This video focuses on the lifetime of an ion pump element. Cathode wear and sputtered materials are visualized. Both can cause ion pump performance degradation and eventual failure. Typical lifetime averages 50,000-70,000 hours at 1x10-6 mbar. Lifetime is variable based on pressure and gas species. The relationship with pressure is linear and ion pump at UHV pressures (1x10-9 and lower) will last decades.
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