How to Choose a Vacuum Pump for Vacuum Bagging Composites

When you're setting out to get a vacuum pump for vacuum bagging your composite work, what types of pump should you consider and how do they compare? What about prepreg, or infusion, or bagged wet layup?

This video is a complement to an article at Explore Composites! about types of vacuum pumps and what to choose for vacuum bagging composites. There are lots of different types of pumps from a wide range of manufacturers - and plenty of options to consider. Each has strengths and weaknesses - there is no "best pump" for vacuum bagging - but there are great pumps for whatever process you're using!

This video focuses on small pumps that could be good "starter" pumps. These run on single-phase power and work great for small shops and individual users - or for smaller jobs in industrial environments.

Check out the article here:

[fredygump]

Sweet! I have one of those Gast diaphram pumps. I didn't get it because I was clever; I got it because it was cheap on Ebay! (I think it was $200 and in new condition, but sold as-is as part of a lab liquidation.) And it has been working flawlessly for the small parts I have been making.

[carsonbell]

what's the best pump for both wet layup and infusion for a budget of $400-$600 range? I'm having a lot of trouble figuring this out. I have a ton of pumps I'm looking at but can't choose. single stage or double? oil or oil free? I was thinking a JB Eliminator. What are your thoughts? thanks in advance. -Carson

[markuspersich]

Hello . I have a question which is the best vacuum pump for infusion and autoclaves? best regards ....

[ccne]

If I was building a 22' boat using vacuum infusion, which pump would you recommend? Thanks!

[kennyhill]

i have a Dresser vacuum pump DC2 high volume oil pump. I am having trouble finding the info on the required oil type? What should i be looking for in a oil. My unit looks low and want to flush and replace. Thanks

[rohanpuri]

Is the Busch R5 sufficient to do multiple prepreg items simultaneously? Probably with a vacuum tank?

[nutsandbolts]

Would a air conditioning vacuum pump, like a Robinair work for composite layups?

[quickservices]

Denvar was used but drop of water particle will ruin the pump performance. Anyone can assist which filter will be suitable for absorbing moisture from the air

[asahammond]

I am looking at some Busch pumps that will need to be turned off every 2 hours for 15 minutes. Will this be a problem for composites work in your experience? Doing a mix of wet and infusion.

[hp]

Which CFM vacuum pump do we need for a specific volume? Is there any relation? Vacuum needed is from 0.3-0.5mbar.

[ciksumurni]

What is the pressure range if I want to debulk Prepreg composite in a vaccum bag at room temperature?

[Iwasbornin]

You said that the Becker VT 4.16 is the largest you can get using 110V power. Becker has a VT 4.25 and VT 4.40 that use single-phase power so you can get more than double the flow if you went to the largest one.

[exclusivesolutions]

I have watched several of your videos and was very impressed, then found your website. Thank you very much for all the time you have spent putting this information together for all to learn!

I have just purchased a Busch RB 0021 and looking to purchase oil for the pump. I reached out to Busch directly, as it calls for their VM 032 oil and they did not respond!

Do you have any recommendations on a like for like oil that may be readily available at a local supply store?

[BTru]

Found an Edwards E2M30 for sale for pretty cheap. Is this pump overkill for composites work (wet layup and infusion)?

[tomspettel]

I have two brand new gast vac pumps that pull 19 to 20 pounds Dont know if this enough though

[mohammadtalebi]

I need to composite certificate May you helpe me...?

[LiaLee-]

Good ！I can provide industrial use vacuum pumps