For over four decades, Girovac has remained at the forefront of the industrial vacuum sector. Established in 1983, our company has built a reputation for technical reliability and hands-on expertise. When it comes to the "Edwards vacuum pump UK" market, we provide a comprehensive range of services, from the sale of reconditioned units to expert repairs conducted at our North Walsham workshop.

The Edwards brand is synonymous with quality in the vacuum industry, particularly their E2M series of rotary vane pumps. These units are found in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and freeze-drying installations across the country. At Girovac, we understand the critical role these pumps play in your operations. Whether you require a replacement unit, a bespoke system design, or a minor component like a replacement O-ring, our 40-plus years of experience ensure you receive the correct technical advice and support.

Why Edwards Vacuum Pumps are the Industry Standard

Edwards has long been a dominant force in the UK vacuum market, known for engineering robust and reliable equipment. Their two-stage oil-sealed rotary vane pumps, such as the E2M series, are particularly valued for their high ultimate vacuum and high pumping speeds, combined with relatively quiet operation.

These pumps are versatile "workhorses" suitable for a variety of demanding applications:

• Freeze Drying: Providing the stable vacuum environment necessary for sublimation.
• Mass Spectrometry: Ensuring clean, deep vacuum levels for precise analytical measurements.
• Vacuum Ovens: Removing moisture and gases from materials in industrial processing.
• Degassing: Essential in the production of resins, epoxies, and other materials.

At Girovac, we focus on providing the most efficient solution for your specific application. While we are the UK distributor for MIL’S French-engineered pumps, we maintain deep technical proficiency across all major European brands, with Edwards being a primary focus of our reconditioning and repair departments.

Reconditioned Edwards Pumps: Quality Without the Premium Price

For many businesses, the cost of a brand-new vacuum pump can be a significant capital expenditure. Girovac offers a cost-effective alternative by maintaining a consistent stock of reconditioned Edwards vacuum pumps. These units provide the same reliable performance as a new pump but at a fraction of the cost.

We specifically focus on the most popular models in the UK market:

• Edwards E2M5: A compact, two-stage pump with a displacement of approximately 5.8 m³/h (at 50Hz). It is ideal for laboratory use and small-scale industrial applications.
• Edwards E2M18: A larger unit with a displacement of roughly 20.5 m³/h (at 50Hz). The E2M18 is frequently used in larger freeze dryers and more demanding industrial processes.
• Edwards E2M8: A mid-range option that balances footprint with performance, making it a versatile choice for many facilities.

Every reconditioned Edwards pump that leaves our facility has undergone a rigorous overhaul. We do not simply "check" a pump; we strip it down, clean it, replace all internal seals and worn components, and test it against the original manufacturer's specifications. To demonstrate our confidence in this process, all reconditioned units come with a 6-month warranty (subject to correct application and maintenance).

Expert Repairs and Servicing at Our North Walsham Workshop

A vacuum pump is a precision instrument that requires regular maintenance to prevent costly downtime. If your Edwards pump is losing vacuum, making excessive noise, or leaking oil, it requires professional attention.

Girovac operates a fully equipped workshop in North Walsham where our engineers perform detailed repairs and servicing. Our approach is transparent and technically driven. When a pump arrives for repair, we conduct a thorough assessment before providing a quote. This ensures you are fully aware of the required work before any costs are incurred.

Our servicing capabilities include:

• Full Overhauls: Complete disassembly, cleaning, and replacement of all consumables (gaskets, seals, springs, and valves).
• Performance Testing: Using calibrated vacuum gauges to ensure the pump reaches its specified ultimate pressure.
• Valve and Instrument Repair: We don't just fix pumps; we also service vacuum valves and measuring instruments to ensure your entire system is functioning correctly.
• Generic Spares: To help our customers save costs, we supply a range of high-quality generic spares that meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards.

We pride ourselves on a "no task too small" philosophy. Whether you need a full system overhaul or just a pack of replacement O-rings, our team is ready to assist.

A Total Solution Approach: Beyond Edwards

While Edwards is a cornerstone of the UK market, Girovac’s expertise extends to the entire European vacuum landscape. We are the authorized UK distributor for MIL’S, the French manufacturer known for their high-quality industrial vacuum pumps and systems. This partnership allows us to offer industry-leading new equipment for those looking for the latest in vacuum technology.

