Introducing motion into a vacuum
Space simulation chambers serve as a test medium for spacecraft and their subsystems. Two main types exist: solar simulation chambers and thermal vacuum chambers. A consistent engineering challenge across both is the need for mechanical movement inside the vacuum. According to industry analysis, this movement may be generated by two basic mechanisms. One method uses a vacuum-tight seal on a mechanical device that moves through the vacuum wall. The other uses magnetic coupling.
The feedthrough as a clean shaft bearing
Magnetic Fluid Vacuum Rotary Feedthrough units are recognized as optimal solutions for introducing rotational motion into vacuum or differential pressure environments. In applications where reliability is the primary concern, these products have been widely adopted as clean shaft bearings. One manufacturer reports over 30 years of dedicated experience in this specialized field. The technology is gaining attention as a high-performance vacuum feedthrough option.
Supporting chamber operation and testing
Space simulation chambers often require complex internal systems. For example, to achieve the tremendous pumping speed needed for space simulation in the presence of xenon, cold panels are added to the chamber. These panels are cooled to temperatures below 50K by single stage cryocoolers. The potential for extended, full stability testing is clear. A small cryo panel of 600mm in diameter has a pumping speed of 16,000 l/s inside the chamber. This operational complexity inside the vacuum creates a demand for reliable motion introduction, which is where rotary feedthroughs are applied.
Design considerations for simulation
The dimensions of space simulation chambers with solar simulators are determined by solar simulator optical geometry, motion simulation requirements, and the size of the test article. This directly influences the specifications for feedthrough placement and performance. The feedthrough must function reliably in these demanding environments to support the chamber's primary goal: simulating the conditions of space for validation and testing. This focus on long-term, trouble-free operation in a critical test setting defines the selection criteria for many engineers.
We develop and supply tri-axial ferrofluid feedthroughs designed for these challenging vacuum applications.