月: 2023年7月

What Is a Mechanical Booster Pump?

A mechanical booster pump is used to increase the capacity of an existing pump. It can dramatically increase the pumping speed.

Combined with a roughing pump such as an oil rotary vacuum pump or dry pump, the pumping speed can be greatly increased in pressure areas where the roughing pump’s pumping speed drops.

The disadvantage, however, is that backflow may occur. This is something to be aware of.

Uses of Mechanical Booster Pumps

A vacuum pump is a pump that can create a vacuum. There are a variety of products that can be manufactured by using a vacuum. They are used in a wide range of fields, including vacuum packaging, vacuum drying, vacuum distillation thin films, vacuum metallurgy, space exploration, vacuum impregnation, degassing, semiconductor processing, and low-density wind tunnel testing.

So-called roughing pumps, such as oil rotary vacuum pumps and dry pumps, do not have sufficient capacity in certain pressure regions, resulting in reduced pumping speeds. In such cases, mechanical booster pumps are used.

Principle of Mechanical Booster Pumps

The casing of a mechanical booster pump contains two gourd-shaped rotors. Each rotates in the opposite (inward) direction.

Each rotor is synchronized to create a vacuum inside at the right time. Gas drawn in from the intake side is trapped in the space between the rotor and the casing, and the rotation of the two rotors pushes the expected gas out to the exhaust side.

This type of mechanical booster pump is called a roots-type vacuum pump.

While the pumping speed decreases at a constant pressure with a roughing pump, the mechanical booster pump improves the pumping speed in the range of 10000 to 0.1 Pa.

What Is an Equipment Hatch?

A machine hatch is a specialized door for bringing large pieces of equipment into a building.

In laboratories and factories, the construction of the roof does not necessarily proceed after the equipment is brought in. In most cases, the equipment is brought in and installed after the building is completed. Therefore, a special route is necessary for equipment delivery, and a special door for access to the inside of a building or underground is called an equipment hatch.

Uses of Equipment Hatches

Equipment hatches are used only for loading and unloading equipment.

Therefore, equipment hatches are used only when a factory or research institute is being set up or when there is a major equipment renewal.

People are able to enter and exit through equipment hatches, but opening and closing them is difficult because they are usually sturdy, heavy doors.

In addition, equipment hatches to the basement are basically not accessible by stairs, but by chain blocks or winches, so it is very difficult for a person to enter and exit the basement through a machine hatch.

Principle of Equipment Hatches

Equipment hatches are designed at the same time when designing a factory or laboratory building. They are basically a part of the building.

Therefore, when constructing a factory or laboratory, it is necessary to make a list of what kind of equipment will be placed in it.

It is meaningless to build an equipment hatch if it is not possible to put the equipment into the hatch, so knowing material dimensions beforehand is important.

Similarly, the equipment hatch used to bring the equipment into the basement needs to be accurate in weight, as it is usually equipped with a special winch, chain blocks, and maintenance races for moving the equipment. If they are used in excess of their weight capacity, a major accident could occur.

Similarly, the location of the equipment hatch is also very important. If the equipment hatch is to be used as an outdoor loading door, a large space is required. If the equipment hatch is to be used as an entrance to the basement, it needs to be located in the loading corridor. However, if it is an aisle and a forklift may be used, the load capacity should be considered.

What Is a Vacuum Chuck?

Vacuum chucks are used for inspection equipment and dicing saws, with the function of adsorbing the object to be measured or processed.

The table surface can hold thin silicon wafers and other materials in a flat state by utilizing negative pressure and a porous structure.

When used in dicing saws, silicon wafers are cut in widths of 10 to 20 micrometers, so the silicon wafer suction surface must be parallel and flat.

Vacuum chucks excel in holding thin wafers without damage or deformation.

Uses of Vacuum Chucks

When used in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, vacuum chucks are mainly divided into four types according to their applications. All four types have the potential to contribute to the fields of measurement and inspection equipment.

