Essential Role of Vacuum Gauges in a Vacuum Lifting Machine

A vacuum lifting machine is a mechanical device that uses suction cups and vacuum pressure to lift and move heavy objects, such as glass sheets, metal sheets and even sacks. This solution helps to improve efficiency, reduce the risk of injury for employees, and minimize the chance of damage to the workpieces being lifted.

In a vacuum lifter, there are several important components including suction cups designed for lifting glass, a vacuum generator to create the vacuum, a vacuum gauge to measure the pressure, a vacuum filter to remove impurities from the air, and vacuum distributor to deliver the vacuum.

Pressure is one of the key index in a vacuum system

Pressure is a crucial factor in vacuum handling systems as it determines the ability of the system to hold and manipulate objects through suction force. It is used to establish the necessary level of vacuum for secure object handling and to monitor the performance of the system. A proper understanding and control of pressure is essential for safe and efficient operation of vacuum handling systems.

The most commonly used units of vacuum pressure are the Pascal (Pa), Torr, and millimeter of mercury (mmHg).

• Pascal (Pa): this is the standard unit of pressure in the International System of Units (SI).
• Millibar (mbar): This unit is commonly used in meteorology to measure atmospheric pressure.
• Torr: this unit of pressure is named after the Italian physicist Evangelista Torricelli and is commonly used in vacuum technology. One torr is equivalent to 1/760th of an atmosphere.
• Inches of Mercury (inHg): this unit is commonly used in the US to measure atmospheric pressure.

Importance of a vacuum gauge

Vacuum gauge, also called manometer gauge, is one of the most essential component of a vacuum lifting system. It provides critical information on the level of vacuum pressure in the suction cups and vacuum reservoir, which is key to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the lifting operation. The vacuum pressure gauge is responsible for monitoring the level of vacuum pressure in real-time, allowing the operator to adjust the vacuum pressure as necessary.

In a vacuum lifting system, the vacuum cups must generate enough vacuum pressure to securely hold the object being lifted. If the vacuum pressure is too low, the suction cups may not be able to maintain a secure gripping force on the object, leading to the dropping of the workpiece, and increasing the risk of injury or damage to the object. On the other hand, if the vacuum pressure is too high, it can cause excessive stress on the suction cups, resulting in deformation, cracking, or tearing of the cups. Furthermore, the high vacuum pressure can also cause damage to the products being lifted, such as breaking or cracking.

As a result, it is important to monitor the vacuum pressure in real-time and adjust it as necessary to ensure the safety and efficiency of the lifting operation. The information provided by vacuum pressure gauge allows the operator to monitor the vacuum pressure and make any necessary adjustments.

Typically, the desired vacuum pressure range in a vacuum lifting system is between 60%-85% of atmospheric pressure. The manometer gauge displays the vacuum pressure in units of inches of mercury (inHg) or millibar (mbar). The vacuum pressure can be adjusted by the vacuum regulator on vacuum pump. In a vacuum blower, the pressure can be changed via changing the rotation speed with variable-frequency drives.

Digital and Analog Vacuum Pressure Gauge

There are two main types of vacuum gauges, a digital one and an analog one. Different types of vacuum gauge are designed for different scenario and requirements of the specific application.

• Analog vacuum pressure gauges: analog vacuum gauges use a needle to display the vacuum pressure on a dial. They are often simpler and less expensive than digital gauges and are well-suited for basic monitoring applications where accuracy is not critical. Analog gauges are also a good choice for applications where ease of reading is important, as the needle provides a clear visual indication of the vacuum pressure.

• Digital vacuum pressure gauges: digital vacuum gauges use electronic displays or signal to show the vacuum pressure in numerical form. They offer higher accuracy and precision than analog gauges. Digital gauges also provide more information or customized settings, such as the current vacuum pressure and the maximum or minimum vacuum pressure during a given time period. They are also typically easier to interface with other systems or devices, such as vacuum pumps or control systems, which makes them well-suited for more complex or automated applications.

How to install a manometer gauge properly on a vacuum lifting machine? 

Installing a vacuum manometer properly is critical to ensure accurate readings and prevent leakage of vacuum. Here are the main steps:

1. Site selection: choose a location that provides easy accessibility for reading and a clear line of sight to the gauge. Avoid installing the vacuum gauge on the tank since it would easily break the stricture and cause potential leakage of vacuum.
2. Mounting: securely mount the manometer to the designated surface using suitable hardware. Normally waterproofing airtight tape is required on the thread for best air sealing.
3. Tubing connection: connect the vacuum source to the manometer inlet port using a suitable tubing of the correct size and material to prevent leaks and ensure accurate readings.
4. Calibration: calibrate the manometer as per the manufacturer’s specifications, usually by adjusting the zero point to atmospheric pressure.
5. Testing and connection verification: test the manometer by applying vacuum pressure and verify the accuracy of the readings. Secure all connections to prevent leaks if required.

To conclude, the vacuum gauge is a critical component of a vacuum lifting system as it provides up-to-date pressure data on the level of vacuum pressure in the suction cups. By monitoring the vacuum pressure, the operator can ensure the safety and efficiency of the lifting operation, and prevent accidents and damage to the object being lifted.

EUROTECH is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and support, and our team is available at your convenience to assist you in selecting the most optimal and comprehensive solution for your specific vacuum handling system needs, ensuring optimal performance and results.