What are new ways to open a cylindrical pressure vessel?

[Daniel Sadlier]

I am currently helping one of my old physics professors and his Phd student designing a pressure vessel for ultra-sciencey detector (still figuring out the theory behind it all). So far we have the general vacuum tank that opens on the ends, with the pressure difference holding the ends on. However, the equipment needs to be checked after each test and it would be a pain to pull it all out to look at a single part (its over 1m long). Has anybody ever tried say, slicing the cylinder down the center, perpendicular to the cross-section, and then applying a pressure seal all the way around the edge? Looking for any creative ideas!

Thanks!

 

[Quantum Defect]

I am currently helping one of my old physics professors and his Phd student designing a pressure vessel for ultra-sciencey detector (still figuring out the theory behind it all). So far we have the general vacuum tank that opens on the ends, with the pressure difference holding the ends on. However, the equipment needs to be checked after each test and it would be a pain to pull it all out to look at a single part (its over 1m long). Has anybody ever tried say, slicing the cylinder down the center, perpendicular to the cross-section, and then applying a pressure seal all the way around the edge? Looking for any creative ideas!

Thanks!

With such a big seal, I would worry about leaks.

Generally, with any vacuum system, it is much cheaper to buy something off-the-shelf, compared to paying someone to machine everything.

With a large "half-nipple" (I'm sorry, that is what these are called), some assorted smaller half-nipples, and a second large flange you could make a vacuum chamber that is tuna-can shaped. I used a set-up like this once, with a winch to remove the large blank flange on top. It was very easy to set everything up, there was lots of space to add things, as we changed the design. You would need to have some parts machined and welded.
MDC is one of several reputable vendors of quality vacuum hardware: http://www.mdcvacuum.com/MDCMain.aspx

You can also buy things that are closer to a finished product.
They have cubes: http://www.mdcvacuum.com/displayproductcontent.aspx?d=MDC&p=m.1.2.7.1
Standard chambers: e.g. http://www.mdcvacuum.com/DisplayProductContent.aspx?d=MDC&p=m.9.3.1.4&g=m931

The standard gasket for the high vacuum hardware is copper, but there are also rubber (viton) gaskets that will work with their standard flanges.

 

[Dennis C]

How deep is your vacuum?
I agree with QD, bolted flanges are easiest and safest for deep vacuum's.