Abstract: A method of monitoring the condition of a pump (10) or at least one component of a system that includes a pump which component or components are not a part of the pump, includes the step of generating a predetermined test condition in the pump or system component or components. During a period in which such a test condition is present, signals indicative of the pump or system component or components are obtained. Wear in the pump bearings, the build-up of deposits in the pump or in pipework forming a part of the pump system can be detected or predicted and corrective action taken before the pump or system fails. By providing a method of monitoring pump or system condition in-situ, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of pump failure in use and the need to carry out over frequent servicing of the pump.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the condition of a pump (10) or at least one component of a system that includes a pump which component or components are not a part of the pump, includes the step of generating a pre-determined test condition in the pump or system component or components. During a period in which such a test condition is present, signals indicative of the pump or system component or components are obtained. Wear in the pump bearings, the build-up of deposits in the pump or in pipework forming a part of the pump system can be detected or predicted and corrective action taken before the pump or system fails. By providing a method of monitoring pump or system condition in-situ, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of pump failure in use and the need to carry out over frequent servicing of the pump.

Abstract: A vacuum pump non-return valve comprises a valve body that defines a through-passage having an inlet side and an outlet side. A valve seat is disposed intermediate said inlet and outlet sides of the through-passage. The valve seat is defined by an insert made of an elastomeric material. The non-return valve has a ball arranged to seat against the valve seat to prevent the passage of gaseous fluids from the outlet side to the inlet side. The ball is displaceable, in use, from valve seat by pressurised gaseous fluid in the inlet side of the through-passage to permit passage of gaseous fluid from the inlet side to the outlet side of the through-passage.