Vacuum Techniques in the Atomic Energy Industry

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Abstract
Vacuum techniques are used in two distinct fields: (1) applications where a vacuum is required as an essential part of the process, and (2) applications in which vacuum techniques are merely used to ensure the tightness of plant (which may not finally be required to operate under high-vacuum conditions). Advances in vacuum technology have made the construction and testing of plant to vacuum standards a relatively simple matter. Examples are given showing how vacuum techniques are used in the uranium 235 diffusion plant, in plant handling liquid metals at high temperature, in experimental work for pressurized water reactors, and in the testing of the Calder Hall heat exchangers. The success of vacuum techniques in large-scale applications depends on three factors: correct design of plant, the availability of simple and reliable testing methods, and on efficient managerial control of construction and test work. Basic design rules are given and illustrated by examples of flanges, valves, and other components used in the applications mentioned above. Vacuum testing methods are discussed. The charcoal-Pirani technique of testing is favoured for most applications; tests can be carried out on components before they are degassed and ‘clean’; equipment and operation are simple. The management of vacuum work is discussed and a method of quality control by means of binomial distribution charts is described which has been useful in improving systematically the vacuum tightness of manufactured components.

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