A new evaporator system for target preparation at Argonne National Laboratory

As part of an equipment grant provided by DOE for an upgrade to the target laboratory, the procurement of a new, general purpose, high-vacuum deposition system necessary to insure reliable and continued availability of high-purity targets was recognized as a priority item. Recommended specifications for this system included an automated, high-vacuum pumping station, a deposition chamber capable of handling large area foils or installation of a substrate planetary system for uniform coating capabilities and incorporating state-of-the-art thin film technologies. A newly manufactured system, although expensive, should be sought so as to take advantage of any warranty. Several vendors were approached so as to determine a range of price, capabilities and performance before proceeding with a purchase.