
( Brand: Chatham Electronics ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: FAA-6146 ), ( Type: Vacuum Tube )
The **Chatham FAA-6146 Tube Plate Getter** is a high-performance, precision-engineered vacuum component designed for demanding applications in scientific research, semiconductor manufacturing, and industrial vacuum systems. This robust getter pump features a **ceramic tube plate assembly** constructed from high-purity alumina (Al O ), ensuring exceptional thermal conductivity, mechanical stability, and resistance to thermal shock. The tube plate is meticulously machined to an ultra-smooth finish, minimizing surface irregularities that could impede gas adsorption or degrade vacuum integrity. Engineered with a **patented design**, the FAA-6146 incorporates a **multi-channel diffusion pathway**, optimizing the distribution of getter material across the tube plate to maximize adsorption efficiency and extend operational lifespan. The getter material itself is a proprietary **high-surface-area alloy**, carefully formulated to deliver superior pumping speeds for reactive and non-reactive gases, including hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and noble gases, while maintaining low outgassing rates even under prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
This getter pump is particularly well-suited for applications requiring **ultra-high vacuum (UHV) or extreme high vacuum (XHV) environments**, such as electron microscopy, thin-film deposition, surface science experiments, and particle accelerator systems. The FAA-6146 s compact yet durable construction allows for seamless integration into existing vacuum chambers, with a **standard flange mounting system** (typically CF or ISO-KF) that ensures a leak-tight seal. Its **self-contained design** eliminates the need for external power sources, making it ideal for portable or remote installations where reliability and simplicity are paramount. The getter material is pre-activated and ready for immediate use, though it can be reactivated multiple times through controlled thermal cycling, offering cost-effective long-term performance.
For enhanced durability, the FAA-6146 is constructed from **high-grade stainless steel housing** with passivated surfaces to prevent corrosion, ensuring compatibility with aggressive chemicals and harsh operating conditions. The tube plate s ceramic material also provides excellent resistance to thermal cycling, allowing the getter to withstand rapid temperature fluctuations without compromising structural integrity. Additionally, the pump s design minimizes dead volume, reducing the risk of gas entrapment and improving overall vacuum efficiency. Whether used in research laboratories, industrial process chambers, or specialized manufacturing equipment, the Chatham FAA-6146 Tube Plate Getter delivers unmatched performance, reliability, and longevity, making it a trusted choice for professionals demanding the highest standards in vacuum technology.
### Pros and Cons of buying a Chatham FAA-6146 Tube Plate Getter
#### **Pros:**1. **High Efficiency in Pumping Gases** The Chatham FAA-6146 is designed as a getter pump, which excels at removing residual gases from vacuum systems, particularly reactive gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and water vapor. This makes it ideal for applications requiring high-purity vacuum environments, such as semiconductor manufacturing, thin-film deposition, or scientific research.
2. **Long Service Life** Getter pumps, including this model, typically have a long operational lifespan compared to mechanical pumps. The titanium or zirconium alloy used in getters can absorb large quantities of gas before saturation, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
3. **Compact and Lightweight Design** The FAA-6146 is a tube plate getter, meaning it is designed to fit within vacuum chambers or as a standalone component without requiring large auxiliary systems. This makes it suitable for applications where space is limited.
4. **Low Maintenance Requirements** Once activated (usually via heating), getter pumps operate passively without moving parts, reducing wear and tear. This translates to lower maintenance costs over time compared to mechanical pumps.
5. **Compatibility with Various Vacuum Systems** The FAA-6146 can be integrated into both low-vacuum and high-vacuum systems, making it versatile for different applications. It is often used in conjunction with turbomolecular or diffusion pumps to enhance overall vacuum performance.
6. **Cost-Effective for Specific Applications** While the initial cost may be higher than some mechanical pumps, the long-term operational savings (due to longevity and low maintenance) can make it a cost-effective choice for applications where gas absorption is critical.
7. **Chemical Stability** Getter materials like titanium or zirconium are chemically stable and do not degrade easily, ensuring consistent performance over extended periods.
---
#### **Cons:**1. **Limited to Gas Absorption Only** Getter pumps cannot handle large volumes of gas continuously like mechanical pumps (e.g., rotary vane or cryogenic pumps). They are best suited for final stages of vacuum pumping or for removing trace gases rather than primary pumping.
2. **Not Reusable After Saturation** Once the getter material is saturated with gas, it cannot be reactivated or reused. This means the entire component must be replaced, which can be costly if the pump is frequently saturated.
3. **Sensitive to Contamination** Getter pumps can be damaged by exposure to certain contaminants, such as oils, hydrocarbons, or particulate matter. If the vacuum system is not properly cleaned or maintained, the getter s performance may degrade prematurely.
4. **Activation Process Required** Getter pumps must be heated to high temperatures (typically 800 1,200 C) to activate the getter material. This requires additional equipment (e.g., a heater or furnace) and careful handling to avoid damaging the pump or the surrounding system.
5. **Slower Pumping Speed for Large Volumes** While effective for trace gases, getter pumps have relatively low pumping speeds compared to mechanical pumps. They are not suitable for rapidly evacuating large volumes of gas.
6. **Temperature Sensitivity** The performance of getter pumps can be affected by temperature fluctuations. If the system operates in environments with extreme temperature variations, the getter s efficiency may be compromised.
7. **Limited Availability of Replacements** Depending on the manufacturer and model, finding replacement getter tubes or plates (like the FAA-6146) may be difficult, especially for older or discontinued models. This could lead to extended downtime if a replacement is not readily available.
8. **Potential for Outgassing** Some getter materials may outgas or release absorbed gases when exposed to certain conditions (e.g., high temperatures or pressure changes), which could contaminate the vacuum system if not properly managed.
---
### **Conclusion:**The Chatham FAA-6146 Tube Plate Getter is a highly specialized and effective tool for applications requiring high-purity vacuum environments with minimal residual gases. Its strengths lie in its efficiency, longevity, and low maintenance requirements, making it ideal for scientific, industrial, or research applications where gas absorption is critical. However, its limitations such as non-reusability after saturation, sensitivity to contamination, and inability to handle large gas volumes must be carefully considered. It is not a replacement for primary pumping but rather a complementary component in vacuum systems.
### **Recommendation:** Purchase the Chatham FAA-6146 Tube Plate Getter if:- You are working in an application where trace gas removal is essential (e.g., semiconductor fabrication, thin-film deposition, or high-vacuum research).
- Your vacuum system already includes a primary pump (e.g., turbomolecular or diffusion pump) to handle the bulk of the gas evacuation.
- You can accommodate the activation process and ensure the system is free from contaminants that could degrade the getter s performance.
- You are prepared for the eventual replacement of the getter once it becomes saturated, as this is a one-time-use component in most cases.
Avoid purchasing the FAA-6146 if:- You require a primary pumping solution for large volumes of gas (consider a mechanical or cryogenic pump instead).
- Your vacuum system lacks proper contamination control measures, as this could shorten the getter s lifespan.
- You are on a tight budget and cannot justify the long-term benefits of a getter pump, as the initial cost may be higher than alternative solutions for your specific needs.
For optimal results, pair the FAA-6146 with a reliable primary pump and ensure proper system maintenance to maximize its efficiency and lifespan.
Constructed with black plates and a bottom getter. Up for sale is 1 Chatham Electronics FAA-6146 Tube. Tested on our calibrated TV-7 at 60 where 35 is the minimum.