ECONOMIC OPERATING MODE OF THE PUMPING SYSTEM
In addition to replacing the vacuum furnace chamber, another method of reducing energy costs is to activate the ECO Mode function in the device’s pumping system.
In ECO Mode, the pumping system and its components are activated only when absolutely necessary, for example during gas cooling, or with a blower, and during convective heating — when the operation of vacuum pumps is not required, they are turned off. The savings results from changing the control of the diffusion pump heating elements and replacing the typical On/Off switching with smooth power regulation using a thyristor controller. The diffusion pump heaters are also turned off if high vacuum is not required in the recipe – the so-called standby mode. Additionally, in ECO Mode, the chiller is turned off, leading to reduced energy consumption.
In some cases, savings can reach 12% compared to a similar process without the ECO Mode activated. It should be noted that a plant may have several industrial furnaces, which, thanks to the scale effect, increases the impact of savings.
The latest SECO/WARWICK furnaces come factory-equipped with the ECO Mode option. Previous generation furnace models can be retrofitted with this function. The ability to enable ECO Mode depends on the type of processes carried out in the furnace, which should be carefully assessed and analyzed.
In vacuum devices from other manufacturers, it is also possible to introduce economic upgrades for the pumping system to conserve energy. In such a case, modifications to the control system may be required.
/Benefits of using ECO Mode in SECO/WARWICK industrial furnaces:
Reduction in electric consumption
- ECO Mode limits the operation of the pumping system only to moments when it is necessary (e.g., gas cooling, convective heating)
- Turning off unnecessary components, such as the chiller or diffusion pump heaters, significantly reduces power consumption
Operational savings of up to 12%:
- Compared to operation without an active ECO Mode, real energy cost savings are possible – particularly noticeable with many furnaces in operation in the plant
Smooth power regulation of diffusion pump heaters
- Instead of traditional On/Off control, the use of a thyristor controller allows precise power adjustment, improving energy efficiency.
Reduction in component wear and extended lifespan
- Limiting the operating time of pumps and cooling reduces mechanical and thermal wear of system components
Adaptation to process specificity
- ECO Mode can be activated depending on the type of process, ensuring flexibility and technological safety
Quick and simple implementation
- Implementing ECO Mode does not require complicated modifications – it is a quick solution with immediate effects
Scale effect in multi-furnace plants
- The more furnaces equipped with ECO Mode, the greater the cumulative savings for the entire plant
Possibility of retrofitting older furnace models
- SECO/WARWICK offers modernization of older devices, enabling the implementation of ECO Mode in existing installations
Summary: Using the ECO Mode in vacuum furnace pumping systems is a simple, quick solution that allows users to lower process energy costs.
What is the economic mode of pump system operation?
The economic mode of pump system operation is intelligent management of vacuum pumps, enabling energy savings, extended device lifespan, and reduced operating costs.
What are the benefits of implementing the economic mode?
- Lower electricity consumption
- Reduced mechanical load on pumps
- Longer lifespan of components
- Reduced service costs
Does the economic mode of pump system operation affect the quality of vacuum processes?
No, the economic mode is designed to maintain the required vacuum parameters without affecting the quality of heat treatment or vacuum metallurgy processes.
Can the economic mode be integrated with existing systems?
Yes, SECO/WARWICK offers the possibility to integrate the economic mode with existing pump installations, both in new and older systems.
How can I order the implementation of the economic mode?
Simply contact SECO/WARWICK’s service department via the contact form on the website or by phone to receive an individual offer. The contact form is available here: https://www.secowarwick.com/en/service/
