon) style, and silver plated (12-point only).
Bakeout: For high temperature bakeouts, use either HIGHVAC high temperature thread lubricant or HIGHVAC silver plated 12-point bolts to prevent galling and seizing.
Plate Nuts: HIGHVAC plate nuts as the most convenient way of mating flanges. These plate nuts allow two adjacent bolts to be coupled to a single nut piece. A must for areas where accessibility is limited and reduced access does not allow enough clearance for tools.
Custom Components: Custom configurations are available. HIGHVAC can modify, design, machine, weld and helium leak test special components within forty-eight (48) hours depending on the complexity of the modifications.