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Fundamentals of Vacuum Technology (GLT 222)

Vacuum, space in which there is no matter or in which the pressure is so low that any particles in the
space do not affect any processes being carried on there. It is a condition well below normal atmospheric
pressure and is measured in units of pressure (the pascal).

Vacuum technology is a method used to evacuate air from a closed volume by creating a pressure
differential from the closed volume to some vent, the ultimate vent being the open atmosphere. When using
an industrial vacuum system, a vacuum pump or generator creates this pressure differential.

Understanding Vacuum Pumps

A Vacuum Pump is a device that removes gas molecules from a sealed volume, creating a partial or complete
vacuum. It lowers the pressure inside the system, allowing for the manipulation of substances such as liquids
and gases. It is work by creating a difference in pressure between the system and the outside atmosphere,
causing gas molecules to move toward the pump and away from the system. The lower the pressure inside the
system, the more efficient the pump will be.

Suction
Suction uses the atmospheric pressure generated when air is exhausted from the container. Suction can be used
for two purposes: drawing in and moving substances and extracting substances from a certain volume of
containers.

Suction Applications:
Medical equipment: Dental treatments, Liposuction equipment, etc.
Compression for futons and clothing, toilets used in Shinkansen trains and
vehicles for long-distance travel
Milking machines

Adsorption
Adsorption uses the pressure difference from atmospheric pressure caused by making space into the vacuum.
Vacuum adsorption is also called chuck and is used to fix and transport goods.

Adsorption Applications:
- Transport of items that are fragile to impacts: such as packed eggs or glass
plates.
- Machines that open a bag when packing sweets and snacks.

Gas collecting
Hazardous substances such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and dioxins can be recovered using a vacuum
pump.
Gas Collecting Applications:

Recovery of hazardous substances such as chlorofluorocarbons used in

refrigerators and air conditioners and carbon monoxide is contained in
automobiles' exhaust gas.
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Forming
When a sheet of thermoplastic resin, which is the material of a molded product, is heated and fitted into the
mold, the air between the sheet and the mold is exhausted by a vacuum pump. The product is molded by
adhering the sheet to the mold.

Forming Applications!
- Egg packages.
- Containers for meats, fish, vegetables, prepared foods, sweets, and
snacks.
- Plastic containers for pills.

Liquid Filling
The inside of the airtight container is vacuumed to draw in the liquid by using the pressure difference
between the inside and outside of the container.

Liquid Filling Applications: -

Putting soy sauce into small soy sauce containers. -
Filling viscous liquid into containers such as cosmetics.

Gas Replacement
Neon tubes used for illuminations in the city and lighting contain neon gas, and gas replacement is used to
fill this gas.

Gas Replacement Applications:

- Refrigerant filling for air conditioners.
- Illuminations in the city.
- Neon tubes.
- Fluorescent lights.

Oxidation Prevention
It is necessary to block what you don't want to oxidize from oxygen to prevent oxidation. When a sealed space
is evacuated using a vacuum pump, oxygen in the space is discharged to the outside to be removed. The oxygen
is reduced in a vacuum state, enabling to inhibit changes of substances due to oxidation.

Oxidation Prevention Applications:

- Food preservation (vacuum pack).
- Dried flowers.
- Pressed flowers.
- Metal processing.
- Clothing storage after cleaning (vacuum packaging).

Freeze Drying
It is a method to vacuum dry materials while they are frozen. The vacuum helps to remove moisture from the
materials, removes the moisture from the material surfaces, and keeps the materials at a low temperature.
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Freeze-Drying Applications:
- Instant coffees.
- Instant ramen noodles.
- Antibiotics.
- Blood preparation
- Injection solutions such as vaccines.

Vacuum Drying
It is a method to dry materials by lowering the pressure inside of the container without freezing them. The
vacuum helps to remove moisture from the materials, removes the moisture from the material surfaces, and
keeps the materials at a low temperature.

Vacuum drying is used for the following applications!

- Drying seasonings, spices, vegetables, and fruits
- Drying electronic components and metal materials after cleaning.
- Charging Gas for air conditioner.

