Industrial Vacuum Pumps & Pump Parts from Airmatic Compressor

Manufacturing processes across markets rely on industrial vacuum pumps providing negative pressure for evacuation processes, material transportation and other applications. This page will discuss the various technologies used in industrial vacuum pumps.

Industrial Vacuum Pump Technology

There are many types of industrial vacuum pumps, and each with unique purposes and advantages.

Tri-Lobe

Tri-lobe industrial pumps are positive displacement units that utilize tri-lobe impellers mounted on shafts that run parallel to one another. This technology can be used for vacuum application requiring ~14 in Hg or lower, as well as positive pressure up to 15 psi. Their pumping capacity is most commonly determined by their size, operating speed, and pressure conditions.

Rotary Vane

Comprising a series of radially movable blades on a mounted motor, rotary vane industrial vacuum pumps utilize some of the earliest known pump technology available via centrifugal force. They require frequent maintenance and are most commonly used for smaller, dedicated low vacuum applications.

Piston

Similar in function to an automobile engine, piston industrial vacuum pumps utilize pistons to draw air into the pump. When the piston moves down, air is drawn in via the intake valve; when it moves up, air is forced out via the exhaust valve. Piston industrial vacuum pumps are ideal in heavy duty applications where constant pressure and flow rates are essential.

Scroll

Commonly used in research environments such as laboratories, scroll industrial vacuum pumps are quiet, compact and oil-free, containing two spiral scrolls. One of these spirals is permanently fixed inside the pump while the other orbits around its fixed counterpart in an eccentric manner.

Rotary Screw (Dry and Wet)

Two rotary screws run parallel to one other within the pump housing system of a rotary screw industrial pump. These screws move in tandem in opposite directions. Screw technology is proven to be efficient and highly reliable.

Liquid Ring

Used for a variety of applications, liquid ring industrial vacuum pumps utilize positive displacement to function. A liquid (usually water) is run through the pump as the internal impeller spins, pushing a cylindrical ring up against the interior casing unit using centrifugal force. This ring creates seals in between the vanes of the impeller.

Claw (Dry and Wet)

Coming in both dry and wet varieties, claw industrial vacuum pumps contain two internal, claw-shaped rotors that spin in opposite directions and do not touch, which helps to prevent them from wearing out. They are some of the quietest pumps available.

Fixed Displacement vs. Variable Speed Drive

Industrial vacuum pumps have predominantly operated with fixed speeds and only recently have variable speed drives and other higher control technologies been incorporated. Fixed pumps operate at a constant speed and pressure and consume more energy, particularly with a fluctuating demand. Variable speed driven pumps can operate at different speeds and pressures and can track a demand profile saving significant energy and operational cost.

Industrial Vacuum Pump Considerations

While many industrial vacuum pump types can serve a variety of applications, several factors must be considered when choosing the right one for the job.

Flow Rate

For operations that deal with high pumping volumes in a short amount of time, flow rate can be especially important. The flow rate determines the speed that a process gets completed in and is measured in ACFM (Actual Cubic Feet per Minute).

Pressure Requirements

When compared to typical compressed air applications, pressure is much more critical in vacuum systems. Operating pressure capabilities vary widely between pump types, making it an essential application-specific consideration.

Wet vs. Dry

A wet pump uses a fluid (oil, water, etc.) to lubricate and seal within the pumping chamber. Dry pumps operate without a fluid, meaning the risk of media contamination is nonexistent. However, these pumps are most sensitive to particulates, moist environments and higher temperatures, where wet pumps are more resilient and efficient.

Physical Characteristics

The physical characteristics of the pump including size, weight and serviceability must be matched to the operating environment where it will be placed. Space, temperature, humidity, and noise are important considerations to ensure proper placement resulting in a long operating life.

Temperature

The temperature requirements of the inlet, ambient temperature of the pump, and its housing location will affect which pump is best suited for a job or application. Temperature extremes adversely directly affect operation, output, and vacuum system life.

Centralized vs. Local

Space requirements, budget requirements, and efficiency concerns all factor into whether a pumping system should be centralized or local. Well-designed central vacuum systems can reduce operating costs, increase productivity while dramatically improving the working environment in the process room. Local vacuum pumps are used when there is a significant distance between multiple pumps.

Controlling/Sequencing

Whether the pump system needs to be controlled or sequenced is dependent upon a variety of factors, including the number of pumps to be controlled and the demand profile.

Advantages of Industrial Vacuum Pumps

Industrial vacuum pumps offer an array of advantages and benefits:

• Design efficiency over compressed air conversion
• Dedicated reliability
• Easy maintenance
• Long intervals between maintenance periods
• Solutions available for a variety of media viscosities and types, including many solids and hazardous materials

Why Choose Industrial Vacuum Pumps from Airmatic Compressor

At Airmatic Compressor, we strive to truly comprehend each customer’s business and situational needs, ensuring that we can provide tailored solutions to their compressed air and vacuum concerns. Our customer-focused staff are knowledgeable, compassionate, and ready to help you purchase or design the perfect system for your situation.

For more information on our industrial vacuum pump capabilities, contact us or request a quote today.