What Is a Vacuum Generator?
A Vacuum Generator is a device that generates a vacuum.
A vacuum is a space in which no gas molecules exist, and the pressure is maintained at a level much lower than normal atmospheric pressure. Vacuum Generators are important devices used in physics and engineering when a vacuum is required.
Three types exist: ejectors, vacuum pumps, and vacuum blowers, each of which is used for different purposes. Among Vacuum Generators, ejectors can be used in remote or inconvenient locations because they require no motive power. Vacuum pumps and vacuum blowers, on the other hand, are motorized and can create a vacuum efficiently.
Uses of Vacuum Generators
Vacuum Generators, which are utilized in a variety of manufacturing sites, are used to support industrial processes in semiconductor manufacturing. In the automotive industry, they are indispensable for securely holding large parts when installing car bodies and glass, utilizing the principle of “suction” to adhere objects to surfaces.
Other applications include medical fields and food packaging familiar to our daily lives.
1. Semiconductor Manufacturing
Vacuum Generators are used in semiconductor manufacturing and other applications where high vacuum is required to produce minute parts. One application of Vacuum Generators is to adsorb objects by creating a high vacuum.
For example, in etching and deposition processes, advanced process control is possible by using suction to handle parts in order to precisely place minute parts.
2. Medical Device Manufacturing
High-quality, clean vacuum environments are required in the manufacture of medical devices. For example, Vacuum Generators are used in manufacturing blood analyzers and radiation therapy equipment. This minimizes the effects of contamination and gases inside the equipment and ensures accurate functioning.
3. Food Packaging
Vacuum packaging is often used to extend the shelf life and freshness of foods and products. For example, Vacuum Generators are indispensable devices used in vacuum packaging for keeping meat and vegetables fresh in supermarkets.
Principle of Vacuum Generators
The basic principle of Vacuum Generators is to reduce the pressure of a space by removing gas molecules. Used in a wide range of industries, these devices are essential for manufacturing electronic devices, controlling chemical reactions, simulating space, and operating vacuum tubes.
1. Ejector
Ejectors do not require a power source like pumps and compressors and are characterized by their simple and reliable mechanism. Vacuum is generated using the Venturi effect. The inside of the ejector has a partially constricted structure, and air, the driving fluid, passes through it at high speed to create a partial vacuum.
2. Vacuum Pump
Vacuum pumps generate a vacuum by removing air or gas and reducing the pressure inside a vessel. There are three ways to generate a vacuum: exhaust, adsorption, and diffusion.
The exhaust method uses mechanical or molecular pumps to expel gases and reduce pressure. Specifically, the vane rotates as the motor rotates, sealing the gas inside the casing as it is discharged.
The adsorption method uses an adsorbent to adsorb gas molecules and reduce the pressure in the space. The diffusion method reduces pressure by controlling the movement of gas molecules.
3. Vacuum Blower
A vacuum blower is a device that operates on the opposite principle of a vacuum pump. It has the ability to generate a vacuum using compressed air. By turning a motor, the built-in wings are rotated to take in and exhaust gas. This intake and exhaust process reduces the pressure inside the container and creates a vacuum.
How to Select a Vacuum Generator
When choosing a Vacuum Generator, it is important to consider several important factors:
1. Degree of Vacuum
The appropriate vacuum must be selected because the degree of vacuum required depends on the industry and application in which it is used.
2. Exhaust Velocity
Exhaust velocity is a measure of how much gas the equipment can handle and affects operating efficiency. If a high exhaust velocity is required, select an appropriate Vacuum Generator.
3. Durability and Maintainability
If long-term stable operation is required, it is important to select a product with high durability and easy maintenance.