4
1.0 INTRODUCTION
NOVATEC VPDB Series Vacuum Pumps are designed to
pneumatically convey plastic pellets or powders in a
vacuum conveying system. It does this by creating a
vacuum to “pull” air through the piping system. Plastic
pellets or powders are introduced into the moving air
stream in various ways, including through the use of
probes, pick-up tubes, and rotary air locks. The VPDB is
used in conjunction with vacuum chamber station valves,
etc. to form the conveying system, which is controlled
with either Master Control or Distributed Control Panels.
Several vacuum power units may be designed into the
system as required. Vacuum conveying systems typically
distribute material from silos, surge bins, blenders, or
drying hoppers to processing machinery.
2.0 WARNING
Always disconnect power before servicing. Only qualified
technicians should service, maintain, or repair the VPDB.
Before using this equipment, read in detail the product
bulletins and other information found in this manual.
A safe installation is necessary before operating the
equipment. The instructions should be understood and
followed before installing or operating the equipment.
3.0
OPERATING LIMITATIONS
3.1 Operating At Higher Altitudes
—
3000 ft above sea level or more.
Atmospheric pressure is lower at higher elevations, and
as a result, the compression of air by the pump requires
more work for vacuum conveying. In these higher
altitude applications, the pressure relief valve of VPDB
pumps must be adjusted on site to prevent the pump
from damaging itself or the motor by attempting to com-
press air of reduced density to an unsafe level. Contact
Novatec Engineering or Service at the number on the
front cover of this manual when operating the pump at
3000 ft or higher elevation.
Blower exhaust temperature and motor cooling are a
function of both vacuum level and elevation. Blower
exhaust temperature must not exceed 300°F to avoid
premature blower failure.
Decreased motor FLA limits may require alternate over-
load protection or increased frame size/Hp.
3.2 Seek Time
Excessive starting and stopping of the pump will reduce
blower and motor life and void the warranty. Seek Time is a
control parameter that allows your pump to operate for short
periods in vacuum break mode (no vacuum loading) while the
system control searches for new demands.
Using the Seek Time feature, pump starts must be limited
to 12 per hour to prevent premature failure. The
minimum Seek Time for a pump is 180 seconds to
prevent exceeding 12 starts per hour. Optimum Seek
Time may be set dependent upon pump capacity,
utilization, number of stations, capacity of each vacuum
chamber, and individual station throughputs. (See your
control panel instruction manual for information on Seek
Time)
4.0 UNPACKING
Caution should be exercised to see that the equipment is
not handled roughly. The crate must be removed
carefully. The machine must not be used to pry against
Do not pry against the machine when removing the
crate. The vacuum power unit is usually shipped
completely assembled and requires no further attention
prior to installation. Note any shipping damage on
delivery receipt and report immediately to trucking
company.
5.0 GENERAL INSPECTION
When the unit is unpacked, make a visual inspection
looking for missing parts or damage that may have
occurred during shipment. Report any missing parts
to Novatec immediately. All electrical and mechanical
connections should be checked for tightness, as vibration
during transit may cause them to loosen.
IMPORTANT: Before placing the vacuum pump into
service, be sure oil has been put in the pump, as oil may
have been drained following factory quality control test-
ing. See page 11 for lubrication guidelines.
Note that replacement blowers are shipped without oil.
