Overview
ISO 2861:2020 - Vacuum technology - Dimensions of clamped-type quick-release couplings specifies the standardized dimensions for clamped-type quick-release couplings, the associated O-rings, and O-ring carriers used to ensure vacuum tightness. The second edition (2020) preserves compatibility of coupling diameters with corresponding vacuum flanges specified in ISO 1609, and provides figures, symbols and tabulated dimension requirements for common nominal bores.
Keywords: ISO 2861:2020, vacuum technology, clamped-type quick-release couplings, O-ring, O-ring carrier, vacuum flanges, dimensions, sealing, vacuum tightness.
Key Topics
- Scope and definitions
- Defines the clamped-type quick-release coupling and related terminology used in vacuum systems.
- Dimensional requirements
- Tabulated coupling dimensions for common nominal bores (e.g., 10, 16, 25, 40, 50 mm).
- Tables for O-ring sizes and O-ring carrier dimensions (Figures 1–4 and Tables 1–3).
- Materials and selection considerations (guidance, not prescriptive)
- Coupling and carriers: compatibility considerations such as service temperature, sealing capacity, corrosion resistance and magnetic permeability. Austenitic stainless steel is commonly used but not mandated.
- O-rings: specified as elastomer; fluorocarbon rubber (FKM) is commonly used but alternatives are allowed.
- Clamps: selection guidance (materials like aluminium or stainless steel are common); types/dimensions of clamps are not specified in this standard.
- Symbols and illustrations
- Includes symbol definitions and schematic figures for correct interpretation of dimension tables.
Applications
ISO 2861:2020 is practical for organizations and professionals involved in the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of vacuum systems where rapid, leak-tight connections are required:
- Vacuum equipment manufacturers (couplings, chambers, flanges)
- Vacuum system designers and engineers (research labs, semiconductor, coating and thin-film processing)
- Procurement and quality teams specifying component interchangeability and compliance
- Maintenance and service technicians ensuring correct replacement O-rings and carriers
- R&D teams developing bespoke vacuum connections that must remain compatible with standardized flanges
Benefits include standardized interchangeability, reduced leak risk, and clearer procurement/specification language for vacuum-tight quick-release connections.
Related Standards
- ISO 1609 - Vacuum technology: Dimensions of non-knife edge flanges (ensures flange compatibility)
- ISO 14617-3 - Graphical symbols for diagrams: connections and related devices
For specification details and exact dimension tables refer to the official ISO 2861:2020 document.