Vacuum Pumps

Helix Technology Corporation Pfeiffer Vacuum Technology AG

Pfeiffer Vacuum Technology Ag Thomas Industries Inc.

Varian Inc.

Guide to Vacuum Pumps

By W. Aiman Mueller
Get your flow going with vacuum pumps to suit your industry's needs

There are two basic functions of vacuum pumps. One is to pull gases out of an enclosed space, thus creating a partial void, or vacuum. This use is integral to the manufacture of lighting. Alternatively, vacuum pumps may be applied to any space with an opening to create suction. Examples of this function are the aspirating tubes used in dentist offices.

Vacuum pumping is commonly used in the medical and science industries and has numerous applications in the automobile, machinery and aerospace industries as well. Vacuum pump equipment comes in a wide range of varieties and classes, from common sewage vacuum pumps to rare specialty vacuum pumps.

The list of mechanical and electrical methods for creating a vacuum is extensive. Here are just a few varieties of vacuum pump equipment:

1. Venturi vacuum pumps

2. Entrapment pumps

3. Rotary screw or rotary vane pumps

4. Ion pumps

5. Diffusion pumps

6. Plastic or oil-sealed piston vacuum pumps

7. Scroll pumps

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine the specifications of the vacuum pump you need Vacuum pumps are differentiated by their pumping speed and power, as well as by the method they employ to create a vacuum. Keep in mind that low-flow equates to high vacuum, and high-flow equates to low vacuum. Vacuum power is measured in Pascals (kPa), torr or millimeters of mercury (mm HG), and may be constant or adjustable as needed. Small pumps tend to have higher efficiency; but if your application requires a vacuum pump to run continuously, then make sure the pump you choose is large enough and manufactured for constant use. Otherwise, you'll likely run into overheating.

I recommend:  United Vacuum has good technical information on vacuum pumps, including a convenient vacuum rating conversion chart.

Shop around for the best prices on vacuum pump equipment There are a huge number of vacuum pump manufacturers. Once you have your specifications narrowed down, by all means, do some price comparison.

I recommend:  Grainger has a wide variety of pumps, including sewage vacuum pumps. Other vacuum pump manufacturers to look up, including makers specialty vacuum pumps, are Thomas and Tuthill Corporation. Varian makes pumps and sells vacuum generators as well. Also, Elmo Rietchle, which is a Gardner Denver product like Thomas, offers a good line of dry screw vacuum pumps.

Maintain and repair your industrial vacuum pumps Vacuum pumps are hardworking devices. Since they can also be fairly expensive, it's smart to do whatever you can to get longevity out of them. Follow the instructions from your vacuum pump manufacturer, especially regarding lubrication and seal preservation.

I recommend:  If repair is needed, The Pump Works services vacuum pumps nationwide.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Many types of vacuum pumps can be connected in series for added pumping power.