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Re: Cryogenics for tubes...etc

Well, have been contributing to other forums for years but I do check this one out from time to time. Now this post has drven me to actually become a member only so I can say, with respect, "are you kidding?"

I've been in electonics - primarily thermionic - for over 35 years and this idea is best described as "foolish" if not BS. I've also trained as a machinist and it's pretty easy to understand why cryogenic treatment works for cutting tools - and there are photomicrographs available on the net that pretty much illustrate the molecular realignment. But vacuum tubes aren't cutting tools! They aren't made of HSS (high speed steel) or Chromaloy!! The ability to emit electrons, deflect electrons, and recieve electrons isn't an "hardened edge" function. And despite the fact that tube manufacturers perfected the glass/metal seal long ago (I've got some 1920s tubes with what seems like perfect vacuum) I'd still be wary of subjecting valuable valves to temperature extremes that were never imagined by the designer - if you study valve history you can see how much trouble just getting good seal at high elevation pressures was (WWII military planes).

Again, no personal critique - just a perspective from an old fart surrounded by 1,000 vacuum tubes (hmmm, is this why I get nosebleeds in this room?).

Rob


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