In this 2-minute tutorial, we show the installation of an inlet screen on an Agilent 305 FS turbo pump. Using an inlet screen is a simple and effective way to protect your turbo pump from accidentally ingesting small parts like screws and washers, a situation that usually results in a catastrophic pump failure. Inlet screens can also prevent larger particles or debris from the process under vacuum from entering the pump. A negligible drop in pumping speed, typically about 10%, should be factored into the system design. When installing the inlet screen, gloves should be worn to protect the ceiling surfaces of the pump and to prevent fingerprints from introducing an outgassing load that could negatively impact vacuum system base pressure. Installing an inlet screen on an ISO flange pump is pretty straightforward, so this video only shows installation on an Agilent 300 L/s turbo pump in its ConFlat flange configuration. After removing the plastic cover from the pump inlet, remove the inlet screen from its protective packaging and carefully install it in the orientation shown. Then gently push it into place from the edges until it contacts the locating lip inside the pump. If you need to remove the inlet screen, use the supplied tool to carefully lift the inlet screen from one side and remove it from the pump. Remember to use the appropriate inlet screen for your pump model. Inlet screens are not universal. To learn more about Agilent turbo pump technology, scan the active code on the screen to go to the webinar library, or visit agilent.com.
