BLOG ARTICLE
Modular. Configurable. Capable. Edwards New Experimental Vacuum System
NORTH AMERICA | 1 August 2025 | 5 min
At Edwards, innovation doesn’t stop at high-performance vacuum pumps, it extends into the environments where future scientists, engineers, and technologies are developed. That’s why we’re proud to introduce our new Experimental Vacuum System, a modular, fully configurable vacuum system designed for high and ultra-high vacuum applications in research, training, and advanced testing.
Built for flexibility and performance, the Edwards Experimental Vacuum System vacuum system supports a wide range of user applications, from university labs teaching vacuum science to R&D teams simulating real-world process conditions. Whether you're developing new technologies, conducting component testing, or preparing students for careers in vacuum-intensive industries, our platform is intelligently designed to meet your specific requirements.
Tailored to Your Needs
The Edwards Experimental Vacuum System platform features a robust, mobile frame housing a stainless steel vacuum chamber, your choice of rotary vane or scroll backing pumps, turbopump, pressure gauges, and a customizable control cabinet. It’s built for adaptability, where users can choose from a variety of chamber sizes, pump types, flange ports, gauges, and accessories to create a system that matches their specific application.
Optional add-ons include bakeout heaters, internal shelving, viewports with LED lighting, and integration with RGAs and capture pumps such as NEG, TSP, and ion getter pumps. All systems are built-to-order and tested to ensure reliability from day one.
Automation, Simplified
One of the standout features of our Experimental Vacuum System is its fully automated control option, powered by a Beckhoff PLC and a 7” HMI touchscreen. Users can operate the system locally or remotely through a Windows Remote Desktop interface.
The automated controller includes five pre-programmed pumpdown “recipes,” allowing repeatable transitions from atmospheric to high vacuum using various pump paths. Each recipe is governed by its own state machine, and all necessary safety interlocks, such as pressure and valve checks - remain active, even in manual mode.
Key interface screens include:
- Machine Overview – Full system visualization and control switching
- Alarms – Active alarms, emergency stops, and alarm history
- Recipes – Pre-set sequences with editable logic
- Service – Maintenance interface for authorized Edwards personnel
Designed for Discovery
Whether you’re simulating conditions for space hardware, studying thin film deposition, or teaching vacuum fundamentals, the Edwards Experimental Vacuum System gives users a real-world experience on a manageable, safe scale. Its compact design and industrial-grade components make it ideal for education, R&D, and pilot-scale testing alike.
Common applications include:
- Research labs (plasma, materials science, thin films)
- University & technical instruction
- Component and subsystem testing
- Space simulation demonstrations
- Small-batch process development
Backed by Edwards
The Edwards Experimental Vacuum System platform reflects Edwards’ commitment to delivering more than just products, we deliver complete system solutions. With decades of experience in vacuum technology and a global support network, we’re here to help you configure, install, and support your experimental vacuum system from concept to operation.
Interested in learning more about our new Experimental Vacuum Systems, click the link to download the brochure: DOWNLOAD HERE
Looking for a Custom Vacuum System?
Our Edwards Experimental Vacuum System is just one way we support innovation in vacuum science and engineering. At Edwards, we offer a full range of vacuum system solutions, from standardized, plug-and-play platforms to fully engineered turnkey builds.
Whether you're launching a new project or upgrading an existing installation, our experts work with you to design a system tailored to your facility, process, and performance requirements.
To help guide your planning, download our System Design Questionnaire—a helpful tool to ensure we capture the key parameters necessary to build the right solution for you.
Key Questions to Consider Before Requesting a Quote:
- What sort of process are you running?
- What base pressure and pumpdown time are required?
- What gases are involved, and at what flow rates?
- Are there temperature control needs—heating, cooling, or both?
- What level of automation or process control is desired?
- Are there space, power, or mobility constraints?