Target Lifetime Calculator

This estimator gives a quick initial estimate of how long a new (elemental) target may last in service. Weighing a sputtering target during its life can estimate how long it will last IF you also have kW-hr data.

Don’t forget to check out our webstore for sputtering targets and evaporation material.

Footnotes

  • Don’t rely on a calculation! Check targets to make sure they are not sputtered through.

  • 25% target utilization is common for most non-magnetic materials.

  • Thickness is that of the active material, minus any backing plate.

  • “Y'“ is the material sputter yield, for 500 eV Argon.