Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
CAUTION
WARNING
1Introduction
1.1Scope and definitions
This manual provides installation, operation and maintenance instructions for the Edwards EXT255H, EXT255Hi and
EXT255HVi Compound Molecular Pumps. You must use the Pumps as specified in this manual.
The EXT Compound Molecular Pumps are designed for use with an Edwards EXC Controller. Read this manual and the
instruction manual supplied with your EXC Controller before you attempt to install or operate the equipment. The
EXC Controller contains details of how to set up a pumping system and how to control acce ssories such as an aircooler, vent-valve and bakeout band.
Important safety information in this manual is highlighted as WARNING and CAUTION instructions; you must obey
these instructions. The use of WARNINGS and CAUTIONS is defined below.
Warnings are given where failure to observe the instruction could result in injury or death to
people.
Introduction
Cautions are given where failure to observe the instruction could result in damage to the equipment, associated
equipment and process
In accordance with the recommendations of EN61010, the following warning symbols may appear on the p ump or its
accessories:
Warning - refer to accompanying documentation.
Warning - risk of electric shock.
Warning - hot surfaces.
Protective conducter terminal.
The units used throughout this manual conform to the SI international system of units of measurement. Also
throughout this manual, wherever flow rates are specified, the abbreviation 'sccm' is used to mean 'standard
cm3 min-1: this is a flow of 1 cm3 min-1 at an ambient temperature of 0 °C and a pressure of 1013 mbar
(1.013 x 105 Pa).
The EXT255H, EXT255Hi and EXT255HVi pumps are compound vacuum pumps that combine a turbomolecular pump
and a drag pump on a single shaft. Refer to Figure 1 and 2, which show the internal structures of the EXT255H and
EXT255HVi pumps.
The turbomolecular pump is made from a multi-stage axial-flow turbine which is optimised for operation in molecular
flow conditions. The drag pump is made from pumping channels formed by helical grooves. The drag pump is designed
for operation at higher pressures than conventional turbomolecular pumps.
The light alloy rotor (13) is machined from one piece to form the angled blades of the turbomolecular pump. The
rotor blades rotate between angled stator blades (12) which are supported by spacer rings (11). The rotor and stator
blades have an open structure at the pump inlet, and a more closed structure at the outlet. This configuration gives
an optimum combination of pumping sp eed and compression when pumping gases of both high and low molecular
weight. For the blades to be effective, their speed must be close to the thermal velocity of the gas. The rotor
therefore rotates at up to 60000 r min
Gas from the inlet is compressed through each of the bladed stages of the turbomolecular pump and transferred to
the drag pump. In the drag pump stages, the gas is further compres sed as it is pump ed around the cha nne ls formed
by the helical grooves.
The rotating assembly is supported at the inlet end by a frictionless magnetic bearing (3) and by a precis ion ceramic
ball bearing (8) at the outlet end. The ball bearing is lubricated from an oil reservoir and wick mechanism (9).
-1
.
All of the pumps are supplied with an inlet-screen (2) fitted in the bore of the inlet-flange. The EXT2 55Hi pumps are
also supplied with an inlet-strainer which fits in the interstage-port. The inlet-screen and inlet-s trainer p rotect the
pump against damage which would be caused by debris which enters the pump. The inlet-screen also protects you
from the sharp blades in the pump.
All of the pumps have a vent-port you can use to vent the pump and your vacuum system to atmospheric pressure.
The vent-port introduces vent gas part way up the pump rotor; this ensures maximum cleanliness. The pump is
supplied with a manual vent-valve fitted to the vent-port. As described in Section 3.4, you can replace the manual
vent-valve with a TAV5 or TAV6 solenoid-operated vent-valve (available as an accessory: see Section 7).
All of the pumps have a purge-port (Figure 4 or 5, item 3) in the motor and bearing housing chamber. In order to
protect the bearing lubricant from the effects of high oxygen concentrations, you can introduce an inert purge gas
through the purge-port. You can fit an optional vent-port adaptor and purge restrictor to the purge-port to control
the flow rate of the purge gas and to filter the gas supply (see Section 7).
The EXT255Hi pump has an interstage-por t, between the turbomolecular and drag pump. You can us e the interstageport to pump a separate chamber of your vacuum system or to back another turbomolecular pump. If the pump
operates with an outlet pressure of less than 5 mbar (500 Pa) and an interstage inlet flow of less than 70 sccm
(1.17 mbar l s
interstage operating conditions.
The EXT255HVi pump also has an interstage-port (14). The interstage-port is located in the turbomo lecular p umping
region of the pump and, together with the higher conductance provided by the larger size interstage-port, enables
higher interstage pumping speeds than the EXT255Hi.
Electrical connection between the EXT and the EXC Controller is by a 19-way connector and a pump-to-controller
cable. The cable is a separate item and is available in a choice of lengths (see Section 7 for details). If you use an
EXC100L controller it is not necessary to buy a separate cable.
-1
, 117 Pa l s-1), the vacuum performance at the turbomolecular pump-inlet is independent of the
The pump may be cooled using air-cooled or water-cooled optional accessories. Refer to Section 3 for guidance on
applications and cooling requirements. Pumps with a Conflat flange are supplied with a water-cooler.
All EXT pumps have thermal sensors to monitor the motor and pump-body temperature.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
1.3Vent options and vent control
To maintain the cleanliness of your vacuum system, we recommend that, whenever you switch the pump off, you
vent the pump (or vacuum system) when the speed of the EXT pump is between full rotational speed and 50% of full
rotational speed. At and above 50% of full rotational speed, the rotor spins fa st enough to suppress an y backstreaming
of hydrocarbon oil from your bac king pump.
