1. What Is a Vapor Chamber Filling Machine

Vapor chamber filling machine is used to fill working media in to the vapor chamber products.

Since vapor chambers use evaporation and condensation to transfer heat.

So it needs a certain quantity of working media to be filled inside its hollow cavity.

A vapor chamber filling machine can help to get a consistent quantity of liquid filled in each cycle.

If using a machine we can avoid most of the manual work and make our process more consistent.

Here is some functions of a vapor chamber filling machine you can have on your equipment.

• Dispense liquid with precision
• Have a place to hold liquid
• Move vapor chambers automatically
• Have interface for vacuum treatment
• Be able to set how much you want to fill
• PLC controlled
• Fill needle(s)
• Monitor process

It’s very beneficial to have a filling machine when making vapor chambers.

Many vapor chamber filling machines will be used in combination with other machines such as vacuums and sealers.

2. How Does a Vapor Chamber Filling Machine Work?

Since vapor chambers are using a liquid that is constantly evaporating and condensing to remove heat from the device.

We need to know how much liquid to put in the chamber.

A vapor chamber filling machine is a way to dispense liquid into our vapor chamber.

Here are some steps that happen during this process.

Place vapor chamber on filling machine.

This could be done manually by an operator or the vapor chambers can be feed into the filling machine.

Once on the filling machine there will be some type of fixturing to hold the vapor chamber.

Attach fill needle to fill port.

Now that we have our vapor chamber attached to the filling machine we can attach our needle to the port.

This can be done manually or automatically. We just want to avoid contaminating our vapor chamber and losing any liquid.

Set the amount you would like to fill.

An operator will enter in how much liquid they want to fill the vapor chamber with.

Fill working media into vapor chamber.

Now the machine will begin dispensing liquid into the vapor chamber. You may be able to run a vacuum during this step or after this step.

Confirm amount filled.

The machine can verify that the proper amount was dispensed. This depends on what the filling machine can do. If the filling machine uses weight you can check to see if your vapor chamber gained the right amount of weight.

Move vapor chamber to next step.

Your vapor chamber is now ready to be evacuated or sealed depending on your manufacturing process.

3. What Happens When Your Vapor Chamber Doesn’t Have The Right Amount Of Liquid?

If you don’t have enough liquid in your vapor chamber it will cause it to not perform to its design specifications.

You may not have enough liquid to make your vapor chamber perform when high temperatures are applied to the device.

If your wick starts to dry out it will cause the thermal resistance to go up.

Having too much liquid in your vapor chamber can also cause issues.

It may not allow for the vapor to travel to all areas of the chamber and can effect start up and performance.

There is a correct amount of liquid to put in to a vapor chamber.

Depending on what your design calls for you will want to test your vapor chambers to find this number.

Some things to consider when finding your ideal working media fill quantity.

• Volume of chamber
• Type of wick
• Working media
• Operating temp
• Amount of heat being applied
• Position of vapor chamber
• Design of heat sink or vapor chamber

Once you know what amount you would like to fill your vapor chamber with a filling machine will be helpful to keep that consistent during production.

4. What Are Some Key Components of a Vapor Chamber Filling Machine

When buying a vapor chamber filling machine there are many things that you should look for.

Precision liquid dispenser

You will need some kind of dispenser that will help you get the right amount of liquid in to your vapor chamber. Some vapor chamber filling machines will have this built into the equipment others you can buy a metering pump.

Tank for working media

You need a place to store your working media that can be fed to your filling machine. Make sure that this is clean and using proper material for your liquid.

Needle to fill liquid into vapor chamber

Make sure you have a needle that will fit the size of your port.

Fixturing to hold vapor chamber

Make sure you have a way to hold your vapor chamber while filling it. It would be nice to be able to change out fixturing if you were making different sizes of vapor chambers.

PLC Controller

If you want to automate this process you can control everything from a plc.

Interface to run vacuum

Some vapor chamber filling machines can be plugged in to your vacuum equipment.

Measuring / Monitoring

You can add on additional sensors to your vapor chamber filling machine to monitor what is happening during the process.

5. What are Some Things To Keep In Mind When Filling Your Vapor Chambers

Not only do you want to fill your vapor chamber with the right amount of liquid but you also want to make sure that everything is clean and there isn’t to many gasses in the vapor chamber.

Use the right liquid for your design.

If your designing a vapor chamber that will be used in a smart phone you may want to use water. Water works great in copper vapor chambers.

Make sure your liquid path is clean.

From the tank to the tubing to the fill needle you want to make sure everything is clean.

Prepare your vapor chamber.

Your vapor chamber should have been cleaned and assembled properly. Make sure that your wick is what you want it to be.

Depending on your process you may want to pull a vacuum on the chamber before filling.

Or maybe your production line has a different way that it’s being done. Just know that you will want to have a way to evacuate your vapor chamber before sealing it off.

Dispense the right amount of liquid into your vapor chamber.

Try not to create bubbles or contaminate your chamber with foreign material.

Verify that the right amount was filled into your vapor chamber.

