Maintenance procedures and safe working conditions are essential in maintaining vacuum furnaces as is proper preparation of components to be heat treated prior to charging to the furnace. VAC AERO International operates more than a dozen vacuum furnaces in its own heat treating facilities. In addition, it has manufactured hundreds of vacuum furnaces for sale to the global market. Through these activities, the company has gained extensive experience in the care and maintenance of vacuum furnace equipment.
As with any piece of equipment, proper maintenance at regular intervals is essential for long service life and trouble-free operation of vacuum furnaces. The mechanical components in a vacuum furnace require standard maintenance practices (i.e. cleaning, lubrication, etc). However, the successful use of a vacuum furnace depends on the purity and reliability of its vacuum. Additional maintenance activities are required to ensure good vacuum levels in the system. Leaks in joints and contamination of furnace internals will greatly affect operating vacuum levels and the quality of the processing. Leaks are the most time consuming and troublesome of the maintenance items. Small leaks can only be isolated using helium leak detectors. However, by keeping track of where leaks most frequently occur, preventive measures can be taken to minimize the problem. The operating manuals supplied with most furnaces provide detailed information on maintenance and troubleshooting. All maintenance manuals should be read and understood before commencing furnace operation. BY JEFF PRITCHARD