However, if you vent the pump w hen it is at full rotational speed and the rate of pressure ri se is too high, the p ump
life may be reduced. We therefore recommend that you either limit the vent rate (see Section 2.3), or only open the
vent-valve after the EXT pump speed has fallen to 50% of full rotational speed.
The rate of pressure rise cannot be controlled by the manual vent-valve, so if you use the manual vent-valve, you
must only open the vent-valve after the EXT pump speed has fallen to 50% of f u ll rotational speed.
If you use a TAV5 vent-valve, but you cannot limit the rate of pressure rise, you must only open the vent-valve after
the speed of the EXT pump has fallen to 50% of full rotational speed. If you use the EXC Controller to control your
TAV5 vent-valve, configure the EXC Controller to select this option: refer to Section 3.4 for more information. The
EXC Controller is factory set to vent when the EXT pump is at 50% of full rotational speed after you select Stop.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
Page 13
B753-03-880 Issue F
CAUTION
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
2Technical data
2.1General
PerformanceSee Table 1
DimensionsSee Figure 4 and 5
Maximum inlet-flange temperature100 °C
Maximum magnetic field3.5 mT Horizontal field >7mT Vertical field
Installation categoryEN61010 part 1, Category 1
Pollution degreeCAN/CSA, UL, EN61010 part 1
Altitude2000 m
Humidity10 to 90% non condensing
Electrical supply80 V d.c.
Equipment typeFixed equipment, for indoor use only
2.2Pumping media
Technical data
Vent dangerous gases and gas mixtures safely. Do not expose people to these gases.
Do not use EXT pumps to pump explosive gas mixtures as the pumps are not suitable for this
purpose.
On EXT255Hi and EXT255HVi pumps, gas pumped through the interstage-port will mix with gas
pumped through the pump-inlet. Ensure that the gases will not react or combine to form dangerous
gases and substances.
Do not use an EXT to pump gases containing more than 20% oxygen unless the pump is gas purged. If you do, the
lubricant will polymerise and the pump will fail prematurely.
Note:Note that concentrations of gases may be modified by the compression of the pump.
2.2.1Pumps without gas purge
The pumps are designed to pump the following residual gases normally used in high-vacuum systems:
z Airz Carbon monoxidez Neonz Ethanez Methane
z Nitrogenz Kryptonz Argonz Propane
z Carbon dioxidez Heliumz Hydrogenz Butane
You can use the pumps to pump oxygen and water vapour, subject to the following conditions:
z OxygenThe oxygen concentration must be less than 20% by volume.
z Water vapourYou must ensure that vapour does not condense inside the pump; refer to Section 3.7.3.
If you wish to pump a gas not in the list above, co ntact your supplier for advice. If you do not contact your supplier,
you may invalidate the warranty on the pump. The pumps are not suitable for pumping aggressive or corrosive gases.
2.2.2Pumps with gas purge
When purged with an inert gas, the pumps can be used to pump oxygen in concentrations above 20% by volume.
2.3Vent gas specification and vent control data
Although the pump may be vented to atmospheric air, high relative humidity of the air may greatly increase the
subsequent pump-down time. To reduce pump-down times you should vent the pump with dry, clean gases.
Vent gasDry air, nitrogen, argon or other inert gases
Maximum dew point at atmospheric pressure- 22 °C
Maximum size of particulates1
Maximum concentration of oil0.1 parts per million
Time for rotational speed to reach 50%>15 sec
Rate of pressure risesee Figure 3
µm
2.4Purge gas specification
Purge gasDry nitrogen, argon or other inert gases
Maximum dew point at atmospheric pressure-22 °C
Maximum size of particulates1
Maximum concentration of oil0.1 parts per million
Allowable purge gas flow (when required)20 to 100 sccm (0.33 to 1.67 mbar l s
Recommended purge gas flow25 sccm (0.42 mbar l s
Maximum allowable purge gas supply pressure 2 bar (gauge) ; 29 psig, 3 x 10
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
Figure 3 - Maximum allowed rise in backing pressure against time for controlled venting:
system pressure (mbar/Pa) against time (s)
Technical data
2.5Cooling-water
The following cooling water specification corresponds to a typical high-quality drinking water specification. Check
with your water supply authority if you are in doubt about the quality of your supply.
QualityMechanically clean and optically clear with no deposits or turbidity.
pH value6.0 to 8.0
Maximum calcium carbonate concentration75 parts per million
Maximum chloride concentration100 parts per million
Minimum oxygen concentration4 parts per million
Minimum water-cooling flo w rate (at 15 °C) 15 l h
Water temperatureSee Table 1
Maximum water pressure5 bar (gauge), 73.5 psig, 6 x 105 Pa
Materials exposed to cooling waterNickel plated brass
ParameterEXT255HEXT255HiEXT255HViNotes
Mass
DN100ISO-K inlet flange5.6 kg5.6 kg6.5 kg
DN100CF inlet flange8.2 kgN/AN/A
Inlet-flangeDN100ISO-K/
DN100CF
Outlet-flangeDN25NWDN25NWDN25NW
Vent-port1/8 inch BSP1/8 inch BSP1/8 inch BSP
Interstage-port-DN25NWDN40NW
Purge-flangeDN10NW
Noise level (at 1 metre)< 50 dB(A)< 50 dB(A)< 50 dB(A)
Recommended controllerEXC120EXC120EXC120
EXC120 maximum VA input250 VA250 VA250 VAwith bakeout band
Quiescent power25W25W25W
†††
Recommended backing pump
*
Not supplied - pump supplied with port blanked.
