A central vacuum system supplies several points of use from a shared vacuum source. To size it properly, start with the pressure required at each machine and the demand that occurs at the same time. Adding together the largest flow figures on individual pump labels is not enough.
When does central vacuum make sense?
Consider a shared system when several machines need a compatible vacuum supply and a common distribution line is practical. It can move pumps away from workstations and bring maintenance into one location. The design still has to account for pipework losses, changing demand and what happens if a pump is unavailable.
Separate sources may be preferable where processes need very different pressures, gases must not mix, or one process could contaminate the others. A central system is a design choice, not an automatic energy saving.
Five details that determine the specification
- Working pressure at the process. State absolute or relative pressure and identify the most demanding point of use. The reading at the pump can differ from the reading at the machine.
- Simultaneous demand. List the users that operate together, normal running flow and short demand peaks. For evacuation duties, include vessel volume, starting pressure, target pressure and cycle time.
- Distribution pipework. Give approximate lengths, internal diameters, branches, valves and filters. These influence the available flow and pressure at each user.
- Process conditions. Describe gases, vapours, moisture, particles and temperature. Identify duties that should remain isolated.
- Continuity and control. Explain allowable downtime, standby requirements, control interfaces and whether maintenance must take place while production continues.
Where a receiver helps—and where it does not
A receiver provides a buffer volume for changes in demand. It does not create extra continuous pumping capacity. Its size and the control pressure band must be considered together with the pump and consumption pattern.
The MIL’S INDUSVAC EVISA brochure describes automatic plants using lubricated rotary vane pumps, with 250 or 500 litre receiver options in the documented range. It describes single-pump and other configurations and a FLEXO option for intermittent consumption. These are range options: confirm the receiver, pump, controls and accessories included in the particular quotation.
Specify gauges and controls with the system
| What you need to do | Equipment to discuss | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Read local plant vacuum | Industrial vacuum dial gauge | Pressure reference, range, viewing position and process compatibility. |
| Send a pressure signal to controls | Vacuum transducer | Sensor principle, output, supply and controller scaling. |
| Switch at a pressure threshold | Electronic vacuum switch | Switching points, hysteresis, electrical rating and the existing control sequence. |
| Document measurement performance | Vacuum gauge calibration | Relevant operating points, measuring chain and certificate requirements. |
A new sensor is not automatically a direct replacement for the original system control. Check the complete interface before changing instruments or settings. Our vacuum gauge selection guide explains the difference between pressure reference, measurement principle and output.
Compare the pump and system families
Start with the INDUSVAC 1E 65.R system as an example of a packaged central vacuum source, then browse the MIL’S family catalogue for other capacities and arrangements. Use the EVISA versus SIRELLA comparison when reviewing lubricated rotary vane and dry claw technology. Match the operating pressure and gas load before comparing costs.
Central vacuum system questions
Will centralising vacuum reduce our electricity bill?
That depends on demand, controls, pump performance and distribution losses. Compare measured use over a representative production cycle and include servicing and consumables. A motor rating or the number of pumps removed does not establish the saving.
Can we use the existing gauges?
Possibly, if their range, pressure reference, condition and interfaces suit the proposed system. Send the model details and existing certificates with a calibration enquiry. Check whether the gauge measures the pressure that actually matters at the process.
Can one system serve every process?
Only where the pressure requirements and process conditions are compatible. Share the gases and contamination risks for each user so the appropriate arrangement can be reviewed. Send Girovac your application details.
Planning a shared vacuum supply?
Send a sketch of the layout, the users that run together, required pressure and demand, process details and any standby requirement. Include existing pump and gauge models if you are upgrading a plant.
Technical reference
MIL’S INDUSVAC EVISA brochure (PDF), system description, receiver and control options. Range information is used here to explain selection; the supplied configuration must be confirmed in the quotation. Reviewed September 2026.
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