In addition to Edwards and MIL’S, we regularly service and supply parts for other major brands, including:

• Leybold
• Busch
• VacuuBrand
• KNF and GAST
• Rietschle and Pfeiffer

This broad expertise means that if your facility uses a mix of different brands, Girovac can act as your single point of contact for all maintenance, spares, and advice.

Custom System Design and Freeze Dryer Specialization

One of our key USPs is our ability to design and build custom vacuum systems. We are specialists in freeze drying technology, a field that demands highly specific vacuum conditions and reliability.

Our system design service is not a "one size fits all" approach. We work closely with maintenance engineers and facility managers to understand their specific requirements, be it a particular footprint, a specific pumping speed, or integration with existing control systems. From the initial consultation to the final assembly in our workshop, we provide expert advice to ensure the final system is both efficient and cost-effective.

We also stock a range of essential system components, such as viewports and high-vacuum flanges, to ensure that your custom build or system upgrade is completed without delay.

Technical Excellence Since 1983

Longevity in the industrial sector is only achieved through a commitment to quality and technical accuracy. Since our inception in 1983, Girovac has navigated the evolution of vacuum technology, adapting our skills to meet the modern demands of British industry while retaining the traditional engineering values that ensure a job is done correctly.

We believe in providing straightforward, professional advice. If a pump is beyond economical repair, we will tell you. If a cost-saving generic part is a better fit for your budget than a branded one, we will suggest it. This transparency is why many of our customers have been with us for decades.

Contact Girovac for Your Vacuum Needs

Whether you are looking for a reconditioned Edwards E2M18, require a service for your current equipment, or need a bespoke vacuum system designed from the ground up, Girovac has the expertise to assist. Our North Walsham workshop is fully equipped to handle repairs of all sizes, and our stock of pumps and spares is one of the most comprehensive in the UK.

For expert advice, a quote for repairs, or to enquire about our current stock of reconditioned Edwards vacuum pumps, please contact our team.

Email: [email protected]

We look forward to helping you maintain the efficiency and reliability of your vacuum operations.

Summary of Girovac Services:

• Sales: New MIL'S vacuum pumps and reconditioned units (Edwards, Leybold, Busch).
• Repairs: Full workshop servicing in North Walsham for all major brands.
• Warranty: 6-month warranty on all reconditioned pumps.
• Spares: Comprehensive range of OEM and generic spares, from O-rings to valves.
• Specialization: Custom system design and freeze dryer expertise.
• Experience: Over 40 years of industry knowledge (Est. 1983).

In the industrial sector, vacuum pumps are often the “forgotten” workhorses, until they fail. For over 40 years, Girovac has assisted businesses across the UK in maintaining, repairing, and optimising their vacuum systems. Since 1983, we have observed a recurring pattern: most operational inefficiencies and premature pump failures are not caused by the equipment itself, but by common maintenance and operational errors.

In an era of rising energy prices and stringent production deadlines, these mistakes do more than just shorten the lifespan of your rotary vane vacuum pump; they directly impact your bottom line. Below are seven of the most frequent mistakes we encounter and, more importantly, how you can rectify them to improve energy efficiency and system reliability.

1. Incorrect Sizing: The “Bigger is Better” Fallacy

One of the most significant contributors to wasted energy is over-specification. We frequently see systems equipped with pumps that are far larger than the application requires. While a larger pump might reach the desired vacuum level faster, it consumes significantly more power and operates less efficiently during the sustained “hold” phase of your process.

Conversely, an undersized pump will struggle to maintain the required vacuum, leading to extended cycle times and overheating.

The Solution: Proper system design is essential. Before purchasing new equipment, ensure you have calculated the required flow rate and ultimate vacuum precisely for your application. As we discussed in our previous post on over-specifying vacuum pumps, getting the sizing right is the first step toward a cost-effective operation.

2. Neglecting Oil Quality and Regular Changes

For an oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pump, the oil is its lifeblood. It provides lubrication, cooling, and the critical seal between the vanes and the pump chamber. Over time, this oil becomes contaminated with process vapours, dust, and chemical residues.