†
Pb = backing pressure, Qi = flow through the interstage-port (EXT255Hi/EXT255HVi only), Qp = flow through
pump-inlet.
‡
Pumping speeds are without inlet-screen or inlet-strainer (EXT255Hi/EXT255HVi only). Inlet-screens and
inlet-strainers reduce speed by approximat ely 10%.
**
Ultimate pressure 48 hours after bakeout with Pb < 1 x 10-2 mbar (1 Pa).
††
Ultimate pressure 48 hours after bakeout with Pb < 5 mbar (500 Pa).
‡‡
Inlet pressure has risen to 1 x 10-3 mbar (1 x 10-1 Pa).
***
Above this pressure, rotational speed drops below nominal.
†††
A larger backing pump may be required for maximum throughput.
RV3RV3RV3
Technical data
2.6Materials exposed to gases pumped
The following materials and component types are exposed to the gases pumped: aluminium alloys, stainless steels,
fluoroelastomer and nitrile 'O' rings, hydrocarbon lubricant, felt, rare earth magnets, silicon nitride, phenolic resin
and carbon-fibre reinforced epoxy resin.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
WARNING
3Installation
Safely route all vacuum, vent/purge gas and cooling-water pipelines, and all electrical cables and
wires, so that people cannot trip over them.
3.1Unpack and inspect
The pump is packed to prevent damage in transit. Take care when you unpack the pump to avoid excessive shocks
which could damage the bearings and reduce the life of the pump. The pump is supplied with the inlet and outlet
sealed to prevent entry of dust and vapour. Do not remove these seals until you are ready to install the pump on your
vacuum system.
Remove all packing materials and check the pump. If the pump is damaged, notify your supplier and the carrier in
writing within three days; state the Item Number of the pump together with your order number and your supplier's
invoice number. Retain all packing materials for inspection. Do not use the pump if it is damaged.
Check that your package contains the items listed in Table 2. If any of these items is missing, notify your supplie r in
writing within three days.
Installation
Table 2 - Checklist of items
QuantityDescriptionCheck (9)
1EXT turbomolecular pump
1Inlet seal (trapped 'O' ring, Co-Seal or copper compression gasket)
1Inlet-strainer (EXT255Hi only, fitted in the interstage-port)
1Interstage seal (EXH255HVi only, fitted in the interstage-port)
If the pump is not to be used immediately, store the pump in suitable conditions as described in Section 6.1.
Do not discard the packing materials; retain them to repack the pump when you return it for service.
3.2T ypical installation
A typical pumping system with an EXT255H pump is shown in Figure 6. A typical pumping system with an EXT2 55Hi or
EXT255HVi pump is shown in Figure 7. When necessary, purge the EXT pump with inert gas as described in Section 3.5.
The accessories available for these EXT pumps are detailed in Section 7; the accessories are shown in Figure 9.
Install the pump in the vacuum system before you connect the EXC Controller. This will ensure that
the pump cannot operate and injure people during installation.
3.3.1Inlet screen
Do not remove the inlet-screen unless you can be sure that there is no danger that debris can fall into the pump. In
order to avoid the danger of injury from the rotor blades, do not remove the inlet-screen until you are ready to mount
the pump onto your system. If the screen is removed, the pumping speed will increase by approximately 10%.
To remove the inlet-screen carefully extract it from the inlet-flange using a bent wire hook. To replace a screen
which has been removed, install it as shown in Figure 8, with the Edwards logo uppermost. Ensure that the dimples
on the rim of the screen engage in the groove in the pump flange. If necessary, gently bend the tabs of the screen
outwards to ensure a tight fit.
Figure 8 - Correct installation of the inlet-screen
3.3.2Mechanical fixing
Do not operate the EXT pump until it is securely fixed. If the pump seizes, the stored energy of the
rotor can cause rapid movement of the pump, which may cause damage and injury to people.
There are two ways in which the EXT pump can be securely fixed. Ideally, the EXT pump should be securely fixed by
its inlet-flange to a rigid, firmly fixed vacuum system: see Section 3.3.4. If this is not possible because of the nature
of the vacuum system, the base of the EXT pump must be securely fixed to a firm support: see Section 3.3.3.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
3.3.3Base mounting
Ensure that the base of the pump is securely fixed to a firm support (refer to Figure 4 and 5 for the fixing hole
details). If the pump supports the weight of the vacuum system, the mass of the vacuum system must be no m ore
than 20 kg.
You must also ensure that your mounting method meets the following requirements, so that the EXT pump will remain
secure in the event of a pump seizure:
z The support mounting must be able to withstand a destructive torque of 620 Nm.
z Fit cap-head fixing screws through the tapped fixing-holes in the base of the pump (see Figure 4 and 5): use
M5 screws.
z The fixing screws must comply with ISO 898-1, with a strength class of 12.9 (nominal tensile strength
1200 MPa).
z The fixing screw engagement length must be 6 mm or more.
z Tighten the fixing screws to a torque of 12 Nm (1.22 kgf m).
3.3.4Inlet connection and orientation
Installation
The EXT pump can be fixed to the vacuum system by the inlet-flange. The pump can be mounted in any attitude from
vertical and upright through to horizontal (±2°). If the pump is mounted horizontally and you use a rotary vane pump
to back the EXT pump, the backing port must point vertically downwards (±20°) to reduce the risk of contamination
from the backing pump oil.
Make sure that the pump-inlet and all components fitted to the p ump-inlet are clean and dust-free. If the pump-inle t
is not kept clean, the pump-down time may be increased.
