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Taking care of your equipment in cold weather
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| This time of year we’re reminded of the effect of the cold weather on our roads and transport
networks. But something that is often overlooked is the effect of the cold on other equipment –
especially vacuum pumps.
Rotary vane vacuum pumps, the most common type for freeze drying applications, are oil filled.
At lower temperatures oil becomes increasingly viscous. The more viscous the oil, the harder the motor
has to work to turn the pump and the slower it will run. With the motor running harder it will also
need to draw more current, which can cause increased “electrical wear” of the motor windings and
brushes. This can shorten the motor’s life, or even burn out starter components.
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Colder conditions cause the oil in vacuum pumps to become viscous.
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Fortunately the solution is simple: turn up the heat.
Most equipment manufacturers will state in the manual what the minimum operating temperature.
For vacuum pumps this is typically in the region of 12-14°C, although 18-23°C is a preferred ambient
condition.
In cases where the equipment is situated in a room that cannot be heated and is temporarily
subject to low temperature start-up conditions, small heater jackets, somewhat like electric blankets,
will warm up your oil. These are available from many equipment and scientific supply companies. A hot
air gun could also be used for a few minutes prior to starting the pump. Failing that, everyday household
hot water bottles or hair dryers have also proven sufficient to provide some warmth. In cases where
pump start up is likely to frequently occur below the advised minimum then special Arctic oil SHC224
is available – and particularly recommended for small pumps ( with less than 8m3hr-1 ).
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Other news this month:
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