Operating a pump with degraded or contaminated oil increases internal friction and forces the motor to draw more current to overcome the resistance. In extreme cases, contaminated oil can lead to “sludging,” which can permanently damage internal components.

The Solution:

• Implement a strict oil-change schedule based on operating hours or oil colour.
• Use the correct grade of vacuum oil (generic equivalents can offer significant cost savings if specified correctly).
• Monitor for “milky” oil, which indicates water contamination, and use gas ballast valves where appropriate to purge vapours.

3. Ignoring System Leaks

A vacuum system is only as efficient as its tightest seal. Even a microscopic leak in your piping or at a flange joint forces the pump to work harder to maintain the target pressure. If your pump is running at 100% capacity just to compensate for atmospheric air leaking into the system, you are essentially throwing energy away.

Leaks often develop over time due to vibration, thermal expansion, or the degradation of old O-rings and gaskets.

The Solution: Regular leak detection is vital. Utilise ultrasonic leak detectors or pressure decay tests to identify weak points in your system. Replacing a £10 O-ring could save you hundreds of pounds in annual energy costs.

4. Using the Wrong Filtration or Spares

To protect your pump from process contaminants, high-quality filtration is non-negotiable. However, using the wrong filter, or neglecting to change an existing one, creates a restriction in the inlet line. This restriction forces the pump to work against higher resistance, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced pumping speed.

Furthermore, many operators believe they must always purchase expensive branded spares.

The Solution: While we are proud UK distributors for MIL’S French-engineered systems, Girovac also maintains an extensive stock of high-quality generic spares for major brands like Leybold, Edwards, and Busch. Our generic spares provide the same technical reliability as OEM parts but at a more competitive price point, allowing you to maintain your equipment without compromising your maintenance budget.

5. Lack of Professional Servicing

While daily checks can be performed in-house, there is no substitute for a professional teardown and inspection. Many businesses wait until a pump has seized before seeking help. By this stage, the repair costs are often triple what a preventative service would have been.

A professional service identifies “hidden” issues, such as worn vanes that have not yet shattered, or cooling fans that are partially obstructed by workshop debris.

The Solution: Our North Walsham workshop is equipped to handle everything from minor repairs to full reconditioning of complex vacuum systems. By sending your pump to our engineers, you ensure that every clearance and tolerance is checked against the manufacturer’s specifications. (Note: Repair lead times may vary based on the availability of specific internal components for older models).

6. Environmental Factors: Heat and Dust

Vacuum pumps are sensitive to their surroundings. In many facilities, pumps are tucked away in corners or small enclosures where heat can build up. Since a pump’s efficiency drops as its temperature rises, poor ventilation is a silent energy killer.

Similarly, dust and airborne particles can clog the cooling fins on the motor or the pump body, leading to overheating and premature bearing failure.

The Solution: Ensure your pumps are located in a well-ventilated area with at least 30cm of clearance on all sides. Regular cleaning of the external surfaces and cooling fans with compressed air can significantly extend the life of the motor and internal seals.

7. Skipping Preventative Maintenance (PM)

The “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” mentality is the most expensive strategy in the vacuum industry. Preventative maintenance is about identifying the gradual decline in performance before it reaches a failure point.

A pump that is slowly losing its ultimate vacuum capability is a pump that is becoming more expensive to run every day.

The Solution: Develop a PM checklist that includes:

• Inlet filter inspection and cleaning.
• Exhaust filter (oil mist separator) checks to prevent back-pressure.
• Checking belt tension (for belt-driven models).
• Logging operating temperatures and ultimate vacuum levels weekly to spot trends.

The Girovac Approach: 40 Years of Expertise

At Girovac, we take a “total solution” approach to industrial vacuum. Whether you are looking for a brand-new MIL’S high-vacuum system or need a reliable reconditioned unit to get your production line back up and running, we have the technical expertise to assist.

Our partnership with MIL’S, a company with over a century of French engineering history, allows us to provide industry-leading pumps that are designed with energy efficiency and “eco-design” at their core. However, we also recognise the value of legacy equipment. Our workshop regularly services and supplies reconditioned models from brands like Edwards, PFEIFFER, and BUSCH, often providing 6-month warranties on our reconditioned stock (subject to correct installation and use).

