Vakuumpumpen in der Verfahrenstechnik

Abstract

AbstractVacuum pumps in chemical engineering. Applications of vacuum pumps in chemical engineering are numerous. After a general systematization of the working principles of vacuum pumps, the most important types – liquid ring vacuum pumps, sliding vane vacuum pumps, and ejectors – are discussed with regard to their development and their working principle. Attention is focussed on aspects which allow a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of vacuum pumps. A systematic survey of the criteria leading to the selection of a certain type of pump show that these criteria may be based on the process as a whole or on environmental and safety considerations as well as economic aspects. In areas where liquid ring vacuum pumps, sliding vane vacuum pumps, and ejectors may be applied the extent to which the pumps fulfill these criteria is shown. In this context, a comparison of the liquid ring pump and the sliding vane pump is of special interest. The doubts recently publicized concerning the environmental compatibility of liquid ring vacuum pumps are shown to be groundless if the pumps are installed correctly. Great care must be taken comparing the economic aspects of liquid ring pumps and sliding vane pumps.