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Vacuum Pumps

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Vacuum Pump Safety• Physical and Chemical Hazards

– Always vent pump exhaust

– Keep pump away from flammable chemicals or combustible material

• Paper and cardboard are good combustible material!!!

– DO NOT place a pump in an enclosed area

• Unventilated areas will cause heat and exhaust to build up!!!

http://www.utexas.edu/safety/ehs/lab/vacuum_pump_safety.html

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Vacuum Pump Safety

• Physical and Chemical Hazards

– Always close the valve between the pump and vacuum vessel before shutting off the pump

• This avoids oil from being sucked into the vacuum vessel

– Have a pan to catch oil drips from under the pump

• Depending on the size of the pump: Bake ware pans (aluminum or stainless steel) or plastic pans work well

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Vacuum Pump Safety• Maintenance

– Oil Change: Know how often each pump needs an oil change by checking the manual

• Every 3 months of operation, or once a year, etc.

• Check oil levels on the pump

– Keep Records: Should have records for each pump on dates when oil was changed, how much was removed, and how much was added

• Any used pump oil should be disposed of as hazardous waste

– Always Wear PPE: Safety glasses, lab coat, and gloves

4http://www.utexas.edu/safety/ehs/lab/vacuum_pump_safety.html

Maintenance Log

Date Type of Pump(Name)

Oil Removed

(mL)

Oil Added (mL)

10/23/13D90 -

mechanical pump

400 425