Quadrupole mass spectrometry is used extensively in the electronics sector to assess the functionality of surface materials and the performance of thin film structures. The surface interface characteristics of these materials are integral in optimizing the macrostructural properties of an optoelectronic device. Topographical defects in the glass coating of an organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cell could impact the light-attenuation capabilities of junctions in the electronic structure, for example. Small variations in an optical coating could cause light to reflect rather than propagate through the substrate and be converted into electricity.
How to analyze the top nano layers of a material is a key question for manufacturers of electronic devices as their functionalities continue to grow more complex. Novel solar cells comprised of multi-junction nanocrystals are already beginning to display enhanced solar energy conversion over conventional p-n junction silicon OPVs. However, these
This is a re-post of an article authored by Dr. Doug Baker of Teledyne Hastings Instruments, posted November 2, 2020.
Thermal Mass Flow Instruments
Thermal mass flow instruments provide an easy way to quickly and accurately measure gas flow. And in some cases, a mass flow instrument may be calibrated for one gas, but then you may want to use the instrument in another gas. This article will discuss how to use GCFs (Gas Conversion Factors) when using flow instruments with different gases.
Before we get into GCFs, let’s quickly review the operation of an electronic thermal mass flow sensor. Below is a diagram of the Teledyne Hastings 200 Series flow sensor. Gas flows through a capillary tube which is heated in the middle to a temperature of approximately 130°C. Two thermocouples, one upstream (TC-1) and one downstream (TC-2), measure the temperature. The temperature difference between the two thermocouples
If you use or specify high vacuum components, then you are probably very familiar with some or all of these terms: ANSI, CF, ISO, KF, LF, NW, QF ... they have become part of our vernacular; but what do they mean and how are they used?
Here is a quick overview with basic descriptions:
ANSI
ANSI: American National Standards Institute. These are 150 pound series flanges commonly made to fit tubes ranging from 1.5” to 12” OD. One flange will contain a machined o-ring groove and the other is smooth, and the seal is made by compressing the two flanges together with bolts. ANSI took over this standard from ASA (American Steamfitters Association). ASA/ANSI flanges have been largely displaced by ISO-LF flanges. See below descriptions for ISO and LF.
CF
CF: ConFlat® which is a trade-mark of Varian Vacuum (now owned by Agilent). This is a flange system
