The National Measurement System Policy Unit (NMSPU), which is part of the DTI, commissioned Sira to conduct a survey relating to vacuum metrology in industrial processes
The National Measurement System Policy Unit (NMSPU), which is part of the DTI, commissioned Sira to conduct a survey relating to vacuum metrology in industrial processes.
The objective of the survey was to investigate the criticality and financial value of good vacuum metrology to industrial processes, with a particular emphasis on surface coating processes.
Previous studies had indicated that in the majority of vacuum plants, operators do not appreciate the potential magnitude of pressure uncertainty. Assumptions are usually made that it is line with the 'accuracy' claims made by equipment manufacturers and calibration organisations (which mainly relate to the performance under ideal conditions, not the working environment).
The vital question to investigate was whether it was necessary for companies carrying out vacuum coating to be able to measure the precise absolute value of pressure within the process or whether it is sufficient to be able to reproduce process conditions reliably regardless of the absolute values.
The new report from Sira contains two relevant case studies, along with summary reports of interviews with a wide cross-section of operators from vacuum-dependent processes.
Vacuum metrology is perhaps less widely understood than many other areas of measurement.
The survey covers some of the issues, which need to be understood in order to make meaningful vacuum measurements including vacuum range, measurement technology, installation, environment and calibration.
The study background, findings, and details of the project strategy and work plan can be found in detail in the survey report.
It is ideal reading for ceramics, process, coatings, semi-conductor and other industries.
Observations made during this study suggest that major aspects of process plant design including vacuum measurement instrument selection and installation, are dictated by the system supplier.
Copies of the survey can be obtained from Sira for a fee of œ25.00.
