Wobble Stick for Precision Manipulation in UHV | In Stock | UHV Store – UHV Store of Switzerland

The Wobble Stick is a magnetically driven manipulator designed for precise sample handling, positioning and mechanical manipulation inside Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV) systems.

Its magnetic coupling provides smooth linear movement, continuous shaft rotation and controlled angular deflection, allowing researchers to manipulate samples, operate gripping tools and perform mechanical adjustments inside a vacuum chamber.

Manufactured in Switzerland by Ferrovac, these Wobble Stick manipulators are available from UHV Store of Switzerland in standard Single Shaft and Dual Shaft configurations, with selected versions stocked for fast worldwide delivery.

Magnetic Drive Technology

Unlike conventional manipulators that rely on long bellows assemblies for linear movement, a magnetically driven Wobble Stick transfers motion through magnetic coupling.

This design largely decouples shaft movement from the pressure difference between atmosphere and vacuum, enabling smooth, controlled and nearly force-free manipulation.

The magnetic drive also reduces the mechanical stress associated with long bellows stacks and minimizes potential leak risks during repeated operation.

Continuous 360° shaft rotation provides flexibility for sample positioning, tool operation and mechanical adjustments within the vacuum chamber.

Wobble Stick Configurations

Single Shaft Wobble Stick

The Single Shaft version provides combined linear movement, continuous rotation and angular deflection. It is suitable for applications requiring precise sample manipulation, positioning or mechanical actuation.

Compatible tools include sample grabbers, screwdrivers and other UHV manipulation accessories.

Dual Shaft Wobble Stick

The Dual Shaft version features two concentric shafts with controlled relative axial movement. This enables the operation of compatible pincer grips for gripping, transferring and releasing samples inside the vacuum chamber.

The Dual Shaft configuration is particularly suitable for sample transfer between holders, stages and storage positions.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Mounting Flange	DN40CF (2.75" OD)
Angular Deflection	±20°
Linear Force	30 N
Single Shaft Torque	0.5 Nm
Dual Shaft Torque	0.4 Nm
Linear Travel	100–700 mm, depending on configuration
Retracted Length – Single Shaft	60 mm
Retracted Length – Dual Shaft	63 mm
Retracted Length – Dual Shaft with Pincer	90 mm
Maximum Bakeout Temperature	200 °C
Operating Pressure Range	1 × 10⁻¹¹ to 1000 mbar
Materials	Fully UHV-compatible
Parking & Protection Rail	Included
Country of Origin	Switzerland

The full angular deflection range requires suitable mounting geometry to avoid interference with surrounding components.

Applications in UHV Systems

Wobble Stick manipulators are widely used in surface science, scanning probe microscopy (SPM), thin-film research and other ultra-high vacuum applications.

They allow operators to transfer samples between preparation and analysis stages, position sample holders, operate pincer grips and grabbers, and perform mechanical adjustments without venting the vacuum chamber.

Their combination of linear travel, shaft rotation and angular movement makes them particularly useful wherever flexible manual manipulation is required within a confined UHV environment.

Standard and Custom Wobble Sticks

UHV Store offers standard Wobble Stick configurations with Single Shaft or Dual Shaft mechanisms and an Outline Parking & Protection Rail.

Selected standard configurations are kept in stock for fast worldwide shipping. Actual availability and lead times are displayed for the selected product variant.

For applications requiring High Torque, Wide Angle, Fine Control, alternative retracted lengths or special support structures, explore our XR Wobble Stick configurations.

For complete sample-handling solutions, we also offer compatible grabbers, pincer grips and other UHV manipulation accessories.

If you need assistance selecting a suitable Wobble Stick or adapting a configuration to your vacuum system, please contact UHV Store of Switzerland.