Comparison of vacuum systems for zero discharge offshore applications

Comparison of vacuum systems
for zero discharge offshore applications

Vacuum system and cutting boxes on offshore rig

REQUIREMENTS

• Reliability for continuous duty

• High vacuum and high air flow to maximize drilling productivity

• Cool operation for safety and reduced maintenance

• Non-sparking for compliance for Class 1, Division 1 operation

Vacuum comparison

.	Fan-type blower	Liquid ring pump	PD* w/cast iron impellers	Hydro Carbon PD* w/bronze impellers
Vacuum in inches of mercury	Up to 15" Hg (lacks pulling power)	Up to 26" Hg (only if service liquid is chilled)	16" Hg and 27" Hg types	26" Hg
Air flow	High Cfm	Low to high Cfm	Low to high Cfm	Low to high Cfm
Continuous duty	Yes	Yes (with service liquid replenishment)	Yes	Yes
Auxiliary systems required	No	Yes (service liquid cooling and replenishment)	No	No
Non-sparking (reduced fire risk)	Available	Yes	No	Yes
Operating temperature	Self-cooling (if high airflow)	Cool (if service liquid is chilled)	16" Hg blowers can run hot, 27" Hg blowers self-cooling	Self-cooling
Pump size vs Cfm output	Large	Large	Compact	Compact
Maintenance factors	Minimum maintenance	Shaft seals may require service	Lip seals on 16" Hg blowers may require service; 27" blowers have durable piston ring seals	Minimum maintenance, durable piston ring seals

*Rotary-lobe positive displacement blowers

The key to productivity is high vacuum (26 - 27" Hg)
Only high vacuum blowers can pull heavy loads or free blockages in vacuum hoses.

The key to continuous duty is proper filtration, no matter what type of blower
or liquid ring pump. Proper filtration includes cyclones, filter baghouse and safety screen.
Without a baghouse, blower can be damaged or liquid ring pump’s liquid system will be
contaminated with damaging sediment.

To vacuum products overview

3200 CFM vacuum system

1600 CFM vacuum system

1000 CFM vacuum system

Constant vac manifold

See why Hydro Carbon’s
vacuum systems are superior