Vacuum pumps can be found in various systems because they are essential for certain processes such as in composite molding, flight instruments, as well as semiconductor processing to name a few. Because of this, you need to thoroughly understand the process or the system that you are using to get the right vacuum pump suitable for it. This article tackles some of the most important facts that you should know about vacuum pumps.
Flow Rate and Vacuum Level
One of the primary things that you need to know about vacuum pumps is that they can be classified according to their flow rate and vacuum level. The vacuum pump specialists behind https://www.provac.com suggest that you familiarize yourself with this specification because this will help you determine the type of pump that you require. Technically, the flow rate denotes the amount of gas that the pump can displace over time. On the other hand, if your system needs a vacuum level, then you need to add a pressure drop between the system and the pump suction.
Operational Temperature and Evacuation Time
Another important fact that you need to know about vacuum pumps is that their operational temperature can affect their efficiency. In this case, what you need to consider is the temperature of the working conditions of the pump because extreme heat or cold can have a direct impact on how your pump performs. In this case, you need to provide your pump with the right protection but it will still be best if you can find a pump that can work optimally within your required conditions.
On the other hand, evacuation time is the period it takes for the pump to create the necessary vacuum in the system. You need to consider this because some applications may require a longer evacuation time while others may entail the need for a shorter one. Thus, the evacuation time of the pump may affect the operational capability of your system.
Material Compatibility and Required Lubricants
Finally, you also need to understand your pump’s material compatibility as well as its required lubricants. For instance, there are dry vacuum pumps that can tolerate both acidic and corrosive vapors. There are also liquid ring vacuum pumps that are perfect for systems running with physical impurities and water vapor.
Alongside the material compatibility, you also need to consider the required lubricants of your pump because these will keep your pump functional and efficient. The reason behind this is that the lubricants will minimize the friction that occurs in your system when your pump works, thereby, reducing wear and tear.
Bonus Fact: Power and Controls of the Pump
When you intend to get a vacuum pump, you should also consider the power it requires to run. The reason behind this is that the efficiency of the pump depends on its power rating, such that if you are supplying an insufficient amount of power to your pump, then it may not provide you a hundred percent of its capability. Providing too much power than specified may lead to irreparable damage to your pump.
When it comes to the controls of your pump, you can choose between a manually operated one or one that can be controlled automatically. The controls of the pump that you eventually go for depends on the kind of system that you are using. Nevertheless, you can get a programmable logic controller (PLC) for your pump along with vacuum and temperature transmitters.
Overall, make sure that you get a vacuum pump from a reputable manufacturer because they will be able to guarantee that you will get a high-quality one that is suitable for your application. In case you are unsure of which vacuum pump works best with your system, make sure to consult an expert.
Vacuum pumps have various applications but it remains that these pumps have certain specifications that you need to familiarize yourself with. Some of these include the flow rate and vacuum level, as well as the operating temperature and evacuation time, which can vary from one pump to another. Even the material compatibility and required lubricant of vacuum pumps may differ. Nevertheless, when you know these specifications about your pump, you are most likely to get the right one perfect for your system.