RF & Microwave Vacuum Feedthroughs (UHV Coaxial, High-Frequency)

Hermetic coaxial interfaces for stable high-frequency transmission across HV/UHV vacuum boundaries.

• Best for: RF cavities, monitoring ports, microwave diagnostics, vacuum RF test stands
• Common interfaces: SMA, 2.92 mm (K), N-type, BNC
• Customization: frequency band, VSWR/insertion loss target, CW/pulsed power, flange

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UHV coaxial feedthroughs provide controlled-impedance signal transmission across vacuum boundaries for accelerator RF systems and research instrumentation. They are used where stable impedance, low loss, and bakeout compatibility are required.

Overview

RF & microwave vacuum feedthroughs are hermetic interfaces designed to transmit high-frequency electrical signals across vacuum boundaries while maintaining HV/UHV integrity. They are widely used in particle accelerators, RF cavities, beam diagnostics, and laboratory vacuum systems where signal stability and low loss are critical.

These feedthroughs support standard coaxial connector interfaces and can be customized to meet specific frequency, power, flange, and bakeout requirements.

What Is an RF & Microwave Vacuum Feedthrough?

An RF & microwave vacuum feedthrough provides a controlled-impedance signal path between atmosphere and vacuum through a ceramic-to-metal hermetic seal. It enables reliable RF transmission without compromising vacuum performance.

Why RF Feedthrough Design Matters in Vacuum

• Impedance transitions at ceramic–metal interfaces
• Reflections and VSWR stability across the operating band
• Thermal and mechanical stress during bakeout
• Grounding and shielding continuity in UHV environments
• Long-term reliability under repeated thermal cycles

Supported Interfaces & Frequency Range

Connector Standards

• SMA
• 2.92 mm (K-connector)
• N-type
• BNC
• Custom coaxial geometries

Frequency & Operation

• Frequency range: DC to microwave bands (GHz range)
• Operation modes: Continuous wave (CW) / Pulsed RF

Typical Applications

• RF cavities and couplers
• Beam diagnostics and RF pickup systems
• Microwave diagnostics in accelerators
• SSA and klystron interfaces
• Vacuum RF test stands and calibration setups

Engineering Specification Checklist

• Flange type (CF / KF / custom)
• Target vacuum level (HV / UHV) and bakeout temperature
• Connector standard and channel count
• Frequency range and RF performance targets (VSWR, insertion loss)
• Power level (CW or pulsed)
• Mechanical constraints or drawings (if available)

FAQ

Which RF connector should I choose for a vacuum feedthrough?
Selection depends on frequency range, power level, and RF performance requirements. SMA and 2.92 mm are common for higher frequencies, while N-type and BNC are often used for lower-frequency monitoring and diagnostics.

Can RF & microwave vacuum feedthroughs be used in UHV systems?
Yes. RF and microwave feedthroughs can be designed for UHV environments with ceramic-to-metal hermetic sealing and materials compatible with high-temperature bakeout.

What is the difference between an RF feedthrough and a microwave window?
RF feedthroughs are typically used for signal transmission, diagnostics, and low-to-moderate RF power with controlled impedance. Microwave windows are primarily used for high-power RF injection and isolation between vacuum and atmosphere.