Abstract: A novel method and machine are provided for processing workpieces at one or more work-stations under vacuum conditions. The machine comprises means for receiving at atmospheric pressure an object to be processed, an inlet lock that is connected to a vacuum manifold, at least one processing station that is at a pressure at least as low as 10.sup.-1 to 10.sup.-6 mm. Hg., means for conveying work-pieces to be processed into and through the input lock to said at least one processing station so that the pressure within the processing chamber is not adversely affected by introduction of workpieces thereto via the input lock, an output lock, and means for transferring workpieces from said at least one processing station into the output lock so that the pressure in said at least one processing station is not adversely affected by such transfer.