Patent ID: 6517692
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: C23C

Abstract:
An apparatus for flow-line treatment of articles under artificial atmosphere, the apparatus comprising at least a first chamber and a second chamber;the first chamber comprising a vacuum working chamber provided with treatment means for processing of the articles; means for maintaining the artificial atmosphere in the first chamber; at least one lock at one end of the first chamber; first transport means for transporting the articles through the first chamber and the at least one lock; loading and unloading devices in the ambient atmosphere; and second transport means for transporting the articles though the second chamber; wherein each lock comprises a movable body, installed inside an airtight shell, wherein each movable body comprises at least first and second cavities; the movable body is movable between a first position, in which the first cavity is in connection with the first chamber and the first transport means extend into the first cavity, and a second position, in which the first cavity is in connection with the second chamber, being located at another side of the lock, while the second transport means extend into the first cavity; and wherein an air gap seal is located between the shell and the body, wherein the at least first and second cavities are adjacent and similar and are provided with openings; each cavity is made with a volume for one carrier with articles; and the first and second transport means are made for simultaneous and antiparallel movement.