Module: Advanced Vacuum Technology

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

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Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	Advanced Vacuum Technology
Module Code	PS511 (ITS) / PHY1071 (Banner)
Faculty	Science & Health	School	Physical Sciences
Module Co-ordinator	-
Module Teachers	-
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	10
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

None
Repeat and deferred examinations can be undertaken at the next normal scheduled examination.

Description

This module aims to provide a detailed knowledge of the principles of vacuum pump operation and vacuum design so as to enable the student to make an informed decision on pump and vacuum system specifications.

Learning Outcomes

1. State the sources of gas load in a vacuum chamber and describe how a vacuum is maintained.
2. Explain the operation of vacuum pumps used to produce a ultra-high vacuum and be able to discuss their advantages/disadvantages.
3. Design a vacuum system subject to its critical contraints.
4. Apply physical principles to written numerical problems.
5. Communicate their ideas with their colleagues.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Independent Study	150	No Description
Assignment Completion	20	One written assignment.
Total Workload: 170

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Surface Preparation
Permeation, surface migration, outgassing, pressure limitations. Ultra High Vacuum Techniques, Ultra High Vacuum Pumps: titanium sublimation, sputter ion, non evaporable getter pumps, Advanced Pressure Measurement: Residual gas analysers - including operating principles, interpretation of data, sources of error, Vacuum Maintenance: preventive maintenance, leaks and leak detection.Vacuum Calibration: absolute and subsidiary standards - accuracy and lifetime. Vacuum Standards: component dimensions.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	0%	Examination Weight	0%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown
Loop Exam	Five bi-weekly quizzes	15%	Every Second Week
Performance evaluation	On-line discussions	10%	Every Week
Essay	One of two assignments	10%	Week 7
Essay	Second of two written assignments	10%	Sem 1 End

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories: Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module. Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module. Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
This module is category -

Indicative Reading List

Other Resources

None