The inlet-connection of the EXT pump is a CF flange or an ISO flange:
z If the pump has a CF flange, use the copper compression gasket supplied with the pump and use a full
complement of bolts to connect the inlet-flange of the pump to the vacuum system.
z If the pump has an ISO flange, use the Edwards trapped ‘O’ ring supplied with the pump and use a minimum
of four claw clamps to connect the inlet-flange of the pump to the vacuum system. Ensure that each claw
clamp is tightened to a torque of 10 Nm or more.
Alternatively, use a rotatable collar and the trapped ‘O’ ring supplied with the pump to connect the inlet-flange
of the pump to the vacuum system; use a full complement of bolts with the rotatable collar.
Ensure that no torque or other forces are transmitted to the pump from the vacuum system or the associated
pipelines.
If necessary, fit an inlet vibration isolator between the pump-inlet and the vacuum system: refer to Section 7.4.9 for
the Item Numbers, and refer to the instruction manual s upplied with the vibration isolator for installation details. If
you fit a vibration isolator, you must securely fix the base of the EXT pump as described in Section 3.3.3.
Note:The first time you pump down the syst em to vacuum , you must re-tighten the bolts which se cure the inlet-
Use suitable vacuum tubing and connectors to connect the NW flange of the backing-port to your backing-pump. If
necessary, use flexible pipe or bellows to reduce the transmission of vibration from the backing-pump to the EXT
pump.
We recommend that you use an Edwards RV backing-pump. The backing-pump can also be controlled by the EXC
Controller (EXC120 EXC300). The minimum size of the backing-pump required is given in Table 1. You may have to
use a larger backing-pump if you run the pump at a high inlet pressure or high throughput, or if you purge the pump
with more than 25 sccm (0.42 mbar l s-1, 42 Pa l s-1) of purge gas. The EXT255H is also suitable for use with diaphragm
backing-pumps although the effect of high backing pressure on the pump’s performance and cooling requirements
should be noted (see Table 1 and Section 3.7).
-4
Do not use the EXT pump with a backing pressure below 5 x 10
increase the evaporation rate of the lubricating oil and so will reduce the life of the bearings.
The EXT255HVi pump is supplied with an interstage-port seal, and the EXT255Hi pump is supplied with a combined
inlet-strainer/interstage-port seal; leave the inlet-strainer in the interstage-port, unless you are sure that debris
cannot be drawn into the interstage-port.
Use the seal supplied and suitable vacuum tube and connectors to connect the interstage-port to your vacuum system
or to the outlet flange of another turbomolecular pump (if you use the EXT255Hi or EXT255HVi pump to back another
turbomolecular pump).
mbar (5 x 10-2 Pa). Lower backing pressures will
3.4Vent-valve connection and control
When you design your system and when you install a vent-valve, take note of the information in Section 1.3 and 2.3.
You can vent the EXT pump and your vacuum system by any of the following methods:
z Use the manual vent-valve supplied. Take care not to open the manual vent-valve too quickly.
z Use a TAV5 or TAV6 solenoid vent-valve accessory (see Section 7) in place of the manual vent-valve.
z Use a TAV5 or TAV6 solenoid vent-valve connected to a convenient flange on your vacuum system.
z Use an alternative valve connected to your vacuum system.
If you use the manual vent-valve, you must open the vent-valve only after the EXT pump speed has fallen to 50% of
full rotational speed.
Do not vent from the backing line. If you vent into your vacuum system, select a point upstream of the pump, to
prevent oil backstreaming from the backing line.
If you use the TAV5 or TAV6 vent-valve we recommend that you control it from the EXC controller.
Table 3 gives an indication of the appropriate orifice size to be fitted to the vent valve for given vacuum system
volumes in order that the vent rate is kept within the limits given in Section 2.3.
Table 3 - Vent-restrictor orifice diameter (with atmospheric pressure at the inlet of the vent-valve)
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B753-03-880 Issue F
CAUTION
3.5Purge gas connection
3.5.1Connect the purge gas
If you want to supply a purge gas to the pump, fit a vent port adaptor (see Section 7.4.7) in place of the blank plug
(Figure 4 or 5, item 3). Connect your gas supply to the purge port.
You must limit the flow rate of the purge gas to the allowed range, also specified in Section 2.4. To limit the flow
rate, use a flow controller or a pressure regulator and calibrated flow restrictor. The PRX10 purge restrictor accessory
(see Section 7.3) is suitable for this purpose. Adjust the PRX10 as described in the instru ction manual sup plied with
the accessory.
3.5.2Recommended purge gas flow
The recommended purge gas flow for typical applications is 25 sccm (0.42 mbar l s-1, 42 Pa l s-1). This flow will protect
the pump when you pump oxygen in concentrations above 20% by volume.
3.6Electrical installation
Always make the electrical connections to the EXT pump after the pump has been installed on your vacuum system.
Installation
The EXT pump should be electrically bonded to earth (ground) using the connection provided (Figure 4 or 5, item 8).
The EXC Controller provides the electrical supply to the EXT pump through the multiway pump-to-controller cable.
Connect and lock the bayonet-connectors at the ends of the cable to the mating connectors on the pump and the EXC
Controller.
The EXC Controller is designed to allow a pumping system to be configured in a variety of ways, from a basic
manually-operated system to a fully automatic system with remote control. Refer to the instruction manual supplied
with the EXC Controller to complete the electrical installation.
3.7Cooling
3.7.1Introduction
You must cool the pump by forced-air or water-cooling to prevent damage to the bearing lubricant.
We recommend that wherever possible, you cool the pump by forced-air or water-cooling.
You must use water-cooling in any of the following operating conditions:
z Backing pressure >10 mbar (1000 Pa).
z Backing pressure > 8 mbar (800 Pa) and interstage flow > 30 sccm (0.5 mbar l s
z Backing pressure > 5 mbar (500 Pa) and interstage flow > 80 sccm (1.3 mbar l s
-1
, 50 Pa l s-1).