• Adhesive tables are used for dicing saws, grinders, polishers, etc.
• Heater tables are used for bonding machines
• Spinner tables are used for dicing saws, resist coating equipment, etc.
• Plunge stages are used for die bonding machines, etc.

Principle of Vacuum Chucks

Porous materials include stainless steel grain and alumina ceramic, and body materials include titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum. These materials are used with vacuum chucks according to the application.

Ceramic porous is made of hardened alumina ceramic, and metal porous is made of hardened stainless steel powder. These materials can be produced in a variety of thicknesses to suit the application.

Ceramic porous can be colored. Darker colors such as dark blue, brown, and black are used. The darker color prevents stains from being detected and prevents reflections caused by shining light on the workpiece, ensuring a clearer image.

The general type consists of a metal body and a ceramic porous body. A groove is provided on the porous surface on the opposite side that receives the workpiece, so that negative pressure is drawn from the center of the body by placing the workpiece on it and spreading over the entire porous surface.

The porous surface has a groove on the opposite side that receives the workpiece, so that negative pressure is applied to the workpiece through the porous. If the grain of the porous is coarse, the surface of the workpiece will be uneven. The finer the grain of the porous will create a higher degree of flatness.

What Is a Bonderized Sheet?

Bonderized Sheet is a steel material officially called electrogalvanized steel sheet.

Both sides of a thin steel sheet are electroplated with zinc, and surface treatment (phosphate film treatment) is applied by electrochemical corrosion protection using manganese oxide and iron phosphate. The latter half of the bonded steel sheet has good adhesion of the coating film and excellent corrosion resistance.

The name “Bonderized Sheet” was used when it was first manufactured and sold by Nippon Steel Corporation (now Nippon Steel Corporation). It is a type of steel material designated as SECC “electrogalvanized steel sheet” by JIS.

The name “Bonderized Sheet” is used only by metalworking companies and the construction industry that use Bonderized Sheet, and not by the steel industry that supplies the material.

Uses of Bonderized Sheets

Bonderized Sheet is mainly used as a building material for hardware, furniture, and lighting fixtures used indoors. A familiar example is the back panel of a desktop computer, which is made of Bonderized Sheet. Painted ones are used for interior walls and ceilings of buildings and stations, etc. Covers for ATMs and other mechanical equipment, and the exteriors of elevators and escalators are other applications.

For outdoor use, it is sometimes used as the body of a truck, but it is used as a material with a base coat of paint, which is then further coated. There are seven standard thicknesses of Bonderized Sheet: 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.6, 2.3, and 3.2 mm. The numbers are in the middle due to the influence of the conventional inch notation.

Properties of Bonderized Sheet

As mentioned above, Bonderized Sheet is a steel material officially called electrogalvanized steel sheet. There are several different methods of applying galvanization to steel, but Bonderized Sheet uses electroplating to form a uniform zinc coating on the surface of the steel sheet.

The most important effect of galvanizing is to give the steel sheet a rust-preventive feature. Depending on the environment in which they are used, iron-based products can develop rust, which not only deteriorates their appearance but also greatly reduces their strength. Galvanizing steel provides a rust-preventive effect by covering the surface of the steel with zinc.

The anti-corrosion mechanism of zinc plating is such that if a small scratch occurs on the product, zinc will dissolve into the scratch and cover it before the steel rusts. This effect is called, for example, sacrificial corrosion protection, whereby the plating material corrodes itself before the base metal does, thereby protecting the base metal.

Another excellent property of electrogalvanization is that it not only covers the surface thinly, but also evenly over the entire surface. This is one of the reasons why Bonderized Sheet is an easy-to-use material, not only because of its beautiful appearance, but also because of the ease with which paint can be applied.

Features of Bonderized Sheet

1. Beautiful Appearance

With Bonderized Sheet, a uniform and smooth surface can be obtained, which is only possible with electrogalvanization. Bonderized Sheet is also attractive because it provides a different atmosphere from that of painted surfaces. 

