Hi Michael,
 
We regularly use valco valves for exactly the application you refer to and have had no problems what so ever.  The only thing you have to make sure is that you use the correct ferrules.  When sealing metal on metal I would advise using the gold plated ferrules (part number ZF1GP-10), but make sure your sample gas is relatively inert.  If you are attaching fused silica to the valve I would suggest using an external reducing adapter, this prevent ferrules sticking in the valve and results in a significantly better seal (part number FS.4-5, check the catalogue if you are using fused silica with an OD greater than 0.5mm).
 
Hope this helps
 
Cheers
 
Simon
 
p.s. the part numbers above are for 16" valve fittings
______________________________________
Simon Davis PhD.
Mass Spec Solutions
Technical Director
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Fax:    01619029624
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http://www.massspecsolutions.co.uk
----- Original Message -----
From: Michael Bock
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: 09 May 2006 10:09
Subject: [ISOGEOCHEM] Valco valves in vacuum

Dear all,

I go about building a preconcentration system for methane in small air
samples.
Did anyone use Valco switching valves (6port, 1/8 or 1/4'', type 6UWE or
6MWE2) under vacuum conditions?
What leak rate did you observe at which pressures? Any recommendations
concerning the switching between vacuum conditions in one postion and
non-vacuum in the other?

Any infomation will be very much appreciated...

Regards
Michael

--
Michael Bock
Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research
Am Alten Hafen 26
27568 Bremerhaven
Germany
tel: +49-471-4831-1967
lab: +49-471-4831-1026
fax: +49-471-4831-1926
email: [log in to unmask]