-1
, 130 Pa l s-1).
z Ambient temperature > 35 °C.
z When you use a bakeout band.
In all other operating conditions, you can use forced-air cooling. If you use forced-air to cool the pump, you must
ensure that there is an adequate supply of cooling-air to the pump.
During operation, if the temperature of any surface of the pump is higher than 50 °C, the pump is too hot and you
must increase the cooling.
An air-cooler accessory is available for the EXT pumps (refer to Section 7). Fit the air-cooler as described in the
instruction manual supplied with it. If you wish to use an alternative fan for ai r-cooling, ensure that the flow rate is
above 70 m3 h-1 (40 cfm)
3.7.3Water-cooling
A water-cooler accessory is available for the EXT pumps (refer to Section 7.3.4). Fit the water-cooler as described in
the instruction manual supplied with it.
The cooling-water supply must comply with the specification given in Section 2.5. Pipes in the water-cooling circuit
may become blocked if the cooling-water contains too much calcium carbonate or if it contains particulates which
are too large. Corrosion of the water-cooling circuit may occur if there is too little calcium carbonate and oxygen in
the water. Good quality drinking water is usually suitable for water-cooling. If in doubt, you must check the quality
of your cooling-water supply and, if necessary, provide treatment and filtration.
Connect the cooling-water supply to the water-cooler on the pump as described below. Either of the two riffled
connectors on the water-cooler can be used for the water supply or return connections.
1. Push reinforced hose (approximately 6 mm internal diameter) over the ends of the riffled hose connectors on
the water-cooler on the pump.
2. Attach the hose with strong hose clips and make sure that they are tightened securely.
Alternatively, unscrew the riffled hose connectors and remove them from the water-cooler and make direct
connections to the 1/8 BSP female threaded fittings on the water-cooler.
You must turn off the cooling-water supply when you switch off the pump to prevent condensation of vapours inside
the pump. The EXC Controller (EXC120 and EXC300) can operate a solenoid-valve for this purpose.
If you want to remove the pump for maintenance, and you do not want to break the cooling-water circuit, unscrew
the two M4 cap-head fixing-screws and remove the water-cooler from the pump. Make sure that there is a layer of
thermal contact grease on the water-cooler before you refit it to the pump.
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Page 29
4Operation
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
Do not disconnect the pump-to-controller cable when the EXT pump is operating. If you do, there
may be a risk of injury or death by electric shock.
Do not operate the pump unless it is connected to your vacuum system. If you do, the pump rotor
can cause injury. The pump rotor rotates at very high speeds and you may not be able to see that
the pump is rotating.
Do not expose any part of your body to vacuum. If you do, you may be injured.
4.1Start-up
B753-03-880 Issue F
Operation
Use the procedure below to start up a basic, manually-controlled pumping system with a manual vent-valve and an
end user version EXC Controller (for example, EXC120 or EXC300). Refer to the EXC instruction manual where the
backing pump and accessories are automatically controlled by the EXC Controller.
1. Turn the manual vent-valve clockwise to close it.
2. Turn on the cooling-water supply (if water-cooling is used).
3. Start the backing-pump.
4. When the vacuum system pressure is approximately 10 mbar (1 x 10
the EXC Controller to start the EXT pump.
5. The pump will then accelerate to full operating speed. The pump rotational speed is shown by the LED speed
indicator on the front panel of the EXC Controller.
Note:The first time you pump down the syst em to vacuum , you must re-tighten the bolts which se cure the inlet-
flange: refer to Section 3.3.4.
3
Pa) or less, press the Start/Stop button on
4.2Stand-by
You can press the Standby button on the EXC Controller to operate the EXT pump at reduced rotational spee d. Select
Standby before or after Start-up, for any of the following reasons:
z To extend pump-bearing life and still maintain adequate vacuum pumping performance (for example, when
you leave a system under vacuum over holiday periods).
z To increase system pressure or to extend the maximum inlet pressure range of the pump where this suits a
Note:In an emergency only, open the vent-valve quickly to decelerate the pump rotor in the shortest possible
time.
Use the procedure below to shut down a basic, manually-controlled pumping system with a manual vent-valve and
an end user version EXC Controller (for example, EXC120 or EXC300). Refer to th e EXC Controller instruction man ual
where the backing-pump and accessories are automatically controlled by the EXC Controller.
1. Close the valve in the backing-line connecting the EXT pump to the backing-pump.
2. Switch off the backing-pump.
3. Press the Start/Stop button on the EXC Controller to switch off the EXT pump.
4. When the EXT pump rotational speed has fallen to below 50% of full rotational speed, turn the manual vent-
valve anticlockwise to open it. Ensure that the rate of pressure rise does not exceed the allowed rate of
pressure rise, otherwise you can damage the pump: refer to Section 1.3 and 2.3.
5. If water-cooling is in use, turn off the cooling-water supply.
4.4Safety interlocks and control system
The pump protection and safety interlock features are listed below. Refer to the instruction manual supplied with
the EXC Controller for a full descri ption of these features (note that refe rences to LEDs an d buttons do not apply to
OEM versions of the EXC controller):
z The EXC Controller monitors the temperature of the EXT pump and the electrical power consumption of the
pump. If the EXC Controller detects excessive power consumption or temperature, the rotational speed of
the pump motor is reduced until the power and temperature return to normal
z If the rotational speed is reduced to 50% of nominal speed, then the pump is stopped immediately (or after a
user defined time delay) and the Fail LED on the EXC Controller lights
z If pump rotational overspeed is detected by the EXC Controller, the pump is stopped immediately and the
FAIL LED on the EXC Controller lights.
