Does New Focus offer vacuum-compatible Picomotors?
Yes, we do offer vacuum-compatible versions (“-V”) of the Model 830X. They are rated to 10-6 Torr, and use a special low-voltage piezoelectric transducer so you won’t have to worry about arcing, even at low partial pressures in gases such as helium. These Picomotors come with short Teflon-coated wires that let you make connections to your vacuum-chamber feedthrough and to your driver. They are built with vacuum-compatible grease rated to <10-6 Torr, and all high-outgassing components are removed or replaced. The vacuum-compatible components are also handled differently from the standard Picomotors to eliminate hand oils and other contaminants that may outgas. Note: because the Tiny Picomotor requires the use of an RTV (silicon-based adhesive) as an integral part of the motor assembly, we cannot offer vacuum-compatible versions of these motors. RTV has a high rate of outgassing and is not recommended for vacuum use.
