Top Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump

Updated on April 7, 2020

A rotary vane pump is designed to work in a low-viscosity fluid at low pressures or low to medium volumes. Some pumps, meanwhile, can handle medium-viscosity fluids. The machine utilizes positive displacement to route the medium that enters the pump housing. 

Rotary vane vacuum pumps are typically used in producing carbonated sodas or automobiles. But they are also present in laboratories around the world, as well.

According to data, the vacuum pump segment was worth $4.4 billion in 2018. It is expected to reach a compound annual growth rate of six percent through 2026. 

Factors to Consider when Buying a Rotary Vane Pump

Here are the things you need to look at when choosing rotary vane vacuum pumps:

  • Resistance to corrosion — You need to determine if the machine is corrosion-resistant, which is ideal to extend the lifespan of the machine.
  • The Flow rate — It refers to the draining capacity of the machine. You need to assess the capability of the pump in terms of the volume flow rate (pumping speed), in addition to the mass flow rate. As a rule of thumb, the draining time is inversely proportional to the flow rate.
  • Lubrication — Most rotary vane vacuum pumps require lubrication, the question is by how much. When it comes to the laboratory setting, however, most companies will choose a dry pump since it has less maintenance. Nevertheless, a vacuum pump that needs oil will provide greater resistance and efficiency.
  • Materials used — You also need to make sure that the machine will be compatible with the gases, solvents, and chemicals you are working with. 
  • Maintenance — Not all rotary vacuum pumps are created the same. Read the manual and determine the cycle between maintenance. Even if it has a cheaper upfront cost, you may spend more in maintenance costs during the lifespan of the machine. Additionally, you also need to look at the warranty cover. How many months before the guarantee expires?

Rotary Vane vs. Hybrid

The rotary vane is relatively smaller compared to the diaphragm or scroll. But it is also one the cheaper machine by comparison. Another advantage for laboratories is its multiple-application capability, which means you can utilize it for multiple uses and not have to buy new equipment.

On the downside, the rotary vane is an oil-guzzler since it needs a lubricant for all the working parts. You need to check for dirty fluids and change the oil every 3,000 hours. Another thing you may need is a condenser to gather the vapors before they pass through the pump.

The hybrid pump, meanwhile, is a combination of a rotary vane and the diaphragm. The latter will work to maintain negative pressure on the oil. This makes sure that the oil is condensed and carries zero vapor before passing through the rotary vane pump. As such, you do not need to change the oil as much. It is expected that compared to the standard rotary vane, you will change the fluid every 30,000 hours. 

When buying rotary vane pumps, it is crucial that you do not be hasty with your decisions. Perform your due diligence so that you will buy the perfect machine that is tailor-fit to your needs. 

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.