Vacuum technology for TVAC testing in space qualification

The space sector faces an era of great opportunity with predictions forecasting the number of objects launched into space to exceed 2,600 per annum, and revenue as high as $1.8 Trillion by 2035.

However, these opportunities are far from risk-free. Space represents one of the harshest environments known, with threats such as:

Vibrational shock during launch
Geomagnetic storms
Extreme temperature variances
Long-term exposure to radiation

Testing of all components and hardware before deployment in space not only ensures the readiness of mission-critical equipment but is central in demonstrating compliance as well as achieving required certifications status.

With the support of the wide array of vacuum equipment in our portfolio: we can help you mitigate the risks and obtain regulatory certification such as NASA GSFC-STD-7000 and NASA-STD-7012A. 

Medium shot of technicians cheering in the mission control room

Small satellite and component testing

When planning a new project one must consider many aspects such as:

The deployed technology: does it match the objectives, remit and scientific principles of the test?
The vacuum hardware: is it reliable and suitably robust for use in space?
The vacuum system: is it compatible with existing infrastructure?
Is it accurate and does it come with the precise levels of performance
Does it come with advanced data capture?
Long-term cost of ownership as well as efficient energy consumption

Combining best-in-class technology and technical support is key to bring your space projects closer to mission success.

Choosing the right pump for space qualification testing

Primary pumps
High and Ultra-high pumps
Leak detection in vacuum chambers
TVAC (Thermal Vacuum Chamber) testing systems

These oil-free ‘dry’ vacuum pumps are ideal for the clean hydrocarbon-free environments critical to space testing. They span pressure ranges from atmospheric to 10^-2 mbar

Pump types include:

mXDS, nXDS, xDS dry scroll pumps
EDS, GXS dry screw pumps
For larger chambers: nXRi multistage roots pumps

mXDS3 and mXDS3s dry scroll pumps

GXS Dry Screw Vacuum Pumps

nXRi dry multistage roots pumps

High Vacuum pumps are deployed when pressure ranges between 10^-2 and up to 10^-11 mbar are required. 

Our extensive range of nEXT turbomolecular pumps deliver pumping speeds up to 1,230 l/s. We also have magnetically levitated (MagLev) versions when you need vibration and particulate-free performance: the nEXT M range. 

If you process requires Ultra High vacuum levels: our solutions include

NEG (Getter) Pumps
TSP Titanium sublimation pumps: the TiTan Ion Pumps
As well as the HyTan NEG-Ion Pump

nEXT Turbomolecular Pumps

nEXT M Turbomolecular Pumps

UHV pumps

Leak detection is crucial in all aspects of space qualification testing.

ELD500 helium leak detectors: for fast, repeatable and accurate leak detection. Fully mobile with an easy to use control interface.
GasCheck G4 handheld gas leak detectors: perfect for identifying leaks in installations, welds, joints and more.

On top of our core vacuum solutions: our controllers, gauges, residual gas analyzers, hardware & fittings are available to complement your infrastructure deployment. 

ELD500 leak detector

GasCheck G4 leak detector

We design, build and supply a range of thermal vacuum systems covering all principal space tolerance testing protocols.

Standard TVAC Systems: built with turnkey functionality for smaller scale/routine testing, they generally have shorter lead-times.
Tailormade TVAC Systems: with the support of our in-house experts we will co-engineer with you to match your requirements.

The role of thermal vacuum systems in space qualification testing

Thermal vacuum testing with thermal Vacuum Chambers (TVAC)

Commonly used to test the durability of satellites, spacecraft and components. TVAC chambers simulate the vacuum of space and allow for the testing of objects under extreme temperatures to verify that systems will operate as intended once in orbit.

Thruster Testing Systems

Designed to test the performance and efficiency of propulsion systems, often using ion thrusters.

Vacuum bakeout and Degassing Systems

Remove volatile compounds and materials that could interfere with sensitive instruments when in space.

Total Mass Loss (TML) Testing

Measure the TML and outgassing of materials exposed to the vacuum of space and elevated temperatures over long periods of time. 

Space hardware qualification: let us support you!

We have been developing vacuum solutions for the scientific community for over 100 years.

Our equipment supports a wide range of applications from high-energy physics to medical research, materials-science or quantum computing research. 

Thanks to our in-house experts and supporting tools for the design and calculation of your new system: your project is in safe hands.
We partner with you from consultation to planning, to full deployment and ongoing support.