2. Excellent Processability

Bonderized Sheet is suitable for bending, pressing, and drawing. Although it is not suitable for structural members due to its inferior strength, it is suitable for decorative and panel parts due to its excellent workability. 

3. Weldable

Bonderized Sheet can be welded. Generally, plated materials cannot be welded in most cases because the plating film does not melt easily. Bonderized Sheet can be joined by arc welding such as tig welding because the plating film is thin. 

4. Good Compatibility with Coating

The zinc phosphate coating applied to Bonderized Sheet is suitable as a base for painting, which improves the adhesion of the paint. In addition, even if the coating is damaged, the sacrificial corrosion protection of the zinc coating prevents rust from forming.

Other Information on Bonderized Sheet

Difference between Bonderized Sheet and SGCC
SGCC is hot-dip galvanized steel sheet, which differs from electrically plated Bonderized Sheet (SECC) in that a zinc coating is applied to the surface of the steel sheet by immersing the sheet in molten zinc.

Both Bonderized Sheet and SGCC are plated with the same zinc, but there is a difference in performance between the two due to the different plating methods. Electroplating produces a uniform, thin film, while hot dip galvanizing produces a relatively non-uniform, thick zinc film.

Since the corrosion resistance of galvanized steel depends on the thickness of the plating film, SGCC with hot-dip galvanization exhibits higher corrosion resistance than Bonderized Sheet. Because of these differences, Bonderized Sheet is generally used in situations where appearance is important, while SGCC is generally selected in situations where corrosion resistance is important.

What Is a Hologram Display?

Hologram Displays are a revolution in advanced technology for the 21st century, a technology that offers a new paradigm for visual communication.

It enables the representation of information in three dimensions, bringing depth and a three-dimensional feel that cannot be captured by conventional two-dimensional displays. Hologram Displays are the key to futuristic interaction and provide opportunities for effective presentation and engagement.

This technology contributes to innovation and competitiveness in the industry and opens the door to new business development.

Uses of Hologram Displays

Hologram Display technology is expected to be used in a variety of industries and situations due to its unique three-dimensional presentation capabilities.

1. Medical Field

In the medical field, three-dimensional displays of image data from MRI and CT scans enable more detailed diagnosis and surgical planning. In medical education, Hologram Displays may also be used to help deepen understanding of anatomy.

2. Entertainment

Increasingly, holographic displays are being used in movies, games, and music events. Especially in live concerts, holograms can be used to recreate deceased artists to create a realistic performance.

3. Actual Stores and Exhibitions

Realistic 3D models can be displayed to showcase and advertise new products to attract the attention of consumers and visitors.

Principle of Hologram Displays

Hologram Displays are gaining attention as a technology for visually conveying three-dimensional information. Typical principles and models are as follows

1. Blade Rotation Type

In this method, images are projected onto blades rotating at high speed to produce three-dimensional images. A series of images are projected onto the blades, utilizing the visual afterimage effect to produce images that appear to be floating in the air. 

2. Pepper Ghost Type

This is a classic optical illusion method which uses a transparent plane (usually glass or transparent plastic) to reflect the image of an object to produce an effect that makes the real object appear to float. It is mainly known for use in entertainment situations, where objects appear to float in the air when viewed from certain angles.

3. Vapor Depiction Type

This method projects light onto fog or vapor to produce an image floating in the air. This method is particularly suitable for outdoor events and shows, and can produce large-scale 3D images.

4. 3D Hologram Type

This method records interference patterns of light from objects and reproduces them to generate true 3D images. By utilizing interference and diffraction of light, 3D information of objects can be precisely reproduced, and very realistic 3D images can be enjoyed.

5. Retinal Display

This display technology projects images directly onto the user’s retina. It has the form of a headset or glasses and can display high resolution. It can also be mixed with external images to provide an augmented reality (AR)-like experience.

Other information about Hologram Displays

Advantages of Hologram Displays

As Hologram Display technology has evolved in recent years, its use has expanded in many areas. This is due to the many advantages of this technology. Below are some of the major advantages of Hologram Displays.

