ABSTRACT
In the early sections of this chapter, four examples of flow and pumping calculations are given. They are intended to illustrate the use of the information and methods of the previous chapters in analyzing practical situations. In the later sections, some representative small laboratory pumping systems are described and analyzed, with account taken of their size and purpose, the choice of pumps, and some details of their operation. It is hoped that, as a result, readers may be better equipped to approach and analyze the systems they encounter, with increased recognition and understanding of their form and purpose. The treatment given is not intended as a guide to the design of systems. For that purpose the chapter on high-vacuum system design by W. Schwarz (1998) forms a good general starting point; a comprehensive survey of systems for various applications with thoroughgoing descriptions of their configuration and operation is given in O’Hanlon (2003). In operating vacuum systems, it is of the utmost importance to do so safely, and to follow the recommendations given in manufacturers’ literature. Chapter 16 of Harris (2005) may be consulted as a general guide.
