What Should You Look for When Buying a Vacuum Pump for Your Factory?

Posted on: May 27, 2026

Estimated Reading Time: 3 min(s)


When buying a vacuum pump for your factory, you should look for flow rate (CFM), vacuum strength and durability. The flow rate tells you how much air the pump can move. The vacuum strength tells you how much pressure the pump can handle and how deep a vacuum it can create. Durable vacuum pumps are made from tough materials that can handle your working conditions day in and day out.

What Are the Different Types of Vacuum Pumps?

The different types of vacuum pumps are rotary vane, articulated piston, screw, liquid ring and claw pumps.

  • Rotary vane pumps use centrifugal force to push a set of sliding vanes out against the pump’s casing, which helps trap and move air through the chamber.
  • Articulated piston pumps operate like a car engine, with the piston moving inside a cylinder and drawing air through an intake valve.
  • Rotary screw pumps create compression with screws that turn in opposite directions to trap, compress and move air along.
  • Liquid ring pumps rely on a spinning ring of liquid to create separate pockets that capture and move air.
  • Claw vacuum pumps use turning rotors to create space for drawing air and reducing the space to compress the air.

How Many CFM Is a Good Industrial Vacuum Pump?

A good industrial vacuum pump has a flow rate that matches your factory’s unique requirements, which can range from just a few CFM to hundreds of CFM, depending on your operations. If you’re running multiple systems or larger equipment, you’ll want a higher CFM to keep up with demand. The key is to choose a pump that keeps your workflow steady without overworking the equipment or wasting energy. If you’re not sure what you need, it’s worth reaching out to a vacuum pump expert to talk through your setup.

Can CFM Be Too High or Too Low?

CFM can be too high or too low when the air flow doesn’t match your system’s needs. If it’s too low, your pumps might not be powerful enough to support your equipment. But if CFM is too high, you could end up wasting energy or putting too much strain on your system. The goal is to find a pump with just the right CFM for the job so everything runs smoothly.

Choose Quality Vacuum Pumps From Quincy Compressor

If you want to make choosing a new vacuum pump simple, Quincy Compressor has you covered. Our expert team can help you find the perfect match for your factory, offer genuine parts and support your maintenance every step of the way. Reach out today to find a quality vacuum pump made for your needs.

Choose Quality Vacuum Pumps From Quincy Compressor

Avatar photo

Author

Ashley Gates

With over 19 years of experience in the compressed air industry, Ashley Gates brings deep expertise and a passion for innovation to her role as Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Quincy Compressor. Quincy, a trusted leader since 1920, is renowned for designing and manufacturing high-performance reciprocating and rotary screw air compressors, vacuum pumps, and a full range of air treatment solutions. Ashley is proud to represent a brand built on rugged reliability and trusted by customers in the most demanding industries. Throughout her career, she has championed strategic marketing initiatives that drive growth and strengthen industry partnerships. In addition to her role at Quincy, Ashley is honored to serve as co-chairwoman of Women In Compressed Air and Vacuum. She is excited to help expand the organization’s reach, foster meaningful connections, and empower more women to thrive in the compressed air and vacuum industry.

Search the Blog

Archives

Sign up for our Newsletter