Vacuum pumps, blowers and compressors manufacturer Busch Vacuum Pumps & Systems presented its new series of energy saving rotary vane vacuum pumps for the first time at the IFFA exhibition, in Frankfurt, Germany, in May.

The new pumps are designed specifically for fast packaging cycles and for packaging machines offering on average energy savings of 20%, compared with solutions currently on the market.

Busch asserts that energy efficiency was paramount at the Busch stand and was also the central focus for those who visited Busch at the trade show. The company offered operators a special service during the IFFA event – a vacuum audit free of charge, which was available throughout May.

Busch Vacuum Pumps & Systems notes that the company is committed to developing vacuum pumps and centralised vacuum supply systems that operate at the highest possible levels of energy efficiency, enabling customers in the meat processing and packaging industries to benefit from lower energy consumption and reduced production costs.

The company highlights that the new RD series is based on the proven technology of the R5 rotary vane vacuum pump, which has been the industry standard for decades in food production and packaging.

The company further explains that technical optimisation of individual components has allowed energy consumption to be reduced significantly without affecting reliability and robustness. At the same time, the pumping speed of individual models at high vacuum levels has also been increased, which, for meat product packagers, means reduced cycle times and lower energy consumption.

Busch points out that all components requiring maintenance are mounted on one side of the unit for easier access, thereby reducing downtime, adding that the cooling air circulation has also been optimised. The cooling air outlet may be directed sideways or downward, depending on how the RD series is built into the packaging machine. A gas ballast device fitted as standard permits the extraction of humid air, making this vacuum pump ideal for the packaging of fresh meat and other moist products.

The company asserts that the focus of energy efficiency is not confined to the vacuum pump, noting that, as a competent partner for vacuum in the food packaging sector, the company’s energy management operates in accordance with ISO 50001 in terms of a comprehensive approach that demands an understanding of the entire packaging process.

“A Busch specialist will visit the production site to analyse the entire process and the demands placed on the vacuum supply. The results of this analysis are used to evaluate the vacuum technology in terms of process reliability and efficiency. Further potential for optimisation may then be identified, and recommendations can be made to reduce energy and maintenance costs,” concludes Busch.