Quorum - Model PP3005 SEMCool -Non-Airlock Cooling System for SEM and FIB/SEM

• Temperature range down to -190°C
• Off-column cooling with all-day runtime between fills
• Independent cooling of cold stage and cold trap
• Upgrade path to PP3006 CoolLok
• Extended warranty option

Cold stage and cold trap

A highly stable and thermally isolated nitrogen gas-cooled cold stage attaches to the SEM stage. The location and shape of the cold trap is tailored to suit the internal geometry of the SEM. Both cold stage and cold trap are capable of reaching temperatures down to -190°C.  For easy specimen exchange an interlocked LED chamber light is fitted.

The cold stage connects to the SEM stage using an adaptor and has a dovetail fitting to accept a cryo specimen holder. When not in use the cold stage is uncoupled and stored within the chamber with the gas and electrical fittings connected.

Cooling dewar, trolley and controller

The cold stage and cold trap are cooled by a floor-mounted, vacuum isolated 30 litre dewar and heat exchanger assembly which at normal operating temperatures can run for up to 24 hours between fills. The gas lines between the dewar and the SEM interface are vacuum isolated for maximum thermal efficiency.

The cooling dewar is located on a floor-mounted trolley which also houses the temperature and gas control system.

Using the SEMCool

The SEM (or FIB/SEM) is vented and the specimen/specimen holder is manually located on the cold stage. The microscope is pumped down and the SEMCool cooled to the required working temperature. To exchange specimen warm the cold stage to above 0°C and vent the SEM.

The PP3005 is only recommended for applications where infrequent exchanges of specimens is expected. For greater specimen throughput an airlock into the SEM or FIB/SEM is essential. For these applications please see: PP3006 CoolLok and PP3010 Cryo Preparation System.

Pumping requirements