VPM-15 TriCAP™ Transducer

Ultra-wide Measuring Range

MEMS Pirani and Diaphragm Sensor Combination provides Measurement Range from 1.0E-6 to 1333 mbar

Corrosion Resistance

Optional Ceramic or Parylene sensor protection

Gas independent Measurement

Dual Diaphragm Sensor 5E-3 to 1333 mbar

CDG Automatic Zero Adjustment

The CDG AutoZero function eliminates need for manual zero adjustment

The VPM-15 TriCAP™ transducer sets new standards with an all-in-one, wide-range measurement solution for various vacuum applications. It stands out from other vacuum gauges by providing a cost-effective, gas-independent measurement from 5.0E-3 to 1333 mbar, combined with measurements down to 1E-6 mbar using the heat-loss principle.

In vacuum applications where the gas composition or type can change, traditional gas-dependent Pirani gauges may result in measurement deviations from the actual pressure. The TriCAP™ transducer uses a precision capacitance diaphragm gauge (CDG) sensor that eliminates gas dependency, providing accurate measurements even when gas properties change.

Do you need another VPM-15 configuration?

We offer a large selection of different configuration, so if you didn't find the right configuration in our Buy Now store please go to our VPM-15 RFQ / Order page.

Rethink Vacuum Gauging ​

The VPM-15 TriCAP™ is an innovative multi-sensor vacuum gauge and is the ideal choice for upgrading the performance of traditional Pirani gauge applications or as a cost-optimized all-in-one solution for applications that use separate capacitance manometers and Pirani gauges.  


VPM-15 Measurement Range

Automatically Zero Adjustment of CDG

The integrated heat-loss MEMS Pirani sensor extends the measuring range down to 1E-6 mbar and provides an innovative automatic zero adjustment for the capacitance manometer, eliminating the common need for manual zero adjustment in traditional capacitance diaphragm gauges. No manual push-button zero adjustment required—simply pump down to the auto-zero point, and the CDG is automatically adjusted and ready to use.

Enabling Use in Demanding Applications

For applications where sensors may encounter corrosive or aggressive gases, the TriCAP™ is available with a conformal protective coating that serves as an effective barrier.

The TriCAP™ transducer series offers an optional ceramic or Parylene protective layer to guard against sensor material corrosion or oxidation. Ceramic is highly resistant to corrosion and is a trusted material for vacuum sensor diaphragms in capacitance diaphragm gauges. Parylene, a unique polymer with exceptional corrosion-resistant and hydrophobic properties, is designed for medical applications, including lyophilization and sterilization.

In some vacuum processes, particulates can pose a risk to vacuum gauges. For these applications, TriCAP™ transducers are available with a protective baffle that shields against macroscopic particles. Combined with protective coating options, the TriCAP™ transducers are built for challenging vacuum environments.


VPM-15 Transducer with Protective Baffle

Analog Output

A wide selection of analog output scaling options to emulate other vendors’ vacuum gauges and transducers is available. An optional secondary analog output enables external monitoring of both the full-range vacuum pressure and the pressure signal relative to atmospheric pressure

The analog output voltage provides a signal for external readout or controls. The VPM-15 offers as standard a voltage output signal of 1VDC/decade mbar, Torr, or Pascal. 


 

VPM-5 Analog Output

Connect Digital

The RS-232 and RS-485 serial interfaces can be used to transfer pressure and temperature measurement data to external equipment.

The digital interface enables diagnostics, predictive maintenance, service, calibration, setpoint configuration, analog output scaling, and the acquisition of real-time vacuum pressure measurements for on-screen visualization. 

Reliable Setpoint Relay Control

The three independent solid-state switch relays can be used to control external equipment, such as pumps, valves, and safety interlock circuits.


Unlike electro-mechanical relays, solid-state relays provide greater reliability and faster switching speeds, with arc-free contacts and no EMI (electromagnetic interference) during switching.


TriCAP™ relays are engineered for durability and are UL-listed, CSA-recognized, and EN/IEC 60950-1 certified, ensuring high confidence in controlling critical vacuum processes and high-cycle applications.

VPM-5 Setpoint Control

Other Vendor Compatibility 

The VPM-15 TriCAP™ transducer is available with pin compatibility, analog voltage pressure signal emulation, and digital protocol emulation with vacuum transducers and transmitters from other vendors.

These emulation features enable quick, seamless performance upgrades of legacy micro-Pirani transducers, allowing a transition to next-generation vacuum transducers without changing cabling and system equipment software.

The VPM-15 TriCAP™ will provide enhanced measurement performance in many applications when replacing legacy vacuum gauges and transducers.

The other vendor emulation also provides compatibility with other vendors' controllers and display units.

Measure and Control Advanced Vacuum Processes

The VPM-15 TriCAP™ is engineered for best-in-class measurement and control of vacuum gas pressure. Several output options provide more than just a pressure measurement signal.

Applications & Markets

The VPM-5 SmartPirani™ is designed for reliable measurement and control of advanced vacuum processes and is suitable for a wide range of applications in industry and science. A wide selection of VPM-5 configurations is available to meet different requirements across various applications.

