Service V-log - How to choose the right vacuum pump oil?
November 15, 2024
Welcome to episode 1 of our Leybold Service V-logs. In this vlog we cover:
Why oil is important to your pump’s performance
The key factors to consider when choosing vacuum pump oil
The various types of oil
The mixing of vacuum pump oil
The right oil for your application
Dive right in and watch the different sections of the episode to get a full guide on vacuum pump oil in under 8 minutes.
Why vacuum pump oil is essential for your pump’s performance
Vacuum pump oil is the lifeblood of your vacuum pump: it lubricates, cools and seals. A vacuum pump is designed to remove gas molecules from a system, so the oil inside the pump ensures smooth and efficient operation. These is how oil work inside the pump:
Lubrication: oil reduces the friction between moving parts, protecting components against wear and tear.
Sealing: the oil in the pump creates a seal against air being drawn in.
Cooling: oil helps in evenly distributing heat throughout the pump, preventing overheating.
In conclusion, oil is essential to keep your pump running smoothly. But not all types of oil are suitable for your pump. What’s more: the wrong type of oil can deteriorate your pump’s performance, or even damage your pump or system. In the next part of this vlog we’ll tell you how to choose the best oil for your pump.
Key factors to consider when choosing vacuum pump oil
There’s a wide variety of vacuum pump technologies and there are almost as many types of oil. Here are some critical factors to consider when selecting the right oil:
1. Low vapor pressure: the oil should have a low vapor pressure to prevent evaporation under low-pressure conditions inside the pump.
2. Water content: minimal water content is necessary to avoid any adverse chemical reactions.
3. Stable Viscosity: a stable viscosity ensures consistent lubrication, regardless of temperature fluctuations.
4. Lubrication quality: excellent lubrication properties are needed to reduce friction and mechanical wear.
5. Thermal stability: the oil should be resistant to breaking down under high temperatures.
For example, in a rotary vane SOGEVAC pump, the oil forms a protective film that reduces friction, allowing the pump to run for thousands of hours without overheating. This is why it’s essential to choose oil formulated with high-quality base stocks and minimal additives for maximum purity and performance.
Another top tip: always use genuine vacuum pump oil, recommended by the manufacturer. Inferior oil can cause all kinds of troubles such as contamination, oxidation, and thermal breakdown. In fact, using anything else but genuine oil may affect your warranty claim if your pump gets damaged.
Vacuum pump oil types: an overview
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to vacuum pump oil. Different applications and processes require specific oils to ensure optimal performance. Let’s explore the most common types of vacuum pump oils:
1. Mineral oil
- Suitable for applications with vapors and less demanding processes.
- Offers good thermal and chemical resistance.
- Affordable option but may not perform well in harsh environments.
2. Ester oil
- Known for its high thermal resistance, up to 200°C.
- Excellent for handling process residue but not ideal for use with acids or humidity.
- Retains lubrication capabilities under extreme conditions.
3. Special synthetic oil
- Ideal for applications requiring chemical resistance and operation in extreme temperatures.
- Offers durability in challenging conditions where other oils may break down.
4. PFPE oil (perfluoropolyether)
- Composed of carbon, fluorine, and oxygen, providing excellent stability against chemicals and oxidation.
- Commonly used in processes with high oxygen concentrations or plasma applications.
5. Diffusion pump oil
- Designed for ultra-low vapor pressure and high thermal performance.
- Refined for optimal performance in diffusion pumps.
Each oil type has unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications. Read more on our LEYBONOL product pages. Or try out our oil finder to get a quick link to the best oil for your pump.
Mixing vacuum pump oil and why you should avoid it
We know it’s tempting: every type of oil has its benefits, so mixing them up sounds like a good idea. But even when a vacuum pump could run on various types of oil, it’s never a good idea to mix them together.
For example, PFPE oil should never come into contact with mineral oil, as even a tiny amount can destroy its chemical structure. Switching oils, especially from one type to another, may require a complete disassembly and cleaning of your pump in a service center.
Do you have questions about switching from one oil type to another? Then contact one of our service experts for the best course of action.
Choosing the right vacuum pump oil for your application
Your vacuum pump’s application also dictates which type of oil is most suitable to keep your equipment in excellent health. For example, general application can use mineral oil, while chemically intensive processes require PFPE oil.
For help in finding the right oil for your specific pump, Leybold offers an oil finder tool that can guide you. You can also reach out to your service representative for personalized assistance.
Watch the full episode here
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