I. Smoke and Oil Spraying from Rotary Vane Vacuum Pumps: This refers to smoke or oil spraying from the exhaust port of a rotary vane vacuum pump during operation.
1. Smoke: If smoke occurs just as the pump starts running, it's normal. However, prolonged smoke is abnormal. Solution: Smoke indicates that there is a problem with the pump's inlet, including pipes, valves, and containers. Once leaks are detected and repaired, the smoke will stop.
2. Oil spraying indicates numerous leaks outside the air inlet, or even that the air inlet is exposed to the atmosphere. Solution: Seal the pump's air inlet and run the pump. If oil spraying stops, there is a leak. Also, check the exhaust valve for damage and replace any faulty valves.
II. Decreased vacuum level in rotary vane vacuum pumps: This refers to a decrease in the measured vacuum level of the rotary vane vacuum pump compared to the factory specifications or previous operating levels. The causes of low vacuum are as follows.
1. The oil passages inside the pump are blocked or obstructed, resulting in insufficient oil levels in the pump chamber. Solution: Check the oil passages for blockages and add vacuum pump oil of the same type.
2. The clearance between the parts has increased. This is caused by dust or other contaminants in the gas being pumped over a long period, leading to increased clearance between the vanes and stator due to wear. Solution: Check if the clearance is too large and replace the parts if necessary.
3. The rotary vane vacuum pump oil used this time is a different grade than the original. Different grades of vacuum pump oil have different saturated vapor pressures, resulting in different effects. Solution: Replace with the correct vacuum pump oil according to the product's model and specifications.
4. The temperature of the gas being pumped may be too high. Solution: Lower the temperature of the gas being pumped, or add a suitable heat exchanger.
5. Another reason for low vacuum is the vacuum pump oil itself, such as emulsified and discolored oil, or excessively dirty oil. Solution: Drain all the vacuum pump oil from the pump, replace it with the same type of vacuum pump oil, and ensure that water vapor and impurities in the gas being pumped do not enter the pump.
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