- 13th November 2006

ECellAs As-Cracker Source for MBE

The new ECellAs valved Arsenic effusion source or "cracker cell" for MBE from Oxford Instruments is designed for high performance MBE growth of As-containing III-V materials. With large crucible capacity, fast and precise flux control, and easy, modular handling for maintenance and crucible, the ECellAs is well suited for production and high-throughput development MBE systems in addition to research reactors.
ECellAs was designed for high-reliability and ease of maintenance: a frequent problem of valved cracker cells, that of valve clogging, is prevented by a unique patented independent heater design. An independent gasket-sealed As path from the crucible through the valve to the cracker prevents leaks and As migration.

For easy on-site maintenance and service, the unique ECellAs construction allows the reservoir to be individually demounted from the cracker unit, minimising system down-time and removing the need to replace the complete cell or return it for factory service. A heated secondary filling port allows As recharge without needing to empty the crucible first.

Excellent control over MBE growth processes has been demonstrated using the ECellAs cracker source, with:
• Fast, controllable and repeatable As flux modulation
• Highly controllable As4 to As2 transition
• Linear flux control, complete shut-off and low hysteresis
• Rapid valve response
Versions include 1 l, 3 l and 8.5 l capacity to enable the customer’s desired throughput and campaign length, and the ECellAs may be fitted to both Oxford Instruments’ own range of V80H, V90 and V100 MBE reactors and to any other vendors’ MBE systems. The ECellAs reservoir heater design directs As condensate away from the valve unit, giving complete flexibility to mount the cell in any orientation. The ECellAs can provide complete automated control via a motorised valve, and interfaces with MBE growth recipe software.
Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology will be relocating from its existing premises in Yatton, which it has outgrown. An additional 40 jobs will be created as the company expands into new products and markets.

Speaking about their decision to relocate, Keith Edwards, Financial Director of Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology, said, “The former RAF Locking is an ideal location for our rapidly-expanding company, as we estimate that we will be employing over 200 staff by the time we relocate. This move allows us to retain our highly skilled workforce, and the site’s parkland environment, excellent communications and very competitive costs make it the perfect solution for us.”

For more information: http://www.oxinst.com