Nor-Cal RS User Manual

RS SERIES DIFFERENTIALLY

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or 530-842-4457

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1967 So. Oregon

Yreka, CA 96097 USA

Nor-Cal Products, Inc.

PUMPED ROTARY PLATFORMS

Version 1.3

Congratulations! You have purchased a precision vacuum rotation device from Nor-Cal Products. This unit is capable of many years of use

with minimal care and maintenance. This manual is a tool to aid you in obtaining this service. We at Nor-Cal encourage your comments and
suggestions on this product and its manual.

Product Description

The RS SERIES of differentially pumped rotating seals, supplied by Nor-Cal Products, are ultra high vacuum compatible devices. When

properly installed and pumped, systems have achieved base pressures of less than 2 x 10 -(11) Torr. They may be used in any vacuum
system where rotational motion is desired.

CONSTRUCTION

The metal components exposed to vacuum are type 304 stainless steel. There are two pumping chambers, isolated by three spring-loaded
Teflon-graphite seals. The chambers are pumped through the 1.33” mini-ConFlat type flanged ports. The internal sealing surfaces are
specially prepared by a proprietary manufacturing process.

Linear and lateral alignments are maintained by a series of special bearing assemblies. The bearings are made of hardened carbon steel.

WARNING..... These bearings will corrode. Do not allow moisture to condense on or in the unit. Do not allow LN2 to chill the

unit. If the internal probe is a cryogenic unit, consider mounting heating units to protect the seal. Whenever the unit is exposed
to moisture, it must be dis-assembled, cleaned and relubricated

LEAKS/PRESSURE BURSTS

THIS DEVICE IS A CONTROLLED LEAK. When properly installed and with suitable differential pumping, RS seals will show an effective
leak rate of between 1 x 10-9 and 8 x 10-9 std. cc He/sec., depending upon model. Pressure bursts will be observed as it is rotated. This is
normal. When correctly pumping on both pumping ports, the typical observed pressure burst will be 0.5 to 1.0 decade, with a system
base pressure of 2 x 10 -(10) Torr. Typical system base pressure recovery times range from 15 to 50 seconds, depending upon system
pump speed. The recovery time may vary depending upon system condition and pumps used.

A correctly installed and pumped platform will not indicate a leak when bag checked for 30 seconds with He, with a mass spectrograph
leak detector with a leak sensitivity to 5 x 10-10 std. cc /sec He.

CAUTION: Please read and follow the instructions to insure the seal will provide years of service.

RECEIPT

Inspect the carton for exterior damage. If found, file the appropriate claim with the carrier.

UNPACKING

RS platforms are shipped with custom foam-in-place packing. We have found this to be the best system to provide protection for
shipment. The foam is separated approximately half way inside the crate with thin blue plastic. The unit is also double bagged in
polyethylene. This is necessary to assure no packing material or foreign matter is able to contaminate the unit in transit. We recommend
the packing box with packing be saved if possible, for equipment storage or possible future shipment.

Inspect the unit for hidden damage from shipment.

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INSTALLATION

The RS is shipped clean and ready to install. Remove the protective polyethylene bags.

Prior to shipment, the RS is leak checked. A certificate indicating the leak rate is included with the RS.

Be certain no foreign residue or particles adhere to the device or the sealing flange knife-edges. As a precaution, it is recommended the
flanges be wiped with a lint free cloth prior to installation.

******** WARNING *********

Shipping vibration can loosen screws. The user must check to verify the external screw fasteners have not backed off on the unit.

***********THIS IS IMPORTANT ************

WARNING: NEVER ALLOW THE TWO PUMPING PORTS LOCATED ON THE PERIMETER TO REMAIN UNCOVERED. This device is sensitive
to foreign matter entering the sealing system. The seal effectiveness and useful life are effected by the cleanliness of its environment.

Particles can migrate through the pumping ports, contaminating the chambers, and this can cause seal failure.