Ready to Optimise Your System?

Don’t let maintenance mistakes drain your budget. If you are unsure whether your current vacuum system is operating at peak efficiency, or if you need expert advice on the best spares for your rotary vane pump, our team is here to help.

For technical enquiries or to book a service at our workshop, please email us at [email protected]. With over four decades of experience, no task is too small or too large for the Girovac team.

In the world of industrial vacuum equipment, it is easy to get caught up in the technical specifications listed on a manufacturer’s datasheet. For many engineers and facility managers, the "ultimate vacuum" level, the lowest pressure a pump can theoretically achieve, is often viewed as the primary benchmark for quality. However, as we move through 2026, with energy costs and operational efficiency under greater scrutiny than ever before, the question must be asked: does that ultimate vacuum figure really matter for your specific application?

At Girovac, we have been advising clients on vacuum technology since 1983. With over four decades of experience, we have seen countless businesses over-specify their equipment, chasing a deep vacuum level that their process doesn't actually require. This "myth" that deeper is always better can lead to significantly higher capital expenditure, increased maintenance costs, and unnecessary energy consumption.

Understanding Ultimate Vacuum vs. Operating Vacuum

To make an informed decision, it is essential to distinguish between a pump’s ultimate vacuum and its working (or operating) vacuum. The ultimate vacuum is the pressure reached by the pump when the inlet is completely blanked off and no gas is being handled. It is a measure of the pump's mechanical limit under ideal laboratory conditions.

In contrast, the operating vacuum is the pressure the pump maintains while actually performing work, such as evacuating a chamber, holding a component in place, or facilitating a freeze-drying process. In almost every industrial scenario, the operating vacuum is significantly higher than the ultimate vacuum. If your process requires a stable vacuum of 10 mbar, purchasing a pump capable of reaching 0.001 mbar (excluding any process-related outgassing) may be a technical triumph but a commercial oversight.

The Cost of Over-Specifying

Chasing the lowest possible mbar reading often comes with a hidden price tag. High vacuum equipment is engineered with tighter tolerances, more complex sealing arrangements, and often requires more expensive multi-stage designs.

1. Energy Consumption: Pumps designed for very high vacuum levels often require more power to maintain those depths. In a modern industrial environment, where "green" targets and electricity bills are paramount, running a high-spec pump for a low-spec task is inefficient.
2. Maintenance Complexity: Generally, the deeper the vacuum a pump is designed to reach, the more sensitive it is to contaminants. A high-performance rotary vane vacuum pump operating at its limit will require more frequent oil changes and filter replacements to maintain that performance.
3. Capital Outlay: You are effectively paying for engineering that you aren't using. By selecting a pump better suited to your actual operating range, you can often reinvest those savings into better control systems or preventative maintenance.

When Does High Vacuum Truly Matter?

Of course, there are many applications where high vacuum is not just a preference but a necessity. At Girovac, we provide specialised equipment for these sectors, ensuring that the precision matches the demand.

Power Stations and Large-Scale Utilities

In power generation, vacuum systems are used in condensers to remove non-condensable gases. Here, maintaining a specific deep vacuum is critical to the thermal efficiency of the entire plant. A loss of vacuum here directly translates to a loss of megawatts.

Laboratory and Research Applications

For thin-film deposition, mass spectrometry, and electron microscopy, the presence of even a few stray molecules can ruin an experiment. These applications require high vacuum equipment capable of reaching pressures into the 10⁻⁶ mbar range and beyond.

Freeze Drying

As freeze dryer specialists, we understand that this process sits in the "medium" to "high" vacuum transition. While you don't need the extreme depths of a particle accelerator, you do need a pump that can handle high water vapour loads while maintaining a very consistent vacuum level to ensure product quality.

The Industrial Reality: Reliability Over Raw Numbers

For the majority of our industrial clients, those involved in packaging, vacuum forming, or general manufacturing, the focus should be on "Total Cost of Ownership" and reliability. Since 1996, Girovac has been the UK distributor for MIL'S, a French manufacturer known for their robust engineering.

