Abstract: A method of inhibiting combustion within a vacuum pump is provided. The method steps include monitoring and composition of a fluid within the pump and supplying purge gas to the pump to inhibit the onset of a combustion of the fluid. There is also provided a pumping arrangement comprising a vacuum pump (1) together with means (8) for supplying purge gas to the pump. Sensor means (21a, 21b, 21c) are provided for outputting a signal indicative of the onset of a combustion condition within the pump. Control means (22) receive the signal and, in turn, actuate the supply means (9) dependant on the signal received.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting combustion within a vacuum pump is provided. The method steps include monitoring and composition of a fluid within the pump and supplying purge gas to the pump to inhibit the onset of a combustion of the fluid. There is also provided a pumping arrangement comprising a vacuum pump (1) together with means (8) for supplying purge gas to the pump. Sensor means (21a, 21b, 21c) are provided for outputting a signal indicative of the onset of a combustion condition within the pump. Control means (22) receive the signal and, in turn, actuate the supply means (9) dependant on the signal received.

Abstract: A method for the collection and subsequent regeneration of substances exhausted through a vacuum pump. In a first phase, an exhaust stream from the pump to an adsorption bed in which one or more components of the stream are adsorbed. In a second phase, adsorbed component(s) are regenerated from the bed by connecting the bed to the inlet side of the vacuum pump.

Abstract: A heat-sensitive liquid is dried and purified, by the degassing of sorbed gases, by means of a permeable electric heater, through which the liquid is passed, the liquid flowing first through a permeable liner presenting a flow impedance such that the degassing of the water vapour and gaseous impurities becomes significant only after the liquid has entered the body of the heater element.