At all times, do one of the following:

1) Connect the ports to suitable pumps

2) Cover the ports with the plastic caps provided (always remove during bakeout and replace with materials that will not melt)

3) Cover with clean foil or other suitable material.

ORIENTATION and LOAD

The RS will accommodate up to a 50-lb. load in a vertical orientation. For loads greater than 50 lbs.; or inverted operation; or horizontal
cantilever operation, please consult the factory.

FASTENING/GASKETS

Install the RS on your chamber/manipulator/instrument as you would any other ConFlat flange. Use standard, 0.080” thick, flat copper
gaskets. Use the bolt sizes recommended in the following table for installation. These recommended bolt lengths are for standard thick­ness ConFlat flanges.

The holes in the RS are blind tapped holes. USING INCORRECT LENGTHS FOR INSTALLATION WILL DAMAGE THE RS ASSEMBLY. The
bolts may be supplied by you, or you may use an RS bolt set available from Thermionics.

Helicoil brand thread inserts are used to improve thread life and performance. They also allow for replacement if thread damage occurs.
Double check that your equipment has standard thickness flanges. The following bolt length tables are based on standard flange
thickness.

BOLT SIZES/LUBRICATION

You may use hex head, socket head or 12 point bolts; they should be used with washers and should be stainless steel. Use an anti-seize
lubricant to minimize the chance of galling the threads.

RS MODEL BOLT QUANTITY BOLT SIZE

RS-150 12 ea. 1/4-28 x .75

RS-250 16 ea. 5/16-24 x 1

RS-400 32 ea. 5/16-24 x 1.25

RS-600 40 ea. 5/16-24 x 1.25

RS-800 48 ea. 5/16-24 x 1.5

RS-1000 60 ea. 3/8-24 x 1.5

The instrument/manipulator/chamber to be installed on the RS may now be installed in same manner as detailed above.

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PUMP REQUIREMENTS AND ORIENTATION

PUMPING PORTS/STAGES

There are two ports for pumping the RS. They are located about the circumference and are terminated with mini (1.33”) ConFlat flanges.

The ports are etched with the labels “1st stage” and “2nd stage”. The markings are found on the mini flange perimeters. Remove the protective caps if you have
not done so already.

HOWEVER, NEVER ALLOW THE TWO PUMPING PORTS LOCATED ON THE PERIMETER TO REMAIN UNCOVERED, PARTICULATE CONTAMINATION
MAY OCCUR, CAUSING SEAL FAILURE.

PUMP TYPE AND SPEED REQUIREMENTS

Minimum pumping to meet specifications:

First stage:

Connect a roughing pump to the first stage port flange. The roughing system must have a pumping speed of 1.6 CFM or greater AT THE PORT FLANGE, and be
capable of achieving a vacuum base pressure of at least 10 microns, MEASURED AT THE PORT FLANGE. The platform should be protected from backstreaming
oil or other contaminants with suitable traps.

>1.6 CFM at < 10 microns

CONNECT A HIGH VACUUM PUMP to the SECOND STAGE PORT FLANGE. The high vacuum system must have a pumping speed of 2 l/s or
greater AT THE PORT FLANGE, and be capable of achieving a vacuum base pressure of at least 5 x 10 -(8) Torr, MEASURED AT THE RS
PUMPING PORT FLANGE.

A Nor-Cal Products RS roughing manifold kit model # RS-MFD will facilitate the assembly and roughing procedure. For information please
refer to the attached RS accessories sheet.

Care must be taken to insure that significant pump speed losses due to conductance restrictions do not occur by using long lengths of small
diameter tubing to connect suitable pumps.

Second stage: > 2 l/s at <10-6 Torr

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USING ONE PUMP STAGE ONLY

IF YOU WISH TO USE ONLY ONE PUMP STAGE, CONNECT THE PUMP TO THE 2ND STAGE PORT.

