Essential to the operation of equipment and processes for many professionals, vacuum pumps are high-tech devices with a sophisticated design. However, these devices can seem quite complex at first glance for a newcomer to the field, especially when considering the many different types of pumps available. To help you gain a clearer understanding, Plasmadiam explains in this article the different types of vacuum pumps used in various industries.
A vacuum pump is a device designed to extract air or gases from a closed chamber in order to reduce internal pressure. The goal is to create an environment that is partially or completely free of gas particles, depending on the required vacuum level. This control of vacuum allows us to:
Industrial vacuum is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Each application requires a specific vacuum level, a given level of stability, and particular technical constraints (temperature, flow rate, nature of the gases handled, operating conditions, maintenance…). This is why industry relies on several families of pumps, each meeting specific needs.
Rotary vane vacuum pumps are among the most common solutions in industry. They operate using a rotor equipped with sliding vanes that rotate within an eccentric stator. This movement creates successive chambers where the gas is trapped, compressed, and then discharged.
They are valued for their robustness, their ability to achieve reliable intermediate vacuum levels, their continuous and stable operation and their ease of maintenance.
They are widely used in laboratories, vacuum packaging, pharmaceutical processes, printing, and many general applications.
Screw pumps rely on two screw-shaped rotors that rotate in opposite directions. This movement forces the gas toward the outlet while gradually reducing the pressure.
Their main advantage is their oil-free operation in the compression chamber, which creates a clean vacuum. They tolerate harsh environments and contaminated gases well and generally require less maintenance over time. They are perfectly suited to the chemical, pharmaceutical and food industries.
Roots pumps, also called booster pumps, are used in conjunction with other vacuum pumps. They rely on two synchronized rotating lobes that move large quantities of gas. These pumps significantly increase flow rates and accelerate vacuum achievement.
They are essential when the process requires rapid pumping, a wide operating range or improved performance of an existing vacuum system.
They are commonly found in the metallurgical industry, coating processes, high-vacuum applications, and systems requiring rapid performance increases.
Liquid ring pumps use a fluid (often water) to create a rotating ring that provides a seal and allows for gas compression. They offer several key advantages, including high robustness, excellent tolerance to humid, contaminated, or corrosive gases and the ability to operate in complex environments.
They are therefore particularly used in the chemical, manufacturing, environmental, petrochemical and certain energy installations sectors.
Diaphragm pumps operate without oil and rely on the deformation of a flexible diaphragm that draws in and expels gases. They are widely used in laboratories, medical equipment, scientific analysis and processes requiring high purity.
Choosing an industrial vacuum pump depends on a combination of parameters. A pump isn’t selected solely based on its vacuum level: the required flow rate, expected stability, chemical, thermal and mechanical conditions, as well as integration constraints within existing installations, must all be considered.
As a guide, here are some examples of vacuum pumps commonly used in various industries, although this isn’t a universal rule:
In all cases, it is the analysis of your process that determines the appropriate solution.
The choice depends on the required vacuum level, flow rate, type of gas, chemical and thermal constraints, cleanliness requirements and the operational context of the installation.
No. Each sector has its own constraints. A pump suitable for a laboratory will not necessarily be appropriate for a production line or an aggressive chemical environment.
Yes. Regular maintenance guarantees performance, prevents costly breakdowns and extends the lifespan of the equipment.
Absolutely. We support Swiss and international companies in the design, supply, integration and commissioning of customized vacuum systems.
Would you like Plasmadiam to assist you in selecting the vacuum pumps best suited to your needs? Don’t hesitate to contact us!
