VACUUBRAND RC 5 - Manual (Page 12)

Documents are only to be used and distributed completely and unchanged. It is strictly the users´ responsibility to check carefully
the validity of this document with respect to his product. Manual-no.: 99 78 31 / 20/12/2006
page 12 of 28
Note: Attainable ultimate vacuum is limited by the properties of the vacuum vessel
(leak-tightness, cleanliness and degassing of the inner surfaces), degassing of sub-
stances used and the condition of the pump oil (cleanliness, content of hydrocarbons
with higher partial pressures).
When pumping condensable vapours (water vapour, solvents,...), open gas ballast
valve by turning gas ballast cap.
☞ Arrow must point toward word ”Gasballast” on housing.
☞ Do not pump vapours until pump has reached operating temperature. Install isola-
tion valve in inlet line and open approx. 30 minutes after pump has been started.
Check maximum vapour inlet pressure. Pump can operate continuously at any pres-
sure lower than the appropriate maximum inlet pressure for vapour. Avoid sudden
vapour surges when evacuating commences (large inner surfaces, large-volume
vacuum vessel).
☞ Use flow-control valve in inlet line, open valve gradually.
Operating pump when condensating in filter and separator catch pots:
Observe level of condensate in catch pots of separator and oil mist filter.
☞ Do not permit condensate in the inlet-side separator to rise as far as the bottom of
the separator tube. Do not permit condensate in the oil mist filter to reach the
bottom of the filter.
Before level rises too high, drain condensate by opening drain plug in transparent
catch pot. Shut down and vent the pump beforehand.
☞ If the filter is clogged, oil mist might be visible in the oil filter housing, or the filter
might be discoloured or exhibit deposits on the inside.
☞ The separated oil can not be reused unless it is free of contaminates and
discolouration. Dispose of the condensate according with regulations.
If the filter element is clogged, disassemble oil mist filter and replace element.
☞ Under certain circumstances, clogged filter elements can be cleaned by using
suitable solvents. However, it is safer to use a new filter element (see section ”ac-
cessories”).
Important: Observe applicable regulations when disposing used oil and chemicals
which may be contaminated by pumped chemicals.
Pumping chemically aggressive or toxic gases and vapours:
☞ Implement special protective measures for pump and environment.
If the thermodynamic conditions peculiar to the application are such that vapours
could condense in the rotary vane pump, install a cold trap (see section ”accesso-
ries”).
☞ Avoid explosive conditions when compressing explosive and flammable substances/
mixtures.
Important: The gas ballast of the diaphragm pump is permanently connected to the
system.
☞ Wait until pump reaches operating temperature before connecting it to vacuum
system.
☞ Before shutting down pump, allow it to run on with gas ballast valve initially open,
and then with gas ballast valve closed.
☞ Protect pump against exposure to fluids and dust.
☞ The pump requires regular inspection and maintenance.