EL 284 - Advanced Vacuum Systems and Troubleshooting

Credit Hours: 3

This course introduces: the sources of gas load in high vacuum system; Knudsen number interpretation; critical components of a high vacuum system, including various pumps and gauges; residual gas analyzers; advanced leak detection including helium leak detection; running processes with mass flow controllers; advanced troubleshooting and maintenance topics; and ultra-high vacuum systems and applications. Students work with a model high vacuum system to complete activities intended to help them understand high vacuum system functions and characteristics.

Course Outcomes
At the completion of the course, the student will be able to:

define vacuum terminology terms and units;
explain the function and purpose of high and ultra-high vacuum systems components;
perform advanced system calculations and select proper components and materials for high vacuum applications;
design, build, and test/troubleshoot a high vacuum system; and
analyze experimentally obtained data and prepare well-written laboratory reports.

Prerequisites: EL 232
F/S (N)