You can check this by how much was dispensed or if your filling machine weighs your vapor chambers.

Continue to your next step in the process which would probably be vacuum and seal your vapor chamber.

Depending on what machines you have in your facility the process may differ.

6. Different Types of Vapor Chamber Filling Machines

There are many different types of vapor chamber filling machines that you can have in your facility.

Manual

If you have a filling machine that you fill manually. You will need an operator to place the vapor chamber on the filling machine and push buttons to dispense the right amount of liquid. This could be good for a lab or if you are only making small quantities.

Semi Automatic

Similar to a manual vapor chamber filling machine but can have some features that make the process faster. An operator will still need to load the vapor chamber onto the filling machine.

Automatic

This type of filling machine can take care of everything from moving the vapor chamber on to the filling station. Verifying the correct amount of liquid was filled and moving the vapor chamber to its next step.

Vacuum Filling Machine

Another type of filling machine that can help fill your vapor chambers. This can allow you to fill your vapor chambers under vacuum which could be beneficial depending on your application.

7. Automatic Vapor Chamber Filling Machine

As I mentioned above having an automatic vapor chamber filling machine can be very helpful when trying to make your vapor chamber process repeatable.

There are many different things that can be automated.

Move vapor chambers on and off of the filling machine

Set how much you want to fill

Allow for different recipes for different products

• Move the fill needle
• Can monitor the fill cycle
• Give you alarms
• Record information
• Link up with other equipment

Using a vapor chamber filling machine will save time from an operator doing repetitive tasks.

Just like with any automated equipment you will need to create a recipe that you know is going to produce a good product.

Learn more about making vapor chambers on an automated line here.

8. Vacuum Fill Your Vapor Chamber or Not?

As you can see there are pros and cons to both ways of filling your vapor chambers.

Below is a chart comparing both types of vapor chamber filling machines.

You will need to decide which works best for you when you are deciding how to manufacture your vapor chamber.

9. What to Look For When Buying A Vapor Chamber Filling Machine

Here is some specs that you should ask when buying a filling machine.

These specs will vary depending on the machine you purchase. Be sure to get all details from your machine builder.

10. Vapor Chamber Filling Machine Uses

There are many uses for a vapor chamber filling machine. Here are some examples.

Smart Phones

Smart phones continue to get thinner so we need thinner cooling components to keep them cool.

Laptops

With the demand for gaming laptops and higher performance computers we are starting to see more cooling solutions in these devices.

GPUs

Graphics cards produce a lot of heat in a small area. Using a vapor chamber will help dissipate that heat.

Data Centers

As technology continues to advance we need ways to keep these systems cool.

Automotive

With all of the electronics being added to vehicles we need to be able to keep them cool.

Communications

Radio and antenna’s are also getting hot so using vapor chambers is becoming popular in this industry.

11. Benefits of Using a Vapor Chamber Filling Machine

By using a vapor chamber filling machine you will be able to fill your vapor chamber more consistently.

Here are some benefits to using a filling machine.

Fill your vapor chambers with the same amount of liquid every cycle.

Repeatable process.

Avoid manual filling of your vapor chambers.

Less waste of working media.

Can make multiple vapor chamber sizes.

Helps track any abnormalities in your process.

12. Some Problems You May Run Into During Filling Process

There will always be problems when using a filling machine.

Knowing why things happen can help fix them.

Problem 1: Fill Quantity Not Correct

This could be caused by the pump varying, air bubble or improper measuring method.

Fix: Make sure your dispense amount is calibrated and there are no issues with your fluid path.

Problem 2: Air Bubbles

Air may get into your connections or your fluid path.

Fix: Make sure all your connections are tight and use your validated process to prime and/or remove any air bubbles.

Problem 3: Blocked Nozzle

Make sure your fluid path is free of debris. Inspect nozzle for clogs.

Problem 4: Leak

Check all connections for leaks.

Problem 5: Product Alignment

Make sure your product is align correctly to the fill connection.

Problem 6: Bad Thermal Test Results

Under charged fluid may cause bad thermal test results. But as mentioned above a bad wick or contaminates and non condensables can also give you a bad thermal result. So its best to look at your whole manufacturing process. Not just your filling amount.

13. Using a Vapor Chamber Filling Machine On a Production Line

Typically you will have a filling machine on your vapor chamber production line. Your process may consist of the following steps:

Copper Prep  Forming  Wick  Clean  Assembly  Fill  Vacuum  Seal  Test

You may have some processes where you vacuum before your fill. Or you may combine both on one station. So again make sure you have a process flow for your specific product.

Your line may also consist of the following equipment.

• Auto Powder Filler

• Vacuum Sinter Furnace

• Cleaning Equipment

• Liquid Filling Machine

• Vacuum Degasser

• Laser Welding Machine

• Hot Press

• Thermal Testing Station

Using all of these on one line can allow for less movement and a more efficient production process.

Links to our other vapor chamber equipment pages: Vapor Chamber Production Equipment Vacuum Degassing Machine Vapor Chamber Laser Sealing Machine

14. Things To Keep In Mind When Selecting A Filling Machine

Here are a few tips on selecting your filling machine.

