Some vacuum tank manufacturers make vacuum tank components in solid steel, while others make them in PVC or polyethylene. Solid steel vacuum tank lines come in single and two-stage vacuum tanks that use high-pressure versions to maintain higher pressure levels during the vacuum cycle operation. Two-stage vacuum tank units make vacuum tank systems more affordable.
For industrial applications, vacuum tanks made in PVC or polyethylene with stainless steel linings are used. These materials have many benefits over the traditional metallic vacuum tanks. The most noticeable benefit is the absence of the potential health hazards associated with certain metals used in vacuum tanks. Polyethylene and PVC vacuum tanks are also more resistant to corrosion than metallic vacuum tanks.
Pumping vacuum pumps do not always need to be contained in a vacuum tank or hopper-type units. Some vacuum pumps are so small that they can be moved around freely. Pumping motors that attach to vacuum tubing inside vacuum tanks are a common form of moving the pump. These motors allow the pump to be portable and allows the vacuum tank to be emptied without disturbing surrounding equipment.
To monitor vacuum pressure, the vacuum tank’s vacuum pressure gauge should be properly installed. This gauge shows the amount of vacuum produced by the pump, regardless of its position. To read the gauge properly, place the gauge close to the appropriate valve, such as the bleed valve, and mark the gauge to indicate low pressure and high vacuum. Marking the gauge to indicate high vacuum and low pressure will help you when you need to repair or replace the vacuum tank pump.
A vacuum tank’s low-pressure warning light is usually on one or both sides of the tank. It is turned on by external pressure. The pressure gauge allows you to determine when the vacuum tank pump is drawing air into the tank. If you hear a high internal pressure, the vacuum tank might be leaking. Turn on the low-pressure warning light and inspect the vacuum tank for leaks.
To ensure optimum performance of your vacuum tank, it is important to follow truck tank manufacturers’ maintenance guidelines. Some vacuum tank manufacturers recommend cleaning the tank at least once a year. Tank oil and a vacuum tank cleaner are useful for cleaning the external areas of steel tanks. Besides, some tank manufacturers recommend electrostatic charging, which may be used to extend the life of some stainless steel tanks. Charging should be done before any driving or operating procedures occur, to ensure the longest possible time between cleaning.
Another maintenance regimen includes a light cleaning of the vacuum tank liner. This helps prevent rust buildup, which weakens the vacuum pump. Oil-free liner locks the vacuum pump more tightly and protects against vacuum tank leaks. Rotary vane cleaners help remove buildup from dust particles and metal shavings. These cleaners require an oil-free rag or cotton paper before use. Oil-free cleaners are available in various brands and models, including Duroborv, Kenmore, and Nilfisk.