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Thermal Vacuum Testing

Thermal Vacuum Chamber

The University of Arizona and UASI are proud to host the largest thermal vacuum chamber at any university worldwide! This state-of-the-art 40-ton chamber, located in the Applied Research Building (ARB), is now operational, enabling researchers to replicate outer space conditions, advance space research, and enhance mission capabilities. 

We also operate smaller T-VAC chambers with reduced working volumes, which are available to all interested parties.

TVAC Capabilities:

  • Simulate space environments for testing
  • Replicate vacuum conditions experienced in space
  • Simulate extreme temperatures to assess durability
  • Expose equipment to radiation levels encountered in space
  • Test performance and reliability of telecommunication satellites and components
  • Evaluate satellite components and spacecraft subsystems
  • Verify resilience and functionality of space-bound technology

Availability and Scheduling:

For detailed specifications, costs and availability, please contact us via email: space-institute@arizona.edu 

Specifications

Large Thermal Vacuum Chamber

  • 9’3”H x 9’0”W x 20’D (internal dimensions)
  • Rough Pump, Turbomolecular Pump and Cryogenic Pump able to achieve a vacuum Level of 10^-6 Torr
  • Thermal cycling from –300 F to 175 F (variable)
  • Up to 400 thermocouple channels
  • Three ASA19 ports available for customer use
  • Residual Gas Analyzer (RGA)
  • 16 IR lamps (groups of 4) 0W-1600W
  • Data logging for shrouds, vacuum, and IR lamps
  • ISO6 (class 1,000) Thermal vacuum chamber’s antechamber
  • 26’ Width x 42’ Length x 30’ Height
  • 5-ton monorail crane (Hook height of 25’2”)

Small Thermal Vacuum Chamber

  • 24” W x 24” D 24”H working volume
  • 24” platen
  • Vacuum levels of 10^-6 torr
  • Thermal cycling
  • Weight capacity is 150lbs
  • 15 Type T thermocouples
  • 6” viewport
  • Qty-2 6” conflat flanges for customer
  • Qty-4 2-3/4” conflat flanges for customer