Platen cooling mechanism for cryogenic ion implanting

A system and method for altering and maintaining the temperature of a workpiece, especially at cryogenic temperatures, is disclosed. The platen on which the workpiece is located contains at least one inner conduit through which fluid can flow. An apparatus, in communication with a fluid source, is brought into contact with the platen. For example, an inlet and outlet on the platen and the ports of the apparatus may mate. Once the platen and the apparatus are successfully mated, fluid is passed through the apparatus and into the platen. Once the platen (and therefore the attached workpiece) has reached the desired temperature, the apparatus stops the flow of fluid through the platen. The apparatus and the platen then disengage. The platen is then free to move and rotated as required by the ion implantation process. When the platen temperature deviates from the desired temperature, the above process is repeated.