KF Tees for Vacuum System: Versatile Branching with Quick-Flange
Convenience
Product Description
KF tees for vacuum system are three-port quick-flange fittings designed to split, combine, or
redirect gas flow while maintaining high-vacuum integrity from
atmospheric pressure down to 10⁻⁸ Torr. Also known as NW tees,
these components feature a straight-through main line with a
perpendicular branch port, smooth internal geometries, and KF
(Klein Flansch / Quick Flange) connections on all three ports.
Manufactured from high-quality 304 or 316L stainless steel, KF tees
are essential for vacuum manifolds, instrumentation ports, gas
introduction lines, and pumping networks. Each tee incorporates the
internationally standardized KF connection system, which uses a
centering ring, elastomer O-ring, and wing nut clamp for rapid,
tool-free assembly. Whether you are adding a pressure gauge,
connecting a residual gas analyzer (RGA), or constructing a gas
distribution hub, these tees deliver the conductance, flexibility,
and reliability that demanding high-vacuum applications require.
Key Features & Characteristics
Configuration: True three-port tee (straight-through with perpendicular branch)
Connection Type: KF (NW) flanges on all three ports
Port Sizes: All ports same size, or reducing tees with mixed diameters
Vacuum Range: Atmospheric to 1×10⁻⁸ Torr
Material: 304 or 316L Stainless Steel
Internal Surface Finish: Ra ≤ 0.8 µm (electropolished or mechanically polished)
Outgassing Rate: < 2×10⁻⁸ Torr·L/s·cm² (after vacuum cleaning)
Leak Integrity: Helium leak tested to < 1×10⁻⁹ mbar·L/s
Bakeout Capability: Up to 150°C (with Viton® O-rings)
Assembly: Tool-free clamping with KF clamps and centering rings
Branch Orientation: 90° perpendicular to main axis (standard)
Applications
Vacuum manifolds: Multi-port distribution networks for pumping and venting
Instrumentation ports: Connecting pressure gauges, RGAs, and ion gauges
Gas introduction lines: Admitting process gases into deposition chambers
Thin-film deposition: Sputtering, evaporation, and ALD system plumbing
Helium leak detection: Creating T-branches for test port connections
Analytical instruments: Mass spectrometers, electron microscopes, surface analysis tools
Semiconductor equipment: Load locks, transfer chambers, and process modules
R&D vacuum systems: Flexible experimental setups requiring multiple access points
Foreline systems: Branching between backing pumps and high-vacuum pumps
Why Choose Our KF Tees for Vacuum Systems?
We combine precision forming, CNC machining, and orbital welding to
deliver KF tees that meet or exceed international high-vacuum
standards. Every tee is helium leak tested, ultrasonically cleaned
with semiconductor-grade detergents, and double-bagged in a
cleanroom environment. Reducing tees (different branch diameters),
custom port orientations, and special center-to-flange dimensions
are available with engineering support.