14.1 Know Your Product

First know what your vapor chamber dimensions are. And what type of wick and liquid your using.

14.2 Know Your Desired Accuracy

As mentioned above. Know what your product requires. Don’t pick a machine because it says it can do .01 grams. If that isn’t necessary.

14.3 Know How Many Vapor Chambers Per Hour/Shift You Want

Once you know this. Then compare how fast your equipment can cycle.

14.4 Know What Liquids You Will Be Filling

Not only will the material that your fluid comes in contact with be important. But you will also want to know how clean your fluid needs to be.

14.5 Automation

Maybe you want a more manual machine that can fit many types of vapor chambers. Maybe you have a huge factory that wants everything automated with feeders and dispense equipment.

14.6 Do You Want To Hook Up To Other Equipment

Will you want to hook your filler up to your vacuum machine. Maybe your sealing machine as well?

14.7 What Kind of Service Can They Offer

Installing and calibration may be needed as well as teaching your employees how to operate and service the machine. So keep all of these things in mind when purchasing equipment.

15. Maintaining Your Vapor Chamber Filling Machine

Like any piece of equipment you will want to service your filling machine to ensure accuracy. Here are some things to check on when servicing your vapor chamber filling machine.

• Clean Filling Nozzle

• Check Your Liquid Lines

• Check All Seals and Connections

• Make Sure Dispensing Equipment is Calibrated

• Check Pumps and Valves

• Check Fixtures for Alignment

• Ensure Your Controls are Operating Correctly

• Log Your Service

You will also want to test your production line for proper filling amounts at certain intervals. This will vary on your product and filling equipment. But having a plan to QC your fill can help out.

16. About Nanjing Bangwin Machine

Nanjing Bangwin Machine specializes in machinery and providing production line solutions for our customers. When manufacturing a vapor chamber. You will want to think about your product and process flow. There may be many steps to manufacturing a thermal management product. Such as filling. Vacuuming. Sealing. Hot pressing and thermal testing. By integrating these machines on a line you can become more efficient.

Here are some links to other equipment we offer that can be integrated on your line.

• Vapor Chamber Filling Equipment

• Liquid Dispensing

• Vacuum Pumping Machines

• Degassing Machines

• Laser Sealing Machines

• Hydraulic Press Machine

• Production Line Integration

And once again remember to look at your products size and type of liquid you will be filling. As well as how many you want to fill per hour. And how much automation you want.

Contact Us For More Information on Nanjing Bangwin Machine.

17. Frequently Asked Questions

l What is a vapor chamber filling machine?

A machine that fills a vapor chamber with liquid.

l What type of liquid do vapor chambers use?

Most copper vapor chambers used in the electronics industry will use water. Depending on your materials and how hot you want your product to run you may use other types of fluids.

l Why do I need my vapor chamber filled accurately?

If you don’t fill your vapor chamber with the proper amount of liquid. It may not evaporate or condense properly. Which can give you less then desired thermal results.

l Can you fill a vapor chamber automatically?

Yes we can build you a machine that can position. Dispense. Monitor and even feed parts for you.

l What is the difference between filling under vacuum and filling a vapor chamber normally?

Filling under vacuum means your machine has a built in vacuum process to fill the liquid under reduced pressure. Normal filling would be putting liquid in your part without a vacuum process built in. Both ways require some sort of vacuum on the product to get non condensable gas out.

l How do I know how much liquid to put in my vapor chamber?

You can do some calculations based on the geometry of your product and some prototyping will help determine your ideal fill amount.

l Can you use one machine to fill different vapor chambers?

If your filling machine can handle the range of fill amounts. Yes you can fill multiple parts on one machine. Just be aware you may have to change out some fixtures and settings depending on your products.

l Why is my liquid not being filled accurately?

There could be many reasons. Improper pump calibration. Air bubbles in your lines. Leaking connections. Clogged nozzle or just plain inaccurate processes.

l Can I hook up my filler to my degasser?

Yes! We can build you a complete line that will hook up to many pieces of equipment. Including vacuum machines.

l How do I find the right filling machine for my application?

There are many things to take into consideration when buying a vapor chamber filling machine. Make sure you know what you need before reaching out to us. If you have drawings and know what you need filled and how many we can quote you on a custom solution.

18. Final Thoughts

Vapor chamber filling machines are used to accurately fill vapor chambers with liquid. This allows for a more consistent process when manufacturing thermal products. But remember there are many things to keep in mind when building out a process. Making sure your filler is accurate won’t give you the best thermal results if the rest of your process isn’t optimized.

By using automatic filling machines you can eliminate some manual tasks. Which can help when producing larger quantities of parts. Hooking up your filler to vacuum machines can also be beneficial. So when starting out on a new project know what your vapor chamber looks like. What liquid your using and how much. From there we can help you decide what type of machine you’ll need to produce your product.

At Nanjing Bangwin Machine we offer many different types of industrial machines. And we can help plan out your production line if you’re looking to manufacture vapor chambers or other thermal products.

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