Distillation
Vacuum concentration is a method to increase the concentration of a solution by evaporating the moisture in
the solution under vacuum. Generally, it is used in the treatment process before vacuum drying or freeze-
drying.

Distillation Applications!
- Food additives such as emulsifiers: Bread, Cakes, Ice cream, etc.
- Vitamins Extraction: Health foods, Medicine, etc.
- Distilled Spirits: White liquor, Shochu, Whiskey, etc.
- Polyamide Resins: Crimping tape, Laminates, etc.
- Lubricating Oils: Metalworking oil, Engine oil, Vacuum pump
oil, etc.

Concentration
Vacuum concentration is a method to increase the concentration of a solution by evaporating the moisture in
the solution under vacuum. Generally, it is used in the treatment process before vacuum drying or freeze-
drying.

Concentration Applications:
- Condensed milk and powdered milk
- Blood separation in hospital laboratories.
- Vaccines.
- Genetic engineering and Synthetic polymer chemistry.

Degassing and Defoaming

When an airtight container with materials in it is evacuated so that inside may be full of vacuum, the air in the
materials expands and comes out in a forming shape. Vacuum degassing uses this principle. The air contained
in the liquid causes rust in the metal, and bubbles formed in the material reduce the product's value; defoaming
is used to remove the air.
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Degassing and Defoaming Applications:

<Degassing>
- Electronic components and semiconductors.

<Defoaming>
Adhesives, insulating materials, electronic materials, resin materials,
pharmaceuticals (Ointments and dental materials), cosmetics (Lipsticks
and cosmetic creams), cosmetics (Lipsticks and cosmetic creams),
building materials (Sealing materials, glass, and artificial stones),
automobile parts (master models, sealing materials, resins, and paints),
elasticity (Noodles such as udon, ramen, and pasta), and aerated chocolate.

Vacuum Deposition
A deposition is a method to form a thin film by heating an individual substance under reduced pressure and
evaporating it to form an individual film on the substrate substance.

Vacuum Applications:
- Sunglass lenses.
- Coating of mirrors, Headlights of automobiles.
- Quartz crystal resonator for smartphones and wearables.
・Canadian 50 dollar bills, preventing fake bills.

Sputtering
Sputtering is one of the methods to form a thin film. When ions in plasmas produced by emitting electricity
collide with a material, the material bounds back. Sputtering uses the phenomenon. "Sputter" ejects the cathode
surface atoms by making positive ions collide with the cathode surface (Target).

Sputtering Applications: -
CDs. -
Heat reflective window films.

Insulation
Vacuum insulation is a method to make it difficult to transfer heat to air or
materials with the property of conducting heat.

Insulation Applications: ・
Thermos bottles. ・
Electric keep warm jug. ・
Upper lids of rice cookers.

Cooling
Cooling is taking heat from an object and making it cooler than its surroundings. It is the same principle that
you feel cool after sprinkling water on the ground on a hot day in midsummer, or before we get a shot, the
place where we get a shot is disinfected with alcohol, and the area feels cooler.
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Cooling Applications:
- Cooling source for air conditioning.
- Storing vegetables and other foods.

PRESSURE REGIMES OF VACUUM

Rough Vacuum: Atm (1000mbar) - 10-2mbar

Rough vacuum is concerned with the removal of the bulk gas from the system. There are many, many gas
molecules in the chamber (right) and these interact with each other according to the laws of thermodynamics
in the manner of a viscous fluid. The gases are said to be in 'viscous flow'. Rough vacuum pumps are therefore
fluid flow pumps of the sort familiar to most mechanical engineers.

