Metal Deposition Machine for use in Forensic Laboratories and
Police Force Scene of Crime Departments

‘Fingerprint detection at the touch of a button’

• One button automatic vacuum pumpdown sequence
• Modern PLC control with full colour HMI touch sensitive screen
• Stainless steel vacuum chamber with powerful high vacuum diffusion pump and specially designed high vacuum valve
• Optional stainless steel low temperature refrigerated cold finger for enhanced water vapour handling and more rapid pumpdown
• Semi-cylindrical retractable workholder for easy sample loading
• High performance mechanical booster/rotary pump set
• Variety of chamber sizes available

(see also our new compact VMD560)

The technique of vacuum deposition of zinc and gold metallic thin film coatings onto principally flat, flexible substrates such as polythene packaging film was developed by the UK Home Office, Police Scientific Development Branch. The WTSL metal deposition machine is designed to be fully compatible with the procedures documented in the Manual of Fingerprint Development Techniques.

Fast, single treatment process, fingerprints may be photographed immediately after removing exhibit high quality images with resolution of fine detail including '3rd' level detail of pores and ridge shapes. Detection of fingerprints on articles which have been wetted due to rain, condensation or even prolonged immersion in water. Higher sensitivity and detection of about 10% more fingerprints than the superglue followed by dyeing process. Quick and easy to use - No messy dyeing.

Evaporation Source / Power Supply

Three independently selectable sets of evaporation filaments are located in an array within the chamber to achieve optimum coating uniformity during the evaporation of gold and zinc.

The filament clamp fixings to the source bars are so designed that changing the filament cannot result in accidental misalignment of the mounting.

The filament bar assembly is designed for straightforward removal and dismantling to enable cleaning.

PLC System Control The system is controlled and monitored via a full colour touch screen man machine interface. The system mechanical and software design provide a high performance system that is simple to use.

Options Both larger and smaller systems are available upon request.

Remote interrogation of system is available via modem link.

Benefits High performance vacuum system for rapid chamber pumpdown. PLC control to give a high degree of flexibility in operation via touch panel full colour graphic screen. One button operation for automatic chamber pumpdown. Precise control of deposition current to give excellent fingerprint definition. Modem for remote interrogation providing rapid service response / technical support Automatic vacuum pressure control for each deposition layer.

Cost effective hardware and PLC control upgrades for existing systems also available as well as competitive individually tailored service support contracts.We can also provide a wide range of vacuum equipment including vacuum pumps, vacuum ovens and resin degassing units.