Amico NFPA Triplex RVL Modular Stack Mount - Manual (Page 6)

Amico Source Equipment
Note on Sizing Methods:
All sizing methods are only approximations and should be used judiciously. If an existing vacuum plant is being
replaced, the operating characteristics of that vacuum pump can be an important gauge of likely future use. For
example, if an existing 5 HP. pump provides an ample amount of medical suction, but the sizing table yields much
larger requirements; it may be suitable to use a smaller compromise unit in preference rather than to simply rely on
the results from the Amico Sizing Guide.
7.3.4 Altitude Adjustment
If a pump is to be operated at higher elevations, the peak calculated demand from Figure 1 should be multiplied
by the appropriate correction factor. This method of correction assumes upsizing the pump to hold as close to
the standard vacuum level (19inHgV) as possible and represents the ratio of ACFM at sea level vs. the ACFM at the
altitude. (See Figure 2).
Note A: Do this calculation after calculating for any future expansion. Pumps may have to be oversized to
compensate for altitude.
Note B: This table is provided for informational purposes only. It is not a mandatory part of this standard. The health
care facility should determine its own requirements in consultation with its technical and clinical staff,
consulting engineer and equipment supplier.
7.3.5 “Future Expansion” Compensation
The notion of adding capacity now for any future requirements is wise but extreme caution is also advised. It is
common to see very badly oversized vacuum systems which were initially sized to accommodate an expansion that
never occurred or that was scaled back and was not compulsory after all. In addition to the waste of investment, it
generates problems associated with the operation of the system. The best method in preparing for an anticipated
expansion is to opt for a plant which is adequate for the present need in a duplex or triplex system but can also be
upsized for future need by simply adding additional pumps as required.
Altitude Normal Barometric Pressure (Inches Hg) Multiplier Used for
Required SCFM (Hg)
Figure 2: Altitude Adjustment Chart Multiplie
Sea Level Feet (Meters) 760mmHg (29.92”) 1.00
1000 ft. (305 m) 733mmHg (28.86”) 1.04
2000 ft. (609 m) 707mmHg (27.82”) 1.08
3000 ft. (900 m) 681mmHg (26.82”) 1.12
7000 ft. (2133 m) 587mmHg (23.09”) 1.30
4000 ft. (1219 m) 656mmHg (25.84”) 1.16
9000 ft. (2743 m) 543 mmHg (21.93”) 1.40
6000 ft. (1828 m) 609mmHg (23.98”) 1.25
500 ft. (152 m) 747mmHg (29.39”) 1.02
1500 ft. (457 m) 720mmHg (28.33”) 1.06
2500 ft. (762 m) 694mmHg (27.32”) 1.10
3500 ft. (1067 m) 669mmHg (26.33”) 1.14
8000 ft. (2438 m) 565mmHg (22.23”) 1.35
5000 ft. (1525 m) 633mmHg (24.90”) 1.20
10000 ft. (3048 m) 523 mmHg (20.58”) 1.45
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