Process Vacuum: 10-2mbar - 10-4mbar

Many vacuum processes occur at a pressure of the order of millionths of an atmosphere. The chamber is first
evacuated to high vacuum and then back-filled with some process gas. At these pressures interactions
between molecules are still significant but the fluid flow characteristics of the gases breaks down and gas
collisions with the chamber walls also begin to affect the gases' behaviour. Now, in addition to the gases
flowing through the system, trace contaminant gases are desorbed from the chamber walls. Few pumps are
optimised for process pressure operation and a combination of rough and high vacuum pumps (in series) is
usually required to obtain the required conditions.
High Vacuum: 10-5mbar - 10-9mbar
The high vacuum regime is dominated by molecule - chamber wall collisions with the mean free path between
molecules - molecule collisions being far greater than the dimensions of the chamber. The residual gases
bounce around like marbles being shaken in a box and a completely different kind of pump is needed. Rather
than literally sucking the gases out of the system, the pump must wait, like a Venus Flycatcher, for gas
molecules to enter its throat. High vacuum pumps are therefore 'statistical capture' pumps. High vacuum pumps
cannot pump atmospheric pressure gas and cannot be exhausted to atmosphere. Rather, they are secondary
pumps and require either 'backing' or periodic 'regeneration' by a rough vacuum pump.

Ultra-High Vacuum: < 10-9mbar

Whereas the dominant species in high vacuum is usually water, ultra-high vacuum (UHV) is almost 100% dry
and Hydrogen is the most prevelant residual gas. Hydrogen is light and mobile and very difficult to pump,
requiring specialised UHV pumps and reducing the gas load from the chamber walls is paramount.

Vacuum Ranges

It is common in vacuum science to sub-divide pressure ranges into five individual regimes:

 Rough (or Low) vacuum (R): Atmospheric to 1 mbar

 Medium (or Fine) vacuum (MV): 1 to 10–3 mbar
 High vacuum (HV): 10–3 to 10–7 mbar
 Ultra-high vacuum (UHV): 10–7 to 10–12 mbar
 Extreme High Vacuum (XHV): greater than 10 -12 mbar.

These divisions are somewhat arbitrary, with various engineering disciplines using their own definitions, ie
chemists frequently refer to their spectrum of greatest interest (100 to 1 mbar), as an “intermediate vacuum”,
whilst some engineers may refer to a vacuum as “low pressure” or “negative pressure”.
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UNITS FOR VACUUM MEASUREMENT

According to SI (abbreviation from French Le Système. International d'Unités), the official unit for
measurement of vacuum gas pressure is pascal (symbol: Pa). Other commonly used pressure units for
stating the vacuum gas pressure are torr, micron and mbar.

Use of vacuum pressure units have regional, applicational and industry preference: torr is commonly used in
the United States, while mbar the preferred unit of measure in Europe. Pascal is commonly used in Asia.

Torr vacuum pressure unit

One torr (symbol: Torr) is approximately equal to one millimeter of mercury in a manometer at 0 °C. The unit
micron can be found in the vacuum industry and it’s derived from the unit torr where one milliTorr is equal to
one micron.

The unit torr is named after the Italian physicist Evangelista Torricelli and the unit torr is not an SI unit.

(psi = pounds per square inch)

Unit conversion Pa mbar micron psi mmHg (0°C)

1 Torr = 133.322 1.33322 1000 0.0193368 0.99999984

mbar vacuum pressure unit

The European vacuum industry prefers the metric millibar (symbol: mbar) unit for vacuum pressure. Millibar
is derived from the bar unit and the two units were originally introduced by the Norwegian meteorologist
Vilhelm Bjerknes. One mbar is equal to 100 Pa or one hPa.

In meteorology mbar was previously the preferred unit for atmospheric pressure level, but today the SI unit
Hectopascal is the official unit for meteorology science and weather forecasts.

Unit conversion Pa Torr micron (mTorr) psi mmHg (0°C)

1 mbar = 100.0 0.750062 750.061561 0.0145038 0.750061561

Pa vacuum pressure unit

Pascal is the official SI unit for vacuum pressure and consequently widely used in physical sciences. One pascal
is the force of one Newton per square meter acting perpendicular on a surface. Pascal is named after the French
mathematician, physicist and inventor Blaise Pascal.

