PP3004 QuickLok Airlock/Transfer System

Ambient temperature airlock for SEM, FIB/SEM, beamline and vacuum platforms

Quick Overview

The QuickLok provides a rapid way of transferring ambient temperature specimens into SEM, FIB/SEM or other suitable vacuum systems. A key feature of the QuickLok is the ability to vacuum transfer specimens that are sensitive to normal environmental conditions. The transfer device uses a sealed vacuum chamber which can be interfaced to a glove box for inert gas transfer or allow vacuum transfer from a wide range of platforms.

Key Features

• Rapid specimen exchange
• Vacuum and inert gas transfer
• Field-retrofittable to most systems
• Upgrade path to CoolLok
• Custom designed holders available
• 3 year warranty

Components

Mounted onto a suitable vacuum chamber port, the QuickLok consists of a loading chamber body with integrated controls for pumping, venting and transfer. A custom-designed interface flange and connections to the pumping system are included (see Pumping below).

The compact vacuum transfer device has an easy-release bayonet fitting to a dovetail-profile specimen holder (shuttle). Standard shuttles are included, but optional holders allow a range of specimen types to be handled.

Inside the microscope is a stage to accept the specimen shuttle. To aid specimen exchange an interlocked LED chamber light is mounted to the inside of the QuickLok interface.

Use

The specimen is mounted on a suitable holder and the transfer device fitted onto the QuickLok. The airlock and transfer device are then evacuated to a pre-set vacuum and the gate valve opened. The specimen is then guided onto the microscope stage.

For transfer from other vacuum systems, or a glove box, additional interface flanges are available on request.

Pumping

The QuickLok requires either a rotary pump or oil-free vacuum turbomolecular pumping station (see Options).

Accessory

CHE3010 Rapid Warming Tower

This device is meant to facilitate a rapid warming of the CHE3010 (Cryo-Heat Exchanger) associated with the PP3010 Cryo-SEM preparation system. The Rapid Warming Tower in conjunction with a 1 liter/min Nitrogen gas flow rate dramatically reduces the lag time before the SEM or Prep chamber components return to room temperature so venting can occur. A process that normally takes hours can be completed in minutes, allowing maintenance or reconfiguring the SEM back to room temperature operation. Accepts many common, locally obtained hair dryers. (Hair Dryer not included).

Specifications