5 tips to keep your DRYVAC pump at peak performance
June 19, 2020
4 MIN READ
Dry compressing vacuum pumps offer several process-changing benefits. They are water-cooled, compact in size, and easily mounted to popular vacuum systems. These pumps run "dry," meaning no lubricant comes into contact with the pumping media. Oil-free dry vacuum pumps run cleaner, are more efficient, and require less downtime for maintenance.
As with any machinery, to reap all the benefits of dry vacuum technology, operators need to monitor performance and adjust as necessary. These five tips can help you make the most of your investment in Leybold DRYVAC technology.
1. Set up gas purge valves correctly
The gas purge valve keeps the pump particle-free and protected from corrosive gases that could enter the system and cause damage and corrosion. Incorrect purge settings can lead to the early failure of your DRYVAC pump. Check your service manual for setting recommendations.
2. Keep an eye on cooling temperature
Leybold designed its DRYVAC pumps with specific processes in mind. While you may be able to "make it work" when using a pump other than for its intended usage, your processes may suffer. The right pump, set with the right cooling temperature, will give you the best possible outcomes.
Remember, too, that the ideal temperature setting varies by application. Leybold developed the DRYVAC series for photovoltaic, display, and process industry applications. If you are using multiple identical pumps for various applications, check each pump's settings.
3. Set up smart pump technology
If you're using a DRYVAC pump with smart communications and control technology, make the most of it!
Real-time monitoring allows operators to measure data related to energy consumption, production, and performance, which enables you to address critical states more quickly. This level of oversight means you can perform maintenance as needed, reducing downtime and workforce costs.
These features can't be put to good use if you haven't set up your smart pump correctly. Take time to check network connections. Make sure everyone who needs to understand the monitoring system has training resources available to them. And of course, reach out to us if you need some pointers or help.
4. Check your blower interlock connections
One of the best parts of Leybold DRYVAC models is the ability to interlock seamlessly with other vacuum systems. This means they can be connected to existing systems as an upgrade or installed as part of a brand new vacuum system.
If you haven't addressed interlocking issues, however, you risk losing the pump to blower overheating. Improper interlocking can lead to lost efficiency, slower run times, or even a complete system shutdown.
Inspect your connection points before problems escalate. If you have questions about connection points, our team of engineers can help you select components that are a better fit for your specific system.
5. Opt for a non-return valve
A non-return valve ensures the vacuum doesn't suck air backward through your pump if you lose power. If that happens, you risk the loss of any product in the chamber and damage to the pump itself.
Related: See how much switching to dry vacuum technology can save you with our Total Cost of Ownership Comparison Calculator. Click the button below to get started.
Get the most from your DRYVAC pump
With all that in mind, be sure you’re also using the best available oil to lubricate DRYVAC pump gearboxes. Your service manual or Leybold representative can help you determine which oil to have on hand, and you can explore our product page for our range of oils, greases and lubricants.
If you've not invested in dry vacuum technology yet, or are still unsure, a little more research is always a good idea. Read about the benefits vacuum users have enjoyed when applying this solution to their process. Check out our recent survey results in our blog post, Vacuum User Survey 2020: The Use and Evolution of Dry Vacuum Pumps.
Or, you can go directly to the experts! The Leybold team is always available to answer questions, walk you through pump selection, and direct you to the right accessories and maintenance products. Click the button below and reach out today!
