Scientific research, laboratory processes and a number of products depend on vacuum technology. To create the conditions needed for experimentation and product development, institutions may rely on a number of modern vacuum methods.
Positive Displacement Vacuum Pumps
Positive displacement pumps, like Torricelli’s first vacuum created with a tube of mercury, are still used today. Modern scientific vacuum methods that rely on displacing a volume of matter (atmospheric air) from a chamber include:
- Diaphragm pump
- Dry scroll pump
- Dry screw pump (Archimedes screw)
- Lobe pump
These vacuum methods are suitable for achieving rough to moderate vacuum ranges.
Advanced Vacuum Methods
Evangelista Torricelli’s mercury tube was a landmark discovery in vacuum technology, but scientists have identified a number of other methods in addition to positive displacement for evacuating the space in a container to create a stronger vacuum. These methods include:
- Turbomolecular pump
- Diffusion pump
- Cryopump
- Ion pump
Turbomolecular and ion pumps are the vacuum methods most often used to achieve pressures in the UHV range.
Finding the Best Vacuum Method for Your Application
When it comes to selecting the vacuum method best suited for your experiment or application, there is more to consider than the maximum vacuum range. Other practical considerations include:
- The necessity of backing or fore pump
- How the pump (and vacuum pressure) will affect the chamber
- Maintenance schedule and available resources for vacuum maintenance
- Up-front and operating costs
- Utility requirements
- Sensitivity to chamber contamination (wet or dry)
The experts at Scientific Vacuum Sales & Support, Inc. in Albuquerque, NM can help you determine which vacuum method will best serve your needs. We offer free consultations and free estimates for all materials and labor for custom vacuum chamber builds. Contact us to get started.