Vacuum pump performance

[johngerhart]

In our compounding operation , we are beginning to experience vacuum pressure spikes which are effecting product quality . Does anyone know of someone who is good at diagnosing the issues . We have a list of things to review but need a resource to help

 

[rbcoulter]

Is this a vacuum problem related to the materials in the process and/or a mechanical problem with the vacuum generating equipment?

 

[johngerhart]

vacuum pump performance at generating vacuum has dropped for 25 to 20 inches and the system is sensitive to spikes !

 

[rbcoulter]

Try isolating the vacuum generating device from the process (maybe on an empty vessel) and see if the spikes occur. If so, the problem is probably not the vacuum device.

Make a list of things that have changed around the time the problem occurred. For example, were changes made in the formulas? Were equipment changes made?
Did the problem occur in the past? If so, what conditions were known then? Are their vessels/equipment in your plant that don't have vacuum pressure problems? If so, how are they different?

 

[nbucska]

I assume the spikes consist of temporarily increased
pressure.

Try to capture and analyze the output of the vacuum pump:
Is it air or gas/vapor from the process ? <nbucska@pcperipherals.com>

 

[rbcoulter]

I meant to say that if the problem occurs on the empty vessel then the vacuum device IS probably the problem.

 

[rush]

There are a lot of factors to consider before offering any suggestions. The typical vacuum/pressure range, normal RGA analysis, piping size and components, layout of valves and testing ports, diagnostic equipment available, etc. If you can post this info here, some general suggestions on a starting point might be useful.

If you can't post any detailed process info because of proprietary considerations, I would be willing to sign an NDA and then offer some general diagnostic approaches.

Vacuum is a strange animal and the absolute pressure ranges and chemical components change the behaviors greatly. One technique will not help in all processes.

rushmwr@yahoo.com