Using one pump or no pump on the RS, will cause the system base pressure to degrade and limit ultimate system base pressure. In addition, system recovery time
from the pressure burst observed during RS rotation will increase.

OPERATION

PUMPING SEQUENCE

The user has the option of roughing and then starting the high vacuum pumps for the RS, and then roughing and starting main system high vacuum pumps, or
vice versa.

In our experience, we have found it easier to achieve crossover pressures in the main system if the RS pumps are started first.

RS expected pressures:

First stage: 1 to 10 microns second stage: 10(-6) to 10(-8) Torr

ROTATION

The RS may be rotated continuously in either direction; the direction of rotation may be reversed at any time.

THIS DEVICE IS A CONTROLLED LEAK. Pressure bursts will be observed as it is rotated, this is normal. When pumping on both
pumping ports, the typical pressure burst observed, with a system base pressure of 2 x 10 -(10) Torr, will be 0.5 to 1.0 decade. Typical system
base pressure recovery times range from 15 to 50 seconds. The recovery time may vary depending upon system condition and pumps used.

TORQUE

Depending upon the size of the RS, the user may find it difficult to rotate non-fine adjust models while under vacuum. Listed below are
approximate values of required torque for rotation.

The user may find it advantageous to make a set of handles, purchase a set of handles from Nor-Cal, or upgrade to a fine adjust model by
purchasing and installing a fine adjust kit available from Nor-Cal Products.

RS-150 4 ft.-lbs.

RS-250 6 ft.-lbs.

RS-400 12 ft.-lbs.

RS-600 22 ft.-lbs.

RS-800 32 ft.-lbs.

RS-1000 more than 50 ft.-lbs

VERNIER

The vernier is a reference for location.

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BAKEOUT

Bakeout in normal fashion, but NEVER exceed 150 degrees C stage temperature during bakeout. Higher temperatures will damage the seals.
Monitor seal temperature during bakeout.

NEVER ROTATE THE SEAL DURING BAKEOUT OR WHEN IT IS ABOVE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE.

ALWAYS PUMP THE RNN THROUGH THE PORTS DURING BAKEOUT. NEVER ALLOW THE PORTS TO REMAIN UNCOVERED, PARTICULATE CONTAMINATION
MAY OCCUR, CAUSING SEAL FAILURE.

************** WARNING *************

The lubricant in this unit has been tested to 230° C. We recommend limiting the temperature of the lubricant to 200° C or less. (Remember, the RS is limited to
150° C)

The manufacturer warning states “....avoid inhalation of decomposition products formed above 300° C.” We believe this material may give off toxic

gasses at elevated temperatures. NEVER run uncontrolled bake-outs

All motors and limit switches/ position indicators must be removed during bakeout.

MAINTENANCE

No regular maintenance involving dis-assembly is required for normal operation. Occasional lubrication of the fine adjust/motor drive gear,
worm and bearings/bushings is required, depending on operational environment.

The platform main bearings are hardened carbon steel, and susceptible to corrosion. Cleaning and re-lubrication may be required from time
to time, depending on operational environment

Service requiring dis-assembly is needed if:

a: reduced sealing performance is observed
b: greater torque is required for operation
c: the unit has been exposed to high humidity or cryogenic chilling (condensing) environment

Seal wear is not normally a problem when used as designed as a positioning device. High use or continuous operation will reduce service
life of the seals.

We recommend the RS series be returned to the factory for service involving disassembly. The main reason for this policy is the sensitivity of
RS units to contamination and mechanical damage of interior components and surfaces.

These units can be successfully serviced in the field, if a clean work environment is available and adequate skill and care are used. The

equipment warranty does not cover units which, in the sole judgment of Nor-Cal Products, may have been damaged during
attempted customer repair.

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Dis-assembly:

Remove the RS from use and cap pumpout ports. Remove Vernier scale. Remove worm drive gear and motor/fine adjust unit, if mounted.
Take care to note the spacers used in mounting this equipment.