Unit conversion mbar Torr micron (mTorr) psi mmHg (0°C)

1 Pa = 0.01 0.00750062 7.50061561 0.000145038 0.00750062

What is the effect of temperature on the relationship between pressure and the number of molecules
within a given vacuum system?
When the temperature of a particular system is increased, the molecules in the gas move faster, exerting a
greater pressure on the wall of the gas container. This in terms increases the pressure of the system. If the
temperature of the system is decreased, the pressure goes down.
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The Essential Parts of Any Vacuum

Vacuum cleaners have many parts working together to ensure proper cleaning for all your dusty surfaces.
What are the parts of a vacuum cleaner and what do they do?

Motor
Every vacuum has a heart, the part that keeps it running and this is the motor. Where is your vacuum cleaner’s
motor located? It is the heavy part of your vacuum attached to a fan where air is forced over to expel the
exhaust. There are many different suction and cleaning levels depend on the strength of your vacuum’s motor.
To help determine the cleaning capabilities, you should be aware of the power. Vacuum power is measured in
watts and has amp ratings that determine the amount of electrical current used while operating. Find a high
wattage, high amp vacuum and you will likely have the cleanest house on the block.

Internal Fan
The internal fan is located behind the rotating brush and works with it. It acts like a tour guide, constantly
guiding dirt and debris through the filter and into the dust bag.

Filter
Your vacuum filter is essential for separating heavy, solid objects from dust. Why is this important? Because
large objects can often break parts of your vacuum. It is extremely important to have a good filter. Fan blades
can get damaged and holes can occur in the dust bag if hard debris gets past the filter. The filter is like your
vacuum’s shield from a sword. You can choose which type of shield you want to use based on what you usually
use your vacuum for. There are 2 types of filters.

Post-motor filter:
This type of filter helps stop particles from entering into the air after being sucked up by your vacuum. Having
a post–motor filter allows the release of only clean air from the exhaust.

HEPA filter:
This filter captures almost 99.9% of particles, even the minutest ones so it is a great option for you if
you suffer from allergies. All those dust microns and pollen that make you sneeze and cough will get
trapped in a HEPA filter.
Pump Head
The pump head is the main body of the vacuum pump that contains the mechanism responsible for
creating the vacuum. It can be made of different materials depending on the application.
Inlet and Outlet Ports
The inlet and outlet ports are the openings where the pump is connected to the system and the
atmosphere, respectively.
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Vacuum Gauge
The vacuum gauge is a device that measures the pressure inside the system, allowing the user to adjust
the pump accordingly.

Power Source
Of course, there is the power source for your vacuum. This component is either in the form of a rechargeable
battery or an AC power cord that plugs into the wall. You definitely need a power source to turn your vacuum
on and off. The advantage to a battery-operated vacuum is the lightweight portability of the unit. However, for
bigger jobs, you may want to choose a vacuum with a continual source of power from a dedicated wall plug-
in to avoid draining the battery before you are finished cleaning.

How to Use Laboratory Vacuum Pumps

Laboratory vacuum pumps are essential tools used in various scientific processes, from vacuum filtration to
freeze-drying. They create a vacuum by removing air and other gases from a closed system to lower the
pressure inside, enabling the extraction, purification, or analysis of different substances. Using laboratory
vacuum pumps may seem intimidating at first, but with the right knowledge and techniques, it can be done
efficiently and safely. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to use laboratory
vacuum pumps.
Laboratory vacuum pumps are versatile tools that create a low-pressure environment inside a closed system,
allowing for various scientific processes. Different types are used depending on the application, and they
require specific knowledge and maintenance. Using correctly and safely is crucial for obtaining accurate results
and preventing accidents.

Types of Vacuum Pumps

There are different types of vacuum pumps used in laboratory applications. Some of the most common ones
are:
Rotary Vane Vacuum Pumps
Rotary vane vacuum pumps use a rotor with vanes that rotate inside a chamber, creating a vacuum by
trapping gas molecules and expelling them out of the chamber. They are widely used in chemistry and
biology laboratories for medium to high vacuum applications.
Diaphragm Vacuum Pumps
Diaphragm vacuum pumps use a flexible membrane that oscillates back and forth to create a vacuum
by compressing and expanding the gas inside the pump chamber. They are suitable for low to medium
vacuum applications and are preferred in applications where oil-free vacuum is required.
Scroll Vacuum Pumps
Scroll vacuum pumps use two spiral scrolls that interlock and rotate, compressing and expanding gas
to create a vacuum. They are ideal for cleanroom applications and can provide a dry and oil-free
vacuum.