The MIL'S EVISA range of rotary vane pumps is a prime example of equipment designed for the realities of the factory floor. These pumps are built to provide a consistent, reliable vacuum day in and day out, with a focus on ease of maintenance rather than just chasing a headline-grabbing ultimate vacuum figure.

Choosing the Right Industrial Vacuum Pumps

Selecting the right pump involves more than just looking at a spec sheet. It requires an understanding of your "duty cycle," the types of gases or vapours you are pumping, and your local environment.

New vs. Reconditioned Options

Not every application requires a brand-new system. Our North Walsham workshop specialises in the reconditioning of major European brands like Edwards, Leybold, and Busch. For example, a reconditioned Edwards E2M18 or E2M5 can offer exceptional value for money, provided it is serviced by experts. We stand by our workmanship, offering a 6-month warranty on all reconditioned units (excluding consumable items and misuse).

Custom System Design

Sometimes, a standard off-the-shelf pump isn't the answer. We specialise in custom system design, where we look at the "total solution." This might involve combining a rugged MIL'S pump with specific filtration, valves, and measuring instruments to create a system that is perfectly balanced for your needs, saving you money on both the initial purchase and long-term running costs.

Hands-On Expertise in North Walsham

The difference in choosing Girovac lies in our technical heritage. We aren't just a sales office; we are engineers with a physical workshop where we tear down, repair, and test equipment every day. When you ask us about vacuum levels, our advice is based on what we see on our test rigs and what our customers experience in the field.

We maintain a comprehensive stock of vacuum products, from simple O-rings and cost-saving generic spares to complete industrial vacuum systems. This allows us to provide expert advice that is both practical and commercially sensible.

Conclusion: Making the Right Call for 2026

As we look ahead, the trend in vacuum technology is moving away from the "bigger is better" mentality and towards smarter, more appropriately sized solutions. Before you commit to a high-spec rotary vane vacuum pump because of its ultimate vacuum rating, take a moment to evaluate what your process actually demands.

Chasing a deeper vacuum than necessary is an expensive pursuit that rarely yields operational benefits in a standard industrial setting. By focusing on reliability, serviceability, and correct sizing, you can ensure your facility remains competitive and efficient.

If you are unsure whether your current vacuum levels are optimal for your process, or if you are considering an upgrade to your existing industrial vacuum pumps, we invite you to draw on our 40 years of expertise. We can help you navigate the technical jargon and find a solution that works for your specific requirements and budget.

For technical advice, spares, or a quote on new and reconditioned equipment, please contact our team via email at [email protected]. Whether you need a single valve or a complete bespoke system, no task is too small or too large for our team in North Walsham.

Selecting the correct vacuum pump for an industrial or laboratory application is a decision that impacts long-term operational costs, maintenance schedules, and system reliability. Since 1983, Girovac has specialised in medium and high vacuum equipment, providing expert advice to facility managers and maintenance engineers across the UK.

A frequent question we encounter is how modern, engineered solutions like the MIL’S EVISA range compare to “traditional” rotary vane pumps. Girovac has over 40 years of vacuum expertise (since 1983), and we have been the UK distributor for MIL’S since 1996, so we have had nearly 30 years to see first-hand how French engineering can turn a standard technology into a very capable industrial asset. This article provides a technical comparison to help you decide which path is right for your specific requirements.

Understanding the Industry Baseline: Traditional Rotary Vane Pumps

For decades, the oil-lubricated rotary vane pump has been the workhorse of the vacuum industry. Its design is relatively simple: a rotor is positioned eccentrically in a cylindrical housing, with vanes that slide in and out of slots, creating chambers of varying volumes. This positive displacement mechanism is highly effective for achieving deep vacuum levels (often down to 10⁻³ mbar in two-stage models).

Traditional pumps, such as those from legacy European brands like Edwards or Leybold, are robust and dependable. They are the “standard” for a reason, they work. However, standard designs often require external accessories to handle specific industrial challenges, such as oil mist elimination or high-temperature operation. While these pumps are excellent for general-purpose use, they can sometimes fall short in demanding continuous-duty cycles or environments where noise and vibration are critical factors.

