Choosing vacuum pump oil
Vacuum pump fluid is a working part, not a consumable afterthought. It seals clearances, lubricates vanes and bearings, carries heat out and sets the pump's ultimate pressure — a pump running degraded oil loses vacuum long before it makes noise. Mineral oils suit general duty; double-distilled and synthetic hydrocarbons give lower vapour pressure; PFPE fluids are inert and are the only safe choice for oxygen, ozone and aggressive chemistry; silicone and polyphenyl ether fluids serve diffusion pumps.
Match the fluid to the pump and to the process, in that order, and never mix chemistries — PFPE and hydrocarbon oils are not compatible and a changeover needs a full flush. Watch the practical numbers: vapour pressure at operating temperature, viscosity grade, oxidation stability and fill volume. Change intervals depend on what you pump, not on the calendar: solvents, water and particulates shorten them dramatically, and an inlet filter or a condensate trap pays for itself.
We supply Taixing-branded grades and OEM-compatible fluids for rotary vane, Roots, screw and diffusion pumps, together with the filters, oil-mist eliminators and drain kits that go with an oil change.
96 models listed, with specifications and quotation within 24 h.
FAQ
Which oil grade does my pump need?
Follow the pump manual: viscosity grade is matched to the pump's clearances and speed, and using a thinner or thicker oil costs you ultimate pressure or shaft power. Direct-drive rotary vane pumps generally take a lighter grade than belt-driven ones. If you have lost the manual, send the pump model.
Mineral, synthetic or PFPE — what is the difference?
Mineral oil is the cheapest and fine for clean air. Synthetic (PAO, ester) resists oxidation and higher temperature and lasts longer. PFPE (perfluoropolyether) is chemically inert and non-flammable — it is what you use with oxygen service or aggressive process gases, at many times the price.
Can I mix oil grades or brands?
Do not mix chemistries — mineral with PFPE in particular can form a gel and seize the pump. Mixing brands within the same chemistry and grade is tolerable when topping up, but at a full change drain, flush and refill with one product.
How do I dispose of used vacuum pump oil?
As hazardous waste through a licensed handler — used vacuum oil carries whatever the process put into it, which can include solvents, acids or particulates. Oil from a semiconductor or chemical process should never go into a general waste-oil drum without checking what is in it.