1. Three-Dimensional Visual Experience

One of the most obvious advantages is the visual experience of a true three-dimensional image. Users can intuitively perceive the front, back, and height of objects, unlike 2D flat displays.

2. Real-Time Interaction

Modern Hologram Displays, when combined with technologies such as haptic feedback and gesture recognition, enable real-time interaction. This provides a more immersive experience.

3. Space Savings

Since there is no need to display physical objects, exhibition space and storage can be saved. Especially in situations such as commercial facilities and exhibitions, information can be communicated without feeling physically restricted.

4. Advanced Presentation

Complex data and structures can be visually presented in a 3D form, making presentations conducive to comprehension. This is expected to be especially useful in specialized fields such as medicine, architecture, and design.

5. A New Form of Entertainment

Hologram Displays offer new experiences in the world of entertainment. Used in concerts, on stage, and in attractions, they can provide audiences with unprecedented shows.

6. Reduced Environmental Impact

The environmental impact can be reduced by eliminating the need to produce and transport physical materials and models. This also contributes to the creation of a sustainable society.

What Is a Thermal Printer?

A thermal printer is a contact-type printer that prints by thermal transfer by pressing a metal letterform onto a printer tape called foil tape.

Features of Thermal Printers

• No drying is required because foil tape is used instead of ink.
• Clear printing.
• No need to clean hands or machine.
• The print is pressed against the substrate, making it uneven and difficult to tamper with.

However, compared to non-contact inkjet printers, the following disadvantages exist:

• Running costs for printer tape, type, etc. are required.
• Takes time for heating or cooling at startup or after trouble stops.
• Printer tape roll-in may occur.
• Printing may not be stable due to wear of the type or variations in contact pressure.

Uses of Thermal Printers

Thermal printers are mainly used to print expiration dates, lot numbers, and factory-specific symbols on product packaging films.

In horizontal pillow packaging, in which products flowing on a conveyor belt are packaged, continuous thermal printers are used, in which the type portion rotates to print continuously.

On the other hand, for vertical pillow packaging, in which liquid or powder is dropped onto the conveyor belt, an intermittent thermal printer is used to print when the film is sealed or cut.

Since foil tape is used, the machine and hands are less likely to get dirty, making it suitable for printing on packaging for food and medical products.

Principle of Thermal Printers

Thermal printers use foil, not ink, for the printer tape. By pressing metal type heated to approximately 150°C against the object to be printed through the printer tape, the foil is peeled off from the printed area and transferred to the object to be printed.

The foil tape transferred by heat consists of a film, a release layer, a color layer, and an adhesive layer from the type side. Unlike ink, there is no need to allow drying time after heat transfer.

The disadvantage of using thermal printers is that it takes time to change the printer tape and to reach the transfer temperature. Therefore, since around 2000, thermal printers, which do not use type and allow non-contact thermal transfer, have been widely used.

Thermal printers are attractive in that they can print barcodes in addition to letters because they do not use type.

What Is a Bernoulli Grip?

A Bernoulli grip is a non-contacting group that applies Bernoulli’s Theorem, the law of conservation of energy for fluid flow.

They are often used at manufacturing sites for the purpose of gripping and transporting workpieces, and are mounted on robots for transporting relatively thin and light objects.

In recent years, as technology has advanced and the number of precision devices has increased, non-contact chucks that do not damage workpieces have attracted attention in the semiconductor industry, etc., and demand is also on the rise.

Uses of Bernoulli Grips

Bernoulli grips are often used in the manufacturing of semiconductor wafers, glass substrates, etc., where physical damage, breakage, contamination, static electricity generation, etc., of the workpieces are not desired, due to their feature of being able to grip and convey the workpieces without contact.

Bernoulli grips are also suitable for gripping and transferring food products, for which strict hygiene control is required.

In the future, the use of Bernoulli grips is expected to expand not only in the food industry but also in the medical field.

Principle of Bernoulli Grips

When compressed air supplied from the supply port is ejected from the nozzle on the suction surface side, it becomes a swirling flow and generates a vacuum (this is called the cyclone effect).