The MIL’S EVISA: Re-Engineering a Classic

The MIL’S EVISA series represents an evolution of the rotary vane principle. Manufactured in France, these pumps are not just a different brand; they are a re-engineered approach to lubricated vacuum technology. While they utilise the same core physics as traditional pumps, the EVISA range integrates features that are often considered “optional extras” elsewhere into the standard build.

1. Superior Efficiency and Continuous Operation

One of the primary technical advantages of the EVISA range is its ability to operate continuously from atmospheric pressure down to its ultimate vacuum in the 10⁻¹ to 10⁻² mbar range (down to 0.06 mbar on some current models). Many traditional rotary vane pumps struggle with continuous operation at higher pressures, which can lead to overheating or excessive oil carryover.

The EVISA is designed with a more robust thermal management system. This ensures that the pump maintains its performance even in high-ambient-temperature environments or during prolonged pumping cycles. For facility managers, this translates to fewer unplanned shutdowns and a more reliable vacuum supply for critical processes like freeze drying or degassing.

2. Integrated Oil Mist Filtration

In some traditional setups, particularly with older legacy pumps or budget generic models, the exhaust from a rotary vane pump may require an external oil mist filter to prevent oil vapours from entering the workspace. If these filters are not correctly sized or maintained, they can create backpressure, reducing the pump’s efficiency.

The MIL’S EVISA features an integrated, high-efficiency oil mist filter within the pump housing. This design ensures that the captured oil is returned directly to the lubrication circuit. This not only results in a cleaner working environment (essential for laboratory and healthcare settings) but also reduces oil consumption over time.

3. Noise and Vibration Mitigation

Noise pollution is a significant concern in modern manufacturing and research facilities. Traditional pumps can be notoriously loud, requiring expensive acoustic enclosures.

The EVISA range is specifically engineered for “silent” operation. Through precise balancing of the rotor assembly and high-quality French manufacturing tolerances, these pumps exhibit significantly lower vibration levels than many generic or older-generation rotary vane models. This makes them ideal for installation in locations where staff are working in close proximity to the equipment.

Technical Comparison at a Glance

To provide a clear overview, the table below highlights the key differences between a standard industry-baseline pump and the MIL’S EVISA:

Maintenance and the “Total Solution” Approach

At Girovac, we emphasize the importance of maintenance in the total cost of ownership. A “cheap” pump can quickly become expensive if spares are difficult to source or if the design requires specialized tools for simple tasks.

The MIL’S EVISA is designed with the maintenance engineer in mind. The layout of the pump allows for “light onsite maintenance,” meaning common service tasks can be performed quickly without removing the pump from the system. This is a crucial advantage for facility managers looking to minimise downtime.

Furthermore, as the UK distributor for MIL’S since 1996, Girovac maintains a comprehensive stock of genuine MIL’S spares and consumables at our North Walsham workshop. We also provide cost-saving generic alternatives for standard components where appropriate, ensuring our customers always have a choice that fits their budget. Our 40+ years of vacuum expertise mean that if you encounter a technical issue, you aren’t calling a generic helpdesk; you are speaking to engineers who have been servicing these systems for decades.

Choosing the Right Equipment for Your Facility

While the MIL’S EVISA offers numerous advantages, the “better” pump always depends on the specific application.

• Choose a Traditional Rotary Vane if: Your application is intermittent, your budget is highly constrained for initial purchase, and you have the space for external filtration and acoustic management.
• Choose a MIL’S EVISA if: You require 24/7 reliability, you operate in a noise-sensitive environment, or you want a compact, integrated solution with lower long-term maintenance requirements.

Girovac provides a “total solution” approach. We don’t just sell you a pump; we help design the system, select the correct valves and measuring instruments, and provide ongoing support. Whether you need a small MIL’S pump for a laboratory freeze dryer or a large-scale industrial vacuum system, our team can provide the technical guidance necessary to make an informed decision.

Conclusion: Expertise You Can Trust

The transition from a standard vacuum pump to a high-performance MIL’S EVISA unit is often a turning point for many of our customers. The combination of French engineering and Girovac’s local UK support provides a level of security that is hard to match.