Thoroughly clean all exposed surfaces with alcohol and “LINT FREE” wipes. Move unit to a clean work area. Use a clean hood or laminar
flow work area if possible.

Remove perimeter bolts/screws from the black anodized clamp ring and remove ring.

The two flanges can now be separated. Special care needs to be taken with the bearings. The outer race is split, and bearing will dis-assem­ble easily. Protect sealing surfaces from mechanical damage at all times.

Remove and clean all interior components. Use alcohol and “LINT FREE” wipes. Inspect actual seal surfaces and seals.

Clean and re-lubricate bearings.

Re-assembly:

Replace components, taking special care to clean sealing surfaces. Install clamp ring and gently tighten ring. IMPORTANT.... Tighten using a

balanced “star” sequence. Blank off and pump on platform (< 1 Torr). Re-tighten clamp ring screws, rotating seal between screw tightening
sequences.

Test unit.

PLATFORM PERFORMANCE TESTING:

1) Install platform per specifications with mass spectrograph leak detector on the UHV volume. Bag check for 30 seconds. No leak
should be observed with a sensitivity of 5 x 10-10 std. cc He/sec.

2) Install platform on leak detector and pump on second stage to between 1 and 5 microns. Transfer 1 atm. of He into the first
pumping stage. A correctly operating platform will display a leak rate of between 1 an 8 x 10-9 std. cc He/sec, depending
on size

3) The torque required to rotate the platform under vacuum should be less than or equal to the torque values indicated on the
following table:

RS-150 4 ft.-lbs.

RS-250 6 ft.-lbs.

RS-400 6 ft.-lbs.

RS-600 22 ft.-lbs.

RS-800 32 ft.-lbs.

RS-1000 more than 50 ft.-lbs.

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Lubrication

The bearings are lubricated with Nor-Cal GHT high temperature lubricant. The user may need to add more lubricant from time to time, depending on the
frequency and temperature of bakeouts and operating environment.

The seals have a temperature limit of 150° C. (See “BAKEOUT” section). This lubricant has a temperature limit of 200° C.

************** WARNING *************

This lubricant has been tested to 230° C. We recommend limiting the temperature of the lubricant to 200° C or less.

The manufacturer warning states “....avoid inhalation of decomposition products formed above 300° C.” We believe this material may give off toxic

gasses at elevated temperatures.

Do not run uncontrolled bake-outs

Motorized operation

This platform can be motorized. Retrofit kits are available for field installation. Please consult the factory for further information.

All motors and limit switches/ position indicators must be removed during bakeout.

PARTS AND FACTORY SERVICE

Replacement parts and non-warranty factory service are available on a fast turnaround basis. Please consult the factory with your specific
need. Following is a list of replacement parts and current services available.

SEAL SETS

Part # For

RSSS-150 Set of Three seals for RS-150

RSSS-250 Set of Three seals for RS-250

RSSS-400 Set of Three seals for RS-400

RSSS-600 Set of Three seals for RS-600

RSSS-800 Set of Three seals for RS-800

FINE ADJUST KITS

Part # For

RSFA 150 RS-150

RSFA 250 RS-250

RSFA 400 RS-400

RSFA 600 RS-600

RSFA 800 RS-800

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MAIN BEARINGS

Part # For

RSBS-150 Set of two bearings for RS-150

RSBS-250 Set of two bearings for RS-250

RSBS-400 Set of two (modified) bearings for RS-400

RSBS-600 Set of two (modified) bearings for RS-600

RSBS-800 Set of two (modified) bearings for RS-800

RE-SURFACE SEALING PLATES

Part # For

RSRS-150 RS-150

RSRS-250 RS-250

RSRS-400 RS-400

RSRS-600 RS-600

RSRS-800 RS-800

Consult factory for price and delivery

RS OVERHAUL

Provide necessary labor and materials to overhaul a RS differentially pumped seal.
Includes:
Disassemble and inspect
Install necessary replacement parts as required
Re-assemble and test
Price does not include:
Bearings
Seals
Re-surfacing of plates

These components/services will be provided as needed and the cost added as necessary.