When the compressed air is released into the atmosphere from between the target workpiece and the suction surface, the Bernoulli effect is activated and generates a pressure drop in the center of the grip. The negative pressure generated at this time allows the workpiece to be pulled up.

In addition to the suction force of the Bernoulli effect, the centrifugal pressure drop of the cyclone effect can be used to have a higher gripping force. This also makes it possible to handle a wider range of workpieces.

The greatest advantage of the Bernoulli grip is its ability to clamp workpieces without contact. Compared to conventional suction gripping with suction pads used in the manufacturing of semiconductor wafers, the Bernoulli grip is much safer and less likely to degrade the quality of the workpiece during transport.

What Is a Ferrule Gasket?

A ferrule gasket is a gasket used to connect ferrule pipes together. Fittings are used to connect pipes and valves. The connection methods used for fittings include threaded and flanged.

Among the fittings, ferrule is used in a more hygienic environment. The fittings are easier to disassemble than screwed-in or flanged fittings. They are often used in situations where they are disassembled for cleaning. Special gaskets are available.

Uses of Ferrule Gaskets

Ferrule gaskets are also called sanitary piping or sanitary fittings. Because they can be assembled and disassembled without the need for tools, they are used in areas that are frequently removed for cleaning.

The inside of ferrule piping is characterized by its lack of unevenness, which makes it excellent for cleaning. The lack of liquid accumulation also reduces the risk of contamination by foreign substances and bacteria. Because of these features, ferrule gaskets are used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food-related fields.

Principle of Ferrule Gaskets

The ferrule gasket consists of three parts: ferrule piping, gasket, and clamping band. The flange of the ferrule pipe has a groove engraved on it. The gasket is not a flat gasket, but has a cross-shaped protrusion that fits into the groove of the pipe.

When connecting two ferrule pipes, the special gasket is used between them to ensure a tight seal. The connected flanges are secured by fastening them together with a clamping band. Tightening can be done by hand, so no tools are required.

The gasket can be changed according to the fluid used. The most common is a white silicone gasket. Various other types have been developed, including PTFE, fluoroelastomer, EPDM, NBR, and Saniclean.

There are two types of ferrule gaskets: Type A and Type B. Type A gaskets have an L-shaped cross section with a raised area around the gasket, while Type B gaskets have a flat cross section. Type B has a flat cross section, and Type A is less prone to misalignment when placed on the flange of the ferrule gasket.

What Is a Plasma Cleaning System?

A plasma cleaning system is a high-performance device that irradiates plasma onto the surface of a material to perform tasks, such as cleaning, sterilization, and coating.

Plasma is a special gas state containing charged particles generated by giving energy to a gas, and is characterized by its extremely high reactivity with molecules.

The effectiveness of plasma cleaning systems depends on the type of gas used and the method used to generate the plasma.

For example, plasmaizing gases such as oxygen and nitrogen produces cleaning and sterilizing effects on material surfaces. The plasmaization of gases, such as silicon and fluorine, can form a coating layer on the material surface.

When considering the use of plasma cleaning systems, it is important to select the appropriate system for the purpose and application. For example, in the medical equipment and food processing industries, the emphasis should be on cleaning and sterilization, while in fields where wear and chemical resistance are required, the emphasis should be on coating performance.

Uses of Plasma Cleaning Systems

Plasma cleaning systems utilize plasma with high energy and reactivity and are used in diverse industrial fields. They are used in a wide range of applications, from areas requiring advanced technology to environmental and sanitary aspects.

The cleaning, film formation, and etching capabilities of plasma cleaning systems are particularly useful in the manufacture of semiconductor integrated circuits and other precision equipment components. As a result, products are produced quickly and with high quality, contributing to the development of advanced technologies.

Plasma cleaning systems can also be used to detoxify industrial waste. They can decompose hazardous substances and minimize their impact on the environment. Furthermore, they are also used to disinfect and sterilize food and chemicals, contributing to improved safety.

