1. Vacuum Conditions in Space Simulation Systems
Space simulation chambers are designed to reproduce near-space environments for:
- Satellite component testing
- Thermal vacuum (TVAC) tests
- Outgassing and contamination evaluation
These systems typically combine:
- Cryogenic cooling
- Radiation simulation
- High and ultra-high vacuum
Typical vacuum requirements:
- Pump-down phase:
10⁵ Pa → 10⁻¹ Pa - Test environment:
10⁻⁴ → 10⁻⁶ Torr
Stable vacuum measurement in this range is essential for test validity and repeatability.
2. Why Cold Cathode Gauges Are a Practical Choice
Cold cathode vacuum gauges are commonly used in space simulation because they:
- Operate reliably in clean, oil-free vacuum systems
- Tolerate long-duration operation without filament degradation
- Provide stable readings for vacuum trend monitoring
Their robustness makes them suitable for long test cycles lasting days or weeks.
3. Measurement Purpose: Trend vs Absolute Accuracy
In environmental testing, the primary concern is often:
- Has the required vacuum level been reached?
- Is the vacuum stable throughout the test duration?
Cold cathode gauges excel at:
- Monitoring pressure stability
- Detecting leaks or outgassing events
They are not intended for high-precision absolute pressure metrology.
4. System Integration in Test Chambers
Installation position:
- Main chamber wall
- Vacuum manifold near cryopump or turbopump
Interfaces:
- Vacuum: KF25
- Electrical: RJ45
- Output: Analog voltage or RS232
Control system usage:
- Data logging
- Alarm thresholds
- Test condition validation
5. Long-Term Operation & Maintenance
Cold cathode gauges support long-duration testing but require awareness of:
- Possible electrode contamination over time
- Periodic cleaning if reading drift becomes noticeable
Maintenance is typically infrequent in clean aerospace testing environments.
6. Application Boundaries
Cold cathode gauges may not be suitable if:
- Ultra-high vacuum below 10⁻⁷ Torr must be measured precisely
- Gas composition varies significantly without correction factors
For such cases, hybrid measurement systems are often adopted.
What’s more?
Check our VG-SM225 Cold Cathode Vacuum Gauge
Check another application: Cold Cathode Vacuum Gauge for Thin Film & Coating Systems
Check another application: Cold Cathode Vacuum Gauge for Vacuum Furnaces & Heat Treatment Systems
Or
Check our VG-SP205 Pirani Vacuum Gauge