A comprehensive introduction to RIKEN molecular pumps, including its core technologies, core product lines, and applicable applications. RIKEN's molecular pumps are centered around the Molecular Drag Pump (MDP), combining magnetic levitation technology to achieve revolutionary breakthroughs.
Operating Principle
A high-speed rotor (90,000+ rpm) collides with gas molecules, transferring momentum to the molecules and "dragging" them from the inlet to the exhaust, achieving ultra-high vacuum.
Disruptive Advantages
Features: Traditional Turbomolecular Pump (TMP) RIKEN MDP
Bearing Technology: Mechanical bearing (lubricated)
Magnetic bearing (contactless)
Ultimate Vacuum: 10⁻⁷ Pa
10⁻⁷~10⁻⁹ Pa
Light Gas Pumping Speed: Low (poor hydrogen/helium efficiency)
High (hydrogen compression ratio >10⁹)
Vibration/Noise: High: < 0.1 μm / <45 dB
Maintenance Requirements: Regular bearing/lubricant replacement
Lifetime maintenance-free
RIKEN molecular pumps are divided into four series based on pumping speed and application scenarios, covering the entire range from scientific research to industrial applications:
1. Compact Research-Grade (SMP Series)
Targeting: Desktop instruments, small vacuum chambers
Representative Models:
SMP-50: Pumping speed 50 L/s (nitrogen), gas inlet NW25
SMP-100: Pumping speed 100 L/s L/s (e.g., SMP-100-34B), gas inlet NW34
Applications:
▶ Electron microscopes (SEM/TEM)
▶ Portable mass spectrometers
▶ Quantum chip test chambers
Targeting: Core laboratory equipment, mid-size vacuum systems
Representative models:
MDP-300: Pumping speed 300 L/s, gas inlet CF100
MDP-500: Pumping speed 500 L/s, supports efficient helium extraction
Applications:
▶ Surface analysis (XPS, AES)
▶ Ion implanters
▶ Synchrotron radiation beamlines
Targeting: Semiconductor manufacturing, large-scale equipment
Representative models:
UL-800: Pumping speed 800 L/s, gas inlet CF160
UL-2000: Pumping speed 2000 L/s, integrated water cooling system
Applications:
▶ EUV lithography vacuum chamber
▶ Nuclear fusion experimental equipment (such as JT-60SA)
▶ Space environment simulation chamber
4. Customized Special Series
Ultra-high frequency magnetic levitation pump: Speed >120,000 rpm (for cold atom capture)
Corrosion-resistant: Titanium alloy rotor (for handling corrosive gases)
Ultra-low temperature pump: -196°C cryogenic operation (for quantum computing)
Magnetic levitation bearings
Zero wear, shock resistance, and support for installation at any angle.
Oil-free design
Meets ISO Class 0 cleanroom standards, completely eliminating hydrocarbon contamination.
High-efficiency light gas extraction
Hydrogen/helium pumping speeds reach 2-3 times that of traditional TMPs (an essential requirement in the nuclear fusion and hydrogen energy sectors).
Intelligent Control
RS-485/Ethernet communication for real-time monitoring of vibration, temperature, and speed.
Application Scenario Recommended Series Typical Model Key Requirements
Desktop Electron Microscope/Mass Spectrometer SMP Series SMP-100-34B: Compact, Low Vibration
Surface Analysis Laboratory MDP Series MDP-500: High Cleanliness, Medium Pumping Speed
Semiconductor Lithography System UL Series UL-2000: High Pumping Speed, Micro-Vibration Resistance
Quantum Computer Vacuum Chamber Customized Series Ultra-High Frequency Magnetic Levitation Pump: Extremely Low Vibration, Ultra-High Speed
Nuclear Fusion Device UL Series UL-800 + Corrosion-Resistant Version: Efficient Hydrogen Extraction, Plasma Resistance
Manufacturing Partners:
Ebara: Mass Production of Industrial-Grade MDP Pumps (such as the UL Series)
ULVAC: Integrated into Semiconductor Equipment
Global Deployment:
Adopted by research institutions and wafer fabs in over 30 countries, including:
▶ European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)
▶ TSMC EUV Production Line
Summary
RIKEN molecular pumps, with magnetic levitation molecular traction technology (MDP) at their core, cover all application scenarios with four series: SMP (compact), MDP (high-performance), UL (industrial), and customized. They have become the benchmark for ultra-high vacuum, pollution-free, and high-stability applications. Key selection parameters include pumping speed, gas type, cleanliness, and vibration tolerance.