By switching to dry screw vacuum pumps and the oxygen-resistant Varodry HD/O2 from Leybold, the company from the Midwest of the USA has achieved significant process improvements, according to the German manufacturer. OE Meyer has seven locations in the state and is 100% owned by its 130 employees. The company has been offering products and services since 1918. OE Meyer supplies its customers with industrial and specialty gases as well as welding and production systems. Customized systems are aimed at industry, agriculture, healthcare, and gastronomy. The Americans focus on general and medical gases as well as the filling of industrial gases, cylinders, oxygen, and inert gases.
Previous problems with oil leaks
The previous vacuum pumps had a problem with oil leaks. "The oil leaks caused considerable costs on the one hand and safety risks on the other due to the danger of slipping and environmental damage. The oil changes also cost around $1,600 each," recalls Mitch Robinson of OE Meyer. In order to keep pace with operational safety and environmental standards and reduce costs, it was therefore logical to replace the existing vacuum technology. "This step was a good opportunity to offer OE Meyer a sustainable alternative with the dry Varodry HD/O2 vacuum pumps," recalls Josh Miller from Leybold. The introduction of the dry-running vacuum pumps also confirmed the change.
"The investment has paid off, and the new pumps have proven to be clean, ergonomic, and efficient in use," summarizes Robinson. The dry technology now prevents oil contamination and backflow, ensuring a safe working environment. Equally important is that the oxygen-compatible Varodry HD/O2 fits into existing processes and has led to higher operating efficiency and savings, for example in the filling of medical oxygen. In addition, certification for operation with oxygen-rich processes gives employees confidence in using dry vacuum technology.
Less contamination with dry vacuum pumps
The Dryvac dry pump combines higher production yields with minimized contamination risks, especially in demanding processes. In addition, the switch to dry vacuum pumps has resulted in savings of approximately $10,000 per year in PFPE oil consumption alone. The elimination of maintenance work associated with oil changes saves another $10,000. Despite initial concerns, operational efficiency has improved, making operations cleaner and more profitable.
"We have also had only good experiences with Leybold's services so far. Customer support from the maintenance staff was punctual and uncomplicated," says Robinson, describing the collaboration. Employees not only received solutions to their problems, but also insights and tips on how to improve their skills and perform maintenance work themselves. For example, replacing a belt on the Varodry takes only 15 minutes. "The bottom line is that we are very satisfied with Leybold's products and services overall," Robinson summarizes the advantages.