PVD

Hard Coating

The VPM-5 with serviceable baffle protection enable use and longevity in Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating applications. 

Furnace Vacuum Applications

Furnace

Measure and control vacuum during vacuum heat treatment. Optional baffle and coating protection available for industrial applications.

Space Simulation

Space Simulation

Gas composition can change during space simulation process due to outgassing from test objects. VPM-15 eliminates Pirani gas dependency. 

Solar Thin Film

Measurement and surveillance of insulation vacuum in Hydrogen storage tanks and supply lines.

Semiconductor

Semiconductor

CVD, PVD, and foreline vacuum measurement in Semiconductor applications. Ceramic corrosion resistant sensors available. 

Mass Spectrometers

Mass Spectrometers

Take advantage of the low pressure measurement capability offered by the VPM-5 in mass spectrometer instrumentation.

Specifications & Downloads

Specifications


Measuring range in mbar

1E-6 to 1333 mbar (7.5E-7 to 1000 Torr)

Measuring principle 1E-6 to 1E-3 mbar 

MEMS Pirani thermal conductivity

Measuring principle 1E-3 to 5E-3 mbar

Blended MEMS Pirani / CDG 

Measuring principle 5E-3 to 3.99 mbar

Capacitance Diaphragm Gauge (CDG)

Measuring principle 4 to 5.99 mbar

Blended CDG / Piezo Diaphragm

Measuring principle 6 to 1333 mbar

Piezo Diaphragm

Accuracy 1E-5 to 9.99E-5 mbar

25% of reading

Accuracy 1E-4 to 9.99E-3 mbar

5% of reading

Accuracy 1E-2 to 799 mbar

0.5% of reading

Accuracy 800 to 1099 mbar

0.25% of reading

Accuracy 1100 to 1333 mbar

0.5% reading

Hysteresis 1E-3 to 10 mbar (ISO19685:2017)

1%

Hysteresis 10 to 1333 mbar (ISO19685:2017)

0.1%

Analog output resolution

16 bit (150 μV)

Analog output update rate

124 Hz

Response time (ISO 19685:2017)

<20 ms

Temperature compensation

+10 to +50 °C

Solid state relay set point range

5E-6 to 1333 mbar (3.75E-6 to 1000 Torr)

Solid state relay contact rating

50 V, 100 mArms / mADC

Solid state relay approvals

UL Recognized: File E76270

CSA Certified: Certificate 1175739

EN/IEC 60950-1 Certified

Environment conditions


Operating ambient temperature

-20 to +50 °C

Media temperature

-20 to +50 °C

Storage ambient temperature

-20 to +80 °C

Bake-out temperature (non-operating)

+80 °C

Maximum media pressure(3)

4 bar absolute

Mounting position 

Arbitrary (4)

Protection rating, EN 60529/A2:2013

IP40

Humidity, IEC 68-2-38

98%, non-condensing

Power supply


Supply voltage

12-30 VDC

Power consumption

350 mW (max)

Reverse polarity protection

Yes

Overvoltage protection

Yes

Internal fuse

100 mA (thermal recoverable)

Materials


Enclosure

SS 1.4307 / AISI 304L / Aluminum 6061

Vacuum Process flange (media wetted)

SS 1.4401 / AISI 316

Vacuum exposed materials (media wetted) Standard version

316 Stainless steel, Kovar, glass, silicon, nickel, aluminum, SiO2, Si3N4, AI2O3, gold, Viton®, low out-gassing epoxy resin, solder, RO4305, vitreous silica

Vacuum exposed materials (media wetted) Parylene protected version

316 Stainless steel, Viton®, Parylene

Vacuum exposed materials (media wetted) Ceramic protected version

316 Stainless steel, Viton®, Aluminum oxide ceramic (AI2O3)

Process leak tightness

<1·10-9 mbar·l/s

Approvals


CE

EMC directive 2014/30/EU

RoHS compliance

Directive EU 2015/863

​(1) Accuracy specifications are typical values at stable temperature after zero adjustment.

​(2) Viton® is a trademark of THE CHEMOURS COMPANY FC, LLC

​(3) Overpressure limits only applicable with using fittings rated to the specified

(4) After change of orientation zero adjustment may be required


Specifications are subject to change without further notice

Datasheet

 VPM-5 Datasheet

User Manual

> VPM-5 Shortform manual

> VPM-5 Operation and Installation manual


3D Step files

> VPM-5-1X


Declaration of Conformity

> CE Declaration of Conformity 


ROHS

> RoHS statement


REACH


Reliability

> Reliability report

> VPM-5-1111111 STEP file

Do you need assistance to find the right vacuum measurement solution?

Reach out today to the Sens4 team for questions, product recommendations or quote. Learn more about how we can help!

Other Vacuum Measurement Products

VPM-15 TriCAP™

All the features and functions of the VPM-5, but now also with capacitance and piezo diaphragm gauge for gas independent measurement from 5E-3 to 1333 mbar.

Go to VPM-15 Product Page 

VPM-7 SmartPirani ATM

For applications that need atmospheric switch functionality.


TrueVAC™ Controller

Universal 3 channel controller for hassle-free display of measurement pressure data. Combine different vendors gauges.

Go to TVC-3 Product Page