Part #

RS-OV All models without fine adjust or motor drive

RSFA-OV All models with fine adjust or motor drive

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RS ACCESSORIES

RS-MFD Roughing Manifold Kit:

Allows first stage pump to evacuate second stage pump/port Includes:

Bakeable valve
Custom nipples
Flexible tube
Installation on to customers platform
Thermocouples optional
TC option, up to 2 tubes

Bolt Sets

Part # Use Qty Size

BS-150 RS-150 12 ea 1/4-28 x .75 HHC DBS-150 12 point

BS-250 RS-250 16 ea 5/16-24 x 1 HHCS DBS-250 12 point

BS-400 RS-400 32 ea 5/16-24 x 1 1/4 HHCS OBS-400 12 point

BS-600 RS-600 40 ea 5/16-24 x 1 1/4 HHCS PBS-600 12 point

BS-800 RS-800 48 ea 5/16-24 x 1 1/2 HHCS DBS-800 12 point

BS-1000 RS-1000 60 ea 3/8 24 x 1 1/2 HHCS

We at Nor-Cal Products have a large stake in your new equipment operating to your
expectations. If you experience difficulty with this unit, or any other aspect of your endeavor
where our experience might be of value, we want to hear from you. We want to be part of your
success.

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Appendix II - Limited Warranty and Intellectual Property Coverage

Products manufactured by Nor-Cal Products, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as “Nor-Cal”) are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a
period of twelve (12) months from the date of shipment from Nor-Cal to the buyer. Any modification to the product by the buyer or their agent voids this war­ranty. Liability under this warranty is expressly, limited to replacement or repair (at Nor-Cal ’s option) of defective parts. Nor-Cal may at any time discharge its
warranty as to any of it products by refunding the purchase price and taking back the products. This warranty applies only to parts manufactured, and labor
provided, by Nor-Cal under valid warranty claims received by Nor-Cal within the applicable warranty period and shall be subject to the terms and conditions
hereof. Expendable items such as tubes, heaters, sources, bellows, etc., by their nature may not function for one year; if such items fail to give reasonable service
for a reasonable period of time, as determined solely by Nor-Cal, they will be repaired or replaced by Nor-Cal at its election. All warranty replacement or repair
of parts shall be limited to equipment malfunctions which, in the sole opinion of Nor-Cal,are due or traceable to defects in original materials or workmanship.
Malfunctions caused by abuse or neglect of the equipment are expressly not covered by this warranty. Nor-Cal expressly disclaims responsibility for any loss or
damage caused by the use of its products other than in accordance with proper operating and safety procedures. Reasonable care must be taken by the user to
avoid hazards. In-warranty repaired or replacement parts are warranted only for the remaining unexpired portion of the original warranty period applicable to
the parts that have been repaired or replaced. After expiration of the applicable warranty period, the buyer shall be charged at Nor-Cal’s then current prices for
parts and labor plus transportation. Except as stated herein, Nor-Cal makes no warranty, expressed or implied (either in fact or by operation of law), statutory or
otherwise: and, except as stated herein, Nor-Cal shall have no liability for special or consequential damages of any kind or from any cause arising out of the sale,
installation, or use of any of its products. Statements made by any person, including representatives of Nor-Cal, which are inconsistent or in conflict with the
terms of this warranty shall not be binding upon Nor-Cal unless reduced to writing and approved by an officer of Nor-Cal. Merchandise may be returned at the
sole discretion of Nor-Cal Products, but not more than 60 days after shipment. A fee may be charged for restocking the item. An RMA number must be obtained
from Nor-Cal before returning any merchandise.

Intellectual Property Coverage

The products described in this manual are covered under U.S. Patents. Additional patents may be pending.

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