Vacuum Pump Maintenance

Maintaining a vacuum pump is crucial for its proper functioning and longevity. Regular maintenance can
prevent pump failure, decrease downtime, and ensure accuracy in scientific experiments.

1. Check and change the oil regularly: Vacuum pumps that use oil require regular oil checks and
changes. Dirty or low oil levels can damage the pump and cause it to malfunction. Consult the user
manual for the recommended oil type and change frequency.
2. Clean the pump components: Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate inside the pump and reduce its
efficiency. Regularly clean the pump head, motor, and inlet and outlet ports using a soft brush or
cloth.
3. Inspect the pump for leaks: Leaks in the pump can cause a loss of vacuum pressure and affect the
results of experiments. Check for leaks by performing a leak test and fix any issues immediately.
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4. Replace worn-out parts: Vacuum pumps have parts that wear out over time, such as the vanes in
rotary vane pumps or the diaphragm in diaphragm pumps. Replace worn-out parts as soon as possible
to prevent pump failure.

Setting Up a Vacuum Pump

Before using it, it's essential to set it up correctly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Select the appropriate vacuum pump: Choose a vacuum pump that matches the application's
requirements, such as the required vacuum level, flow rate, and type of gas being removed.
2. Connect the pump to the system: Connect the pump to the system using hoses or tubing, ensuring a
tight seal. Use clamps or connectors to secure the connection.
3. Connect the vacuum gauge: Connect the vacuum gauge to the pump's inlet port to monitor the
pressure inside the system.
4. Turn on the pump: Turn on the pump and allow it to run for a few minutes to reach its operating
temperature and create a vacuum.

How to Use a Vacuum Pump for Filtration

Vacuum pumps are commonly used for vacuum filtration, which is the process of separating a solid from a
liquid using a filter. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Attach the filter to a Buchner funnel: Place the filter paper or membrane on top of the Buchner funnel
and secure it in place using a clamp.
2. Connect the funnel to the vacuum pump: Connect the Buchner funnel to the pump using a hose or
tubing, ensuring a tight seal.
3. Pour the liquid mixture onto the filter: Pour the liquid mixture onto the filter paper or membrane,
allowing the liquid to pass through and leaving the solid behind.
4. Apply vacuum: Turn on and apply a vacuum to the system, allowing the liquid to pass through the
filter more quickly.
5. Collect the filtrate: Collect the filtrate in a container and dispose of the solid.

How to Use a Vacuum Pump for Distillation

Vacuum pumps are also used for distillation, which is the process of separating two or more substances by
heating them and collecting their vapor. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Set up the distillation apparatus: Set up the distillation apparatus, including the flask, condenser, and
receiver, according to the specific procedure.
2. Connect: Connect the vacuum pump to the system, ensuring a tight seal.
3. Turn on the pump: Turn on and apply vacuum to the system.
4. Heat the mixture: Heat the mixture in the flask, allowing it to vaporize and condense in the
condenser.
5. Collect the distillate: Collect the distillate in the receiver and repeat the process as necessary.

How to Use a Vacuum Pump for Degassing

Vacuum pumps are also used for degassing, which is the process of removing gas from a liquid or solid
material. Here are the steps to follow:
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1. Prepare the material: Prepare the material by mixing or stirring it to ensure that any trapped gas is
released.
2. Place the material in a vacuum chamber: Place the material in a vacuum chamber, ensuring that it's
covered by the liquid or solid.
3. Connect the: Connect the vacuum pump to the chamber, ensuring a tight seal.
4. Apply vacuum: Turn on the and apply vacuum to the chamber, allowing the gas to escape from the
material.
5. Monitor the process: Monitor the process by observing the material and the vacuum gauge. Once the
desired level of degassing is achieved, turn off and release the vacuum.