Behind the Scenes - How GLV Tests and Certifies Vacuum Pumps and Blowers

Behind the Scenes: How GLV Tests and Certifies Vacuum Pumps and Mechanical Boosters

IMPORTANT NOTE: Great Lakes Vacuum remanufactures and/or refurbishes vacuum pumps and blowers, then tests and resells the product.  Great Lakes Vacuum also services damaged vacuum pumps and blowers for customers – reconstructing and testing the equipment, then returning to pre-damaged condition.

 

Popular examples of such vacuum pumps and mechanical boosters include:

Edwards Stokes 212J Microvac Vacuum Pump, 900-212-014

Edwards Stokes 212H Microvac Vacuum Pump, 900-212-011

Edwards Stokes 412J Microvac Vacuum Pump, 900-412-014

Edwards Stokes 412H Microvac Vacuum Pump, 900-412-011

Leybold TRIVAC D65 B Vacuum Pump, 11296

Welch DuoSeal 1376 Vacuum Pump

Roots 10×24 RGS HVB Mechanical Booster Blower

Edwards Stokes 615 Microvac Booster

Leybold SOGEVAC SV 300 B Vacuum Pump

Leybold RUVAC WAU 1001 or Leybold RUVAC WSU 1001 Mechanical Booster Pumps

 

At Great Lakes Vacuum, rebuilding a vacuum pump isn’t just about replacing parts—it’s about restoring precision, reliability, and confidence. Our reputation is built on what happens after the tools go down and the real quality control begins.  Here is a look inside the GLV testing and certification process that sets our rebuilt, refurbished, and remanufactured vacuum pumps apart.

Step 1: Comprehensive Inspection

Every pump entering our shop receives a full teardown and forensic-level inspection – including the associated motor.  We don’t just look at the failed parts—we examine wear patterns, tolerances, coatings, and contamination levels to understand the root cause. This allows us to rebuild smarter and ensure longer-lasting results.

Step 2: OEM-Grade Rebuild

Using only GLV-approved replacement parts or OEM components, our technicians rebuild to exacting standards. Whether it’s vanes, seals, gaskets, or bearings, every component is carefully installed and torqued according to factory specifications.

Step 3: Precision Testing

Once rebuilt, each pump enters our testing bay, where it runs through a multi-point performance validation. We simulate real-world operating conditions, including:

  • Ultimate vacuum pressure testing
  • Electrical evaluation regarding motor and pump compatibility (amperage)
  • Thermal stability monitoring (temperature)
  • Oil Flow, when applicable
  • Helium leak-down and noise testing

This phase typically spans several hours, allowing us to identify subtle anomalies that could impact performance or lifespan.

Step 4: Certification & Documentation

When a unit passes testing, it’s not just a pat on the back—we file a formal performance report and rebuild certification. All of our equipment receives:

  • A signed inspection report
  • Detailed notes on replaced components
  • Performance test results
  • Recommended maintenance parts and instructions

Step 5: Cleanroom-Quality Packaging

Before shipping, the pump is cleaned, flushed, and wrapped in moisture-resistant packaging. Our goal is that it arrives as pristine and ready-to-install as it left our testing station.

Why It Matters

Trust in rebuilt equipment hinges on proof.  At GLV, we don’t rely on vague assurances—we back every rebuild with hard data, detailed documentation, and a performance guarantee rooted in 20+ years of experience.

Your vacuum pump doesn’t just leave our shop looking new.  It functions like new.  In the environments you work in, that is what counts.

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