If the Fail LED lights, switch off the backing-pump immediately and vent the EXT pump. Once the EXT pump has
stopped, rectify the cause of the failure (refer to Section 5.5), press the EXC Controller Start/Stop button to reset
the Fail condition, and restart the EXT pump. If the pump is ho t, allow sufficient time for it to cool before you restart
it.
4.5Bakeout
When you bake the EXT pump to above 70 °C at the inlet-flange, you must cool the pump by water-cooling, to
prevent damage to the bearing lubricant.
If you heat your EXT pump (and your vacuum system), you will speed up the degassing process so that the pu mp will
reach ultimate vacuum in the shortest possible time. If y ou heat the pump, this will also prevent condensation of
vapours inside the pump.
You can use the Edwards BX bakeout band to heat the pump (refer to Section 7). Fit the band around the pump, just
below the inlet-flange. When you bake the pump or the system, make sure that the temperature of the inlet-flange
does not exceed 100 °C.
If you bake your vacuum system and the temperature of the system exceeds 200 °C, you must put a radiation shield
between the system and the EXT pump. This radiation shield will reduce the heat radiated onto the pump rotor.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
Typically, a bakeout of four hours is long enough to remove water condensation from the pump. However, the
bakeout time will depend on the amount of condensation in the pump and the vacuum system, and the ultimate
pressure you want to achieve.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
CAUTION
WARNING
WARNING
5Maintenance
Allow the pump-rotor to stop, then disconnect the EXC Controller before you remove the pump
from your vacuum system for maintenance or fault-finding procedures.
5.1Introduction
The maintenance operations for the EXT Turbomolecular pumps are described in t he following sections. The ISX inletscreen, the WCX water-cooler, the inlet-strainer, interstage-port seal and inlet-flange seals are available as spares
(refer to Section 7). Fit the ISX inlet-screen as described in Section 3.3.1. Fit the WCX water-cooler as described in
Section 3.7.2.
5.2Bearing life
When supplied, the pump contains sufficient lubricant to supply the bearings for life. No routine maintenance is
therefore required between bearing replacements. The bearings are not user-serviceable. The bearings will need to
be replaced when they reach the end of their service life. This is typically more than 20,000 hours, but may be less;
this depends on the type of pumping duty on which the pump is used.
Maintenance
When the bearings need replacement, we recommend that you exchange your pump for a factory reconditioned
replacement. Alternatively, you can send your pump to an Edwards Service Centre to have the bearings replaced.
When you return EXT pumps to Edwards Service Centres please use the procedure included at the end of this manual.
However, the instruction to drain all fluids does not apply to the lubricant in the EXT pump oil-reservoirs.
5.3Rotor life
The life of the EXT pump rotor is typically 40,000 to 50,000 cycles (of acceleration to full speed, and then
deceleration to a stop). The pump rotor is not user-serviceable.
We therefore recommend that you exchange your pump for a factory reconditioned replacement every 20,000 cycles,
or 10 years of use, whichever occurs first. Alternatively, you can send your pump to an Edwards Service Centre for a
major service (which will include rotor replacement).
When you return EXT pumps to Edwards Service Centres please obey the procedure included at the end of this
manual. However, the instruction to drain all fluids does not apply to the lubricant in the EXT pump oil-reservoirs.
5.4Clean the pump
Clean the external surfaces of the EXT pump in a well-ventilated location. When you use cleaning
solutions and solvents to clean the pump, observe all precautions specified by the manufacturer.
Avoid inhalation of any particulates which may be present in the pump.
Do not attempt to clean any parts of the EXT pump other than the external surfaces. Organic solvents may
damage internal pump components. Do not use abrasive materials to clean any part of the pump.
If the inside of the EXT pump is contaminated, it may not be possible to achieve the specified ultimate vacuum, or
pump-down time may increase. In these circumstances, you should return the pump to an Edwards Service Centre,
where the pump will be dismantled and cleaned. Use the procedure given in the forms at the end of this manual to
return the pump.
You can use any organic solvent to clean the external surfaces of the EXT pump. We recommend that you use non CFC solvents, such as isopropanol or ethanol. Use a cleaning solution which is suitable for the contaminants on the
pump surfaces.
For environmental reasons, keep wastage of cleaning solutions and solvents to a minimum.
5.5Fault finding
Refer to Table 4 for the possible causes of faults and for the recommended actions to rectify faults. Table 4 is
applicable to a basic, manually controlled pumping system with an EXC Controller configured for local (manual)
operation.
Note that if you use an EXDC Pump Drive Module to control the EXT pump, or if you use an EXC Controller configured
for remote operation to control the EXT pump, some of the checks and actions in Table 4 may not apply to your
system.
Refer to the fault finding section of the instruction manual supplied with your EXDC Pump Drive Module or EXC
Controller for further fault finding information.
Table 4 - Fault finding
SymptomCheckAction
The pump does not rotate. After
pressing start - Fail LED not lit.
The EXC Controller trips into Fail - at
any speed.
Is the EXC Controller power LED lit?If not, check that the electrical
supply is on, check that the switch at
the rear of the EXC Controller is on,
check the fuse in the rear of the EXC
Controller.
If all of the above are OK then the
EXC Controller is faulty. Consult
Edwards or your supplier.
Is the EXC Controller Start/Stop LED
flashing?
Is the EXC Controller first speed
indication LED lit?
Are the system interlocks correctly
connected?
If so, check that the correct links are
made on the EXC Controller logic
interface (refer to the instruction
manual supplied with the EXC
Controller).