With over four decades of experience in the vacuum industry since 1983, we have seen technologies come and go. Our commitment to brands like MIL’S is based on their proven performance in the field, and our partnership as UK distributor since 1996 gives us a long, practical view of how these pumps perform outside the brochure. If you are looking to upgrade your current vacuum equipment or are designing a new system from scratch, we invite you to draw on our experience.

For expert advice on MIL’S EVISA pumps, or to discuss our range of reconditioned vacuum pumps (which include 6-month warranties for added peace of mind), please get in touch.

Contact Girovac Today:

• Email: [email protected]
• Visit: www.girovac.com

No task is too small or too large: from a single O-ring to a bespoke industrial system, we are here to support your vacuum requirements.

As Girovac moves into its fifth decade of operation, we remain proud of our legacy – and excited about what’s ahead.

From our earliest days, Girovac has always stood for quality, reliability, and personal service. That ethos continues, even as we go through a time of transition.

Honouring Our Roots

We were deeply saddened by the passing of Roger Lee, one of Girovac’s original driving forces, and for many, the face of Girovac through the years. His contribution to the company – and the industry as a whole – leaves a lasting legacy.

Gill, his wife,  remains at the helm and continues to be the best person to speak to about anything related to accounts and operations. Her experience, attention to detail and longstanding customer relationships are part of what makes Girovac trusted by so many.

Evolving for the Future

We’re delighted to share that Gareth, Gill and Roger’s son – who has grown up around the business for many years – has now stepped into a full-time position. Gareth is now your main point of contact for all new enquiries, quotes, and installations. He brings deep product knowledge and a solutions-led approach that customers will already recognise.

Martin Cox has recently joined the team to help shape our eCommerce and marketing strategy. With experience growing B2B brands and supporting international sales, Martin will be working behind the scenes to strengthen how we show up – both online and in the market.

What’s Next?

We’ll shortly be introducing some new product ranges, alongside the continuation of partnerships with trusted colleagues and manufacturers around the world – including our long-standing collaboration with MIL’S vacuum technologies.

Our mission remains the same: to provide high-quality vacuum solutions with personal, dependable service that stands the test of time.

Here’s to the next chapter.

Girovac and MIL’S: A Partnership Built on Quality, Trust, and Innovation

At Girovac, we’re proud to continue our longstanding partnership with MIL’S – a company whose dedication to precision, reliability, and craftsmanship aligns perfectly with our own values.

For over 2 decades, MIL’S has been at the heart of our vacuum solutions offering. As a French manufacturer renowned for high-quality vacuum pumps and systems, MIL’S stands apart for its commitment to excellence at every stage – from the materials it sources to its industry-leading production processes.

This is not just a supplier relationship. It’s a collaboration rooted in shared standards and strengthened year after year by trust, respect, and results.

“MIL’S pumps are the kind of equipment we can recommend without hesitation – robust, reliable, and built with care. It’s rare to find a partner so consistent in both product and principle.”

– The Girovac Team

Why MIL’S?

• Unmatched Craftsmanship: Each pump is a product of passionate, meticulous French engineering.

• Rigorously Controlled Quality: MIL’S operates under some of the most stringent quality procedures in the industry.

• Sustainability-Driven: With optimised processes that reduce environmental impact, MIL’S shares our commitment to a cleaner future.

• Collaborative by Design: Their willingness to develop custom solutions makes them a flexible and invaluable partner in the field.

From healthcare and food production to heavy industry and research labs, Girovac and MIL’S pumps continue to serve clients across the UK and beyond – helping them solve complex challenges with dependable, energy-efficient technology.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to grow our team and services, we are excited to expand our MIL’S offering across new sectors and applications. The trust we place in MIL’S is earned – through consistent performance, shared values, and the simple fact that their pumps just work.

This partnership is more than a supply chain link – it’s a cornerstone of how we deliver long-term value to our customers.

Learn more about MIL’s and view our range with them here – or to discuss how Girovac and MIL’s can support your vacuum needs get in touch.

In November 2018 Girovac delivered another INDUSVAC 2E100 H5 Central Vacuum System for installation in a London University Chemistry Laboratory.

MIL’S is about to announce the launch of New Vacuum Products in Spring 2019. Stay in touch to read about it first on our website.

Girovac have been chosen by Rolls Royce to supply a bespoke vacuum system for their engine maintenance schedule.