When it comes to the components of a rotary vane vacuum pump, it comprises of a housing, a rotor, and a series of vanes that can be either lubricated or dry. Among these parts, the rotor is the only component that moves continuously. The working chamber is divided into two compartments by the moving rotors and vanes. Most of these pumps are equipped with an inlet valve as a safety valve feature. They come both in single-stage and two-stage variations.
The operating principle of the rotary vane vacuum pump is based on the creation of centrifugal force produced by the rotor movement and the development of compression cells. The fluid or gas is being forced into the suction chamber where it will be sealed by a vane and compressed until the ambient pressure forces it out of the exit valve. The major benefit of using this kind of pump is its ability to handle even thin liquid at relatively high pressure. Moreover, the oil-lubricated version works very quietly for smooth operation.
Rotary vane vacuum pump is also easier to maintain with the working vanes wearing down over time of constant use. Once this happens, they have to be replaced, especially when their length gets shorter to ¼ of an inch when they’re new. Also, the bearings may need replacement if they work insufficiently or damaged while worn seals must be fixed as soon as possible to prevent it from resulting in total pump failure.