Check that any system interlocks are
correctly made (refer to the
instruction manual supplied with the
EXC Controller).
Check that the pump-to-controller
cable is connected.
If you have made all of the above
checks and cannot identify the cause
of the fault, consult Edwards or your
supplier.
If not, the EXC Controller is faulty. If
lit, then the EXT pump is faulty.
Consult Edwards or your supplier.
Ensure that the system interlocks do
not open after the EXT pump has
started.
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Page 35
Table 4 - Fault finding (continued)
SymptomCheckAction
The EXC Controller trips into Fail
during the ramp-up and before 50%
speed is reached.
The EXC Controller trips into Fail
after 50% speed has been reached the first two speed LEDs are lit.
The EXC Controller trips into Fail all the speed LEDs are lit.
Is the inlet pressure too high? Is the
backing pressure too high?
Is the EXT pump running too hot?Increase the cooling-water flow or
Does the rotor rotate freely?If not, the EXT pump-bearings are
Is the timer set incorrectly?Increase the timer setting (refer to
Is the pressure too high?If so, reduce the pumping load or
Is the EXT pump running too hot?Increase the cooling-water flow or
Does the EXT pump rotor rotate
freely?
-Consult Edwards or your supplier.
If so, reduce the pumping load, or
check for a gross leak into the
system.
decrease the water temperature or
do both. You may need to change
from air-cooling to water-cooling.
(Refer to Section 2 for maximum
inlet pressure and cooling
requirements). Check that external
heat sources (such as system bakeout
heaters) are not excessive.
damaged. Consult Edwards or your
supplier.
the instruction manual supplied with
the EXC Controller). If the EXC
Controller still trips into Fail consult
Edwards or your supplier.
check for a gross leak into the
system.
If the high gas load is temporary,
configure the EXC Controller to delay
the Fail trip on 50% speed and set an
appropriate delay time (refer to the
instruction manual supplied with the
EXC Controller).
decrease the water temperature or
do both. You may need to change
from air-cooling to water-cooling.
If not, the EXT pump-bearings are
damaged. Consult Edwards or your
supplier.
The EXT is very noisy or there is
excessive vibration or both.
None of the above.-Consult Edwards or your supplier.
Is the pressure limited by water
vapour ?
Are any of the vacuum gauges
contaminated ?
Is the pumping speed insufficient
(due to poor conductance between
the pump and the gauge or too large
a chamber) ?
Is the interstage inlet pressure
> 0.2 mbar (20 Pa) ?
Is the backing pressure < 12 mbar
(1200 Pa)?
Is the high-vacuum area of the
system contaminated ?
Check the rest of your system for
leaks and contamination.
Remove the pump from the system
and test the ultimate pressure o f the
pump alone (see Section 2 for
specification).
Is the pump rotational speed the
same as the resonant frequency of
the attached system ?
Is the vibration being transmitted
from the rotary pump ?
Is the noise irregular and getting
progressively worse ?
Is the EXT making a constant highpitched noise ?
Bake the system and pump.
If so, clean or replace them.
Increase the conductance or reduce
the volume.
If the interstage inlet pressure is too
high, inlet pressure at the
turbomolecular inlet is reduced;
ensure that the interstage inlet
pressure is < 0.2 mbar (20 Pa).
Check for backing line leaks. If the
backing pressure is too high, you may
need a larger backing-pump.
If so, clean the high-vacuum system.
If found, clean the contaminated
areas and repair the leaks.
If poor, check the pump for
contamination and if necessary
return the pump as described in
Section 5.4. Leak-check the pump. If
the leak rate > 1 x 10
(1 x 10-5 Pa l s-1), consult Edwards or
your supplier.
If so, change the natural frequency
of your system or isolate the pump
using flexible bellows.
If so, fit flexible bellows or a
vibration isolator in the backing line.
If so, a bearing is defective. Consult
Edwards or your supplier.
If so, the rotor is out of balance.
Consult Edwards or your supplier.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
WARNING
6Storage and disposal
6.1Storage
Use the following procedure to store the pump.
1. Place protective covers over the inlet, outlet, interstage (EXT255Hi/EXT255HVi only), purge and vent ports.
2. Place the pump in its packing materials. For fastest pump-down when the pump is put back into service, seal the
pump inside a plastic bag together with a suitable desiccant.
3. Store the pump in cool, dry conditions until required for use. When required, prepare and install the pump as
described in Section 3.
4. Keep the pump upright at all times to prevent the drainage of oil from the bearing reservoir.
5. Avoid long-term storage if possible. When long-term storage is necessary, the pump should be set up and run for
at least eight hours every six months.
6.2Disposal
Storage and disposal
In the unlikely event that the rotor fails, dust may be generated from the carbon fibre reinforced
components in the pump. If the rotor has failed:
z Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, a dust-proof mask which
covers the nose and mouth, an apron or overalls, and saf ety glasses or goggles) when you
handle the pump.
z Ensure that the pump inlet, outlet, and vent-, interstage- and purge-ports are all blanked
off/sealed before you dispose of the EXT pump.
Dispose of the EXT Turbomolecular Pump and any comp onents and accessories safely in accordance with all local and
national safety and environmental requirements.
Take particular care with any components which have been contaminated with dangerous process substances.
Take appropriate action to avoid inhalation of any particulates which may be present in the pump.
Do not incinerate the pump. The pump contains phenolic and fluorosilicone materials which can decompose to very
dangerous substances when heated to high temperatures.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
7Service, spares and accessories
7.1Introduction
Edwards products, spares and accessories are available from Edwards companies in Belgium, Brazil, China, France,
Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Singapore, United Kingdom, USA and a world-wide network of distributors. The
majority of these employ service engineers who have undergone comprehensive Edwards training courses.