Principle of Plasma Cleaning Systems

As the temperature of a substance rises, its state changes from solid to liquid and from liquid to gas. As the temperature of a gas rises, the electrons in the atoms separate into positive ions and electrons. This phenomenon is called ionization, and the gas in a high-energy state created by ionization is plasma.

There are two main types of plasma cleaning systems: atmospheric pressure plasma systems and low-pressure plasma systems.

1. Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Cleaning System

As the name suggests, atmospheric pressure plasma cleaning systems generate plasma under atmospheric pressure. Plasma is generated by passing rare gases or oxygen through electrodes to which high voltage is applied.

A vacuum environment is not required, and the ion density is higher than that of low-pressure plasma. However, the disadvantage is that the object must be as close to the irradiation position as possible.

2. Low-Pressure Plasma Cleaning System

Low-pressure plasma cleaning systems generate plasma in a vacuum environment. Although its use is limited to a vacuum environment, it does not require gas. Also, the device can be irradiated at a certain distance from the object, so there is no need to worry about the installation location of the device.

Other Information on Plasma Cleaning Systems

Machines Used in Conjunction With Plasma Cleaning Systems

Plasma technology is mainly used in conjunction with vacuum chambers, electrode systems, and gas supply systems.

1. Vacuum Chamber
Most plasma processing takes place inside a vacuum chamber. The vacuum chamber creates a suitable environment for plasma generation by shutting off the outside gas and filling it with a specific gas inside.

Plasma generated inside the vacuum chamber can be used for cleaning, etching, coating, and other processes.

2. Electrode System
Plasma is generated by giving electromagnetic waves or an electric field to a gas. Therefore, the electrode device used in conjunction with the plasma cleaning system plays an important role.

The electrode cleaning system supplies the appropriate energy to the gas and facilitates plasma formation. The shape and arrangement of the electrode system affect the characteristics of the plasma cleaning system and the processing method, so it is important to select the appropriate electrode system.

3. Gas Supply Equipment
A variety of gases are used in plasma cleaning systems. The gas supply equipment will supply the necessary gases in the vacuum chamber at the appropriate flow rate and pressure. The type and amount of gas supplied will affect the plasma properties and reaction rate, so the accuracy of the gas supply system directly affects the quality of the plasma process.

What Is a Fly’s Eye Lens?

A fly’s eye lens is a collection of lenses arranged vertically and horizontally. They are called fly’s eye lenses because they look like the eyes of a fly.

The presence of multiple lenses reduce unevenness in the luminance of the light source compared to a single lens. Uneven luminance is an issue with LEDs compared to conventional light sources. For this reason, they are increasingly used in devices that use LEDs.

The shape of the lens to be placed depends on the case. Sometimes hexagonal lenses are arranged like a honeycomb core, and sometimes rectangular lenses are arranged.

Uses of Fly’s Eye Lenses

Fly’s eye lenses are mainly used in optical applications, especially in devices that require a uniform light source.

One application where fly’s eye lenses are used is in projectors. As applications have become more diverse and the demand for clear images has increased, the brightness of projectors has become higher.

Fly’s eye lenses are used to eliminate the unevenness that becomes more noticeable with higher luminance.

Principle of Fly’s Eye Lenses

A fly’s eye lens is not a single lens, but is composed of multiple lens layers.

The lens closest to the light source is the focus lens. Since light from the light source is weak when irradiated directly onto an object, the light converges and converts into strong energy. The distance between the lens and the area where the light converges is called the focal length. The focal length depends on the refractive index of the lens.

The fly’s eye lens is located in the middle and at the opposite end. The lens in the middle has its convex side facing the light source. It is responsible for spreading the light converged by the focus lens.

The fly’s eye lens at the end, with its flat side facing the light source, spreads the light spread by the second lens more evenly.

Recently, fly’s eye lenses have been used in research to create holographic images. Compared to lasers used in the past, fly’s eye lenses are superior in that they can produce full-color images and can be used in any location.

On the other hand, they are expensive.