Which medical vacuum technology is right for your facility? I will try to briefly explain each technology with features and benefits of each. Hopefully this will give you a good understanding of which systems work better with the many different applications and why. Of course each system creates vacuum, so technically they will work in any application. The focus here is to determine which technology works best for specific applications.
Oil-Less Rotary Vane systems are perfect for small facilities because of their small footprint and low maintenance requirements. In addition, the system is compatible as a waste anesthetic gas disposal unit.
Lubricated Rotary Vane systems are capable of producing enough vacuum for small and large facilities; however it would typically be used for non-anesthetizing applications due to the use of oil as a lubricant. With regularly scheduled oil changes as per the manufacturer's recommendations, these systems are very reliable.
Liquid Ring Camel systems utilize some unique design features, such as the world's best liquid ring pumps made by Nash/Elmo. This system design also incorporates a reservoir which, when full, contains enough water capacity to run the entire system for 48 hours without fresh water, should the supply water cease unexpectedly. If water is not a concern, this unit is quite possibly the most dependable technology still available today.
Claw systems are good for small to large facilities. These systems typically require very low maintenance due to the contact-less operation. The design is very efficient, and maintenance is as simple as changing gear lube and inlet filters annually.
The Variable Speed Drive Claw system is the same technology as the regular claw system with the ability to create vacuum using variable speed technology. Since the VSD matches the motor speed to the system demand, the system is extremely efficient and saves energy while reducing system wear. Instead of the standard start / stop method of operation, the VSD ramps up to meet the system demand and maintains a more consistent vacuum level. If you want to go green, go VSD!
By:
Jay D’Agostino
NITC/ASSE 6020 Medical Gas Inspector
