28.10.2024A New Vacuum Research Facility Opens at Innovationspark Zürich

  Key Features of the DemoTube Facility 

The first phase of the DemoTube system includes a large vacuum chamber with an airlock and valve—one of the largest of its kind in Switzerland available for use. Researchers at the UZH Space Hub can now access this facility for a wide range of experiments, including: 

• Testing electronic components and full machine equipment (such as vehicles, satellites, dedicated test benches) in low-pressure or vacuum  
• Conducting biological or medical experiments 
• Providing large testing chamber with environmental control to simulate space conditions 

 
Technical Specifications: 

• Diameter: 2.2 meters inner diameter, 7 meters in length 
• Viewing: Plexiglass window for observation  
• Pressure range: Adjustable from 1 atm to 1 mbar, maintained for extended periods  
• Temperature: -10°C to 40°C (depending on local weather, no active regulation, feed-throughs for regulation can be made available) 
• Humidity: 50% to 98% (depending on local weather, no active air conditioning,  feed-throughs for AC could be made available) 
• Air particles: 1.5 – 2.0 μg/m3 (similar to PM10 levels in railway tunnels) 
• Weight limit: Can support equipment weighing up to 2,000 kg 
• Connection: various feedthroughs to ensure electrical and data connection with the test in the vacuum chamber 

Note: The chamber is not currently rated for experiments involving humans or animals. 

What is Hyperloop? 

Hyperloop, still in the technology validation phase, has the potential to revolutionize transport by enabling emission-free travel at speeds of up to 900 km/h inside vacuum tubes. This high-speed travel is made possible by magnetic levitation technology, which allows vehicles to glide smoothly with minimal friction. The reduced air pressure inside the tubes significantly lowers air resistance, contributing to substantial energy savings. 

Many experts see hyperloop as a potential solution to Europe's growing demand for passenger transport. With transport demand expected to double in the coming decades, hyperloop could replace flights over distances of up to 2,500 km, offering a sustainable alternative that reduces emissions by 95% compared to medium-haul flights powered by fossil kerosene. (see a study by Paul Scherrer Institut and EuroTube on the life-cycle-emissions of the technology here) 

About EuroTube  

The DemoTube project was developed by the EuroTube Foundation, established in 2019 by graduates of ETH Zürich as a research institution dedicated to advancing hyperloop technology in collaboration with Swiss companies and universities. In 2021, the Federal Council recognized EuroTube as a research institution of national importance due to the potential of hyperloop technology. 

Interested in Experimenting with the Vacuum Chamber? 

Researchers interested in using the DemoTube for experiments are encouraged to reach out to: