Closed-loop cryogenic vacuum system for remote applications

A compact automated cryogenic vacuum pumping system configured in three modules for easy portability and featuring self-regeneration and remote-control capabilities is described. In addition to providing fast, clean pumping of gases in the range of 10-3 torr to 10-10 torr, the system has a self-contained buffer vacuum spool piece where experiments can be performed, or the system can be connected to any vacuum chamber. The vacuum chamber does not require vacuum gauging to operate the system, even from a remote location. A similar cryo-pumping system which allows remote-sensing operation of cryo pumps at distances of up to 2000 feet is currently being developed at SRO in coordination with LLNL scientists and engineers