Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Advanced Vacuum Technology
Module Code	PS511
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Teacher	Paul Swift
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	10
Pre-requisite	PS508
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module aims to provide a detailed knowledge of the principles of vacuum pump operation and vacuum design so as to enable the student to make an informed decision on pump and vacuum system specifications.

Learning Outcomes

1. State the sources of gas load in a vacuum chamber and describe how a vacuum is maintained.
2. Explain the operation of vacuum pumps used to produce a ultra-high vacuum and be able to discuss their advantages/disadvantages.
3. Design a vacuum system subject to its critical contraints.
4. Apply physical principles to written numerical problems.
5. Communicate their ideas with their colleagues.

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Independent learning	150	No Description
Assignment	20	One written assignment.
Total Workload: 170

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Surface Preparation.
Permeation, surface migration, outgassing, pressure limitations. Ultra High Vacuum Techniques, Ultra High Vacuum Pumps: titanium sublimation, sputter ion, non evaporable getter pumps, Advanced Pressure Measurement: Residual gas analysers - including operating principles, interpretation of data, sources of error, Vacuum Maintenance: preventive maintenance, leaks and leak detection.Vacuum Calibration: absolute and subsidiary standards - accuracy and lifetime. Vacuum Standards: component dimensions..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	45%	Examination Weight	55%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Computerised test/exam	Five bi-weekly quizzes	15%	Every Second Week
Performance evaluation	On-line discussions	10%	Every Week
Essay	One of two assignments	10%	Week 7
Essay	Second of two written assignments	10%	Sem 1 End

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 3

Indicative Reading List

Other Resources

None

Array

Programme or List of Programmes

MPV

MSc in Plasma and Vacuum Technology

SMPP

Single Module Programme (Plasma)

Timetable this semester: Timetable for PS511

Date of Last Revision

05-FEB-10