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Engineering Vacuum Chambers - Design solutions and tips to getting the most from your vacuum chamber.

Vacuum chambers have been built in nearly every shape and size. Designs vary from simple to "What were they thinking?" However, it is possible to design and build superior chambers for less cost, by considering the following:

Controlling deflection
If deflections are controlled, then a chamber will seal reliably and last a very long time. Deflections can be controlled by selecting an intrinsically strong shape, or by using a weaker shape then adding stiffeners.

Chamber Shapes
The best shape to minimize both material and deflection is a sphere. It is also the best shape for evacuating air and maintaining cleanliness because there are no corners. The limitation to this shape is that some applications do not readily fit in it. The forming costs of the hemispheric halves can also be expensive for larger chambers.

The next best shape is a cylinder with domed ends. This is a common shape, and the rigidity is almost as good as a sphere. Box chambers, while common, offer the least rigidity.