Order spare parts and accessories from your nearest Edwards company o r dist ri but or. When you order, p lease state
for each part required:
z Model and Item Number of your equipment
z Serial number (if any)
z Item Number and description of the part
7.2Service
Edwards products are supported by a world-wide network of Edwards Service Centres. Each Service Centre offers a
wide range of options including: equipment decontamination; service exchange; repair; rebuild and testing to factory
specifications. Equipment which has been serviced, repaired or rebuilt is returned with a full warranty.
Service, spares and accessories
Your local Service Centre can also provide Edwards engineers to support on-site maintenance, service or repair of
your equipment.
For more information about service options, contact your nearest Service Centre or other Edwards company.
7.3Spares
7.3.1ISX inlet-screen
An inlet-screen is fitted to your pump as supplied to prevent damage from the entry of debris into the pump. The
Item Numbers of replacement inlet-screens are given below. Select the inlet-screen according to the pump inletflange size.
Flange sizeInlet-screenItem Number
DN100ISO-K/DN100CFISX100B580-51-001
7.3.2Inlet-strainer (EXT255Hi pump only)
The EXT255Hi pump is supplied with an inlet-strainer for the interstage-port. The Item Number of a replacement
inlet-strainer is given below.
The EXT255HVi pump is supplied with a fluoroelastomer 'O' ring seal for the interstage-port. The Item Number of a
replacement interstage-port seal is given below.
Interstage-port sizeItem Number
DN40NWC105-16-395
7.3.4WCX water-cooler
A water-cooler can be fitted to the EXT pump. Please refer to Section 3 to check the suitability of water cooling for
a particular application. Pumps with a Conflat flange are supplied with a water-cooler.
Water-coolerItem Number
WCX500 B580-61-001
7.3.5Inlet-flange seals
EXT pumps are supplied with an inlet seal. The Item Numbers of replacement seals are given below.
The accessories available for use with the EXT turbomolecular pumps are described in the following Sections. Figure 9
shows how the accessories are fitted to an EXT pump.
7.4.2EXC controller
The Edwards EXC Controllers provide the facilities necessary for operating a pumping system based on an EXT255H,
EXT255Hi or EXT255HVi pump. The Item Numbers of the EXC Controllers are given below.
ControllerVoltageItem Number
EXC100E90 - 264 V a.c.D396-20-000
EXC100L90 - 264 V a.c.D396-22-000
EXC12090 - 264 V a.c.D396-16-000
EXC30090 - 132/180 - 264 V a.c.D396-14-000
7.4.3Pump-to-controller cable
You must fit a pump-to-controller cable between an EXC Controller and the EXT pump. A cable is not supplied with
the EXT Pump or the EXC Controller (except EXC100L). The following cables are available:
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
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B753-03-880 Issue F
7.4.4EXDC drive modules
Fit an EXDC Drive Module as an alternative to an EXC Controller and pump-to-controller cable.
Drive ModuleItem Number
EXDC80D396-40-000
EXDC160D396-41-000
7.4.5BX bakeout band
A BX bakeout band accelerates the degassing of the pump to enable it to achieve lower pressures. It may also be used
to protect the pump from condensation of contaminants. The bakeout bands are available in 110-120 V or 220-240 V
versions and may be powered from a rear panel socket on the EXC Controller.
PumpBakeout band Item Number
EXT255H/HiBX250 (110 V)B580-52-041
BX250 (240 V)B580-52-061
7.4.6FL20K foreline trap
Service, spares and accessories
The foreline trap minimises oil vapour backstream ing from the backing pump and is recommended where the highest
system cleanliness is required.
Edwards and the Edwards logo are trademarks of Edwards Limited.
Page 43
B753-03-880 Issue F
7.4.7TAV vent-valve and vent-port adaptor
Two solenoid-operated vent-valves are available for system venting. The valves are 24 V d.c., normally-open, and
can be driven automatically from the EXC Controller. The solenoid-valve is fitted in place of the manual-valve, or
alternatively can be fitted with an adaptor (supplied with th e valve) and be used with any suitable NW10 flanged port
on your vacuum system.
The vent-port adaptor allows the vent-port or the purge-port to be used with any suitable NW10 fittin g: see Figure 9,
item 8 and item 11.
ProductItem Number
TAV5 vent-valveB580-66-010
TAV6 vent-valveB580-66-020
NW10-1/8 inch BSP male adaptorB580-66-011
7.4.8ACX air-cooler
An ACX air-cooler can be fitted to the EXT pump. However, please refer to Section 3 to check the suitability of aircooling in a particular application.
PumpAir-coolerItem Number
EXT255H/HiACX250HB580-53-160
Service, spares and accessories
7.4.9Vibration isolators
In applications where the small amount of vibration generated by the turbomolecular pump is a problem, a vibration
isolator can be fitted. The isolator consists of two special flanges separated by a flexible bellows and a rubber, antivibration, outer collar. The isolator required depends on the pump inlet-flange size.
Inlet-flange size Item Number
DN100ISO-KB580-20-000
7.4.10PRX purge-restrictor
A modified DN10NW centring-ring is available to filter the purge gas and restrict its flow rate to the recommended
flow of 25 sccm. The restrictor is suitable for all EXT pumps fitted with a purge-po rt.
Purge-restrictorFlange sizeItem Number
PRX10 NW10B580-65-001
7.4.11VRX vent-restrictor
Use a VRX fixed orifice ve nt-restrictor to restrict th e flow of vent gas into the EXT pump. Refer to Section 3.4 for
information on the selection of the correct VRX vent-restrictor.