There are enough air compressors that make the perfect vacuum pump if the intake valve can get enclosed, fitted, or, you can say, connected accurately. They are typically used to transport gas molecules from one area to another region by differing the pressure.
Basically, a vacuum pump draws air from a locked atmosphere, which will result in a positive discharge pump. In contrast, when we talk about an air compressor, it works by removing from the open atmosphere/environment to the closed one.
While conversion may sound to be a difficult task, it’s nothing more than a myth. One thing you need to know at first is how to operate an air compressor. Other than that, you don’t need to worry about how to make a vacuum pump from an air compressor.
Using the proper technique, you can make the process direct and save a lot of money, just as I did.
What instruments do you need to make a vacuum pump?
To convert a vacuum pump from an air compressor, you will need some hands-on tools to make the process go smoothly. That all includes;
- A few feet of braided PVC hose pipe with a 14-inch diameter
- Screwdriver and epoxy-containing steel
- Scissors and nippers
- A 14-inch hose barb
- A clamp for the hose
How to make a vacuum pump from an air compressor?
I assume that you are here searching for ways to convert an air compressor because you own one and want to experiment and divert it to the vacuum pump as per your needs.
We have a total of 5 steps to do this conversion which is relatively quick and straightforward.
1. Examine the case
Always start with wearing gloves and eyeglasses for better protection. When you are ready, go through the details that are mentioned by the manufacturer on the product list for a bit of understanding of the products. When you are done with this, it’s time to proceed with the actual step.
Just as the instructions said, open the cap of the pump slightly at first, and then you can unscrew it easily with the screwdriver. Separate both of the cases so that you can see the motor of the compressor.
Then, you need to push or can also pull the engine by your side to reach the cylinder, which means that the case is completely opened now.
2. Locate the intake valve
In this step, you need to locate the intake valve for the placement of the cylinder. Now it often comes to mind why cylinder placement is essential?
Let me tell you that the cylinder is the first place where you need to take your air for compression. By following that, it then directs the air out directly.
To do so, locate the air pump again; you can do the push and pull mechanism, and the process is done.
3. Connect the Vacuum Hose Connector
After the cylinder placement, make sure you have epoxy glue for sealing because, or better pump working, you must fill inlet holes.
After applying the glue thoroughly, leave it for a maximum of 24 hours for a good application.
After one day’s application, examine whether the hole is completely secured or not. If not, you can place the glue with your fingers too and leave it for some hours. This is an important step, as a poor application can lead to leakage.
4. Ensure PVC hose placement
To lock the PVC hose, you need a clamp for better protection and working and after that, directly connect the hose to the vacuum pump. The PVC hose ensures a length of about 14 inches.
You can also use the tool of your choice, but a clamp is advised for protection purposes and to avoid any mishap because you are not a professional worker.
The clamp ensures that the pipe is fitted correctly to avoid any uncertainty while working on the vacuum pump.
5. Make a hole in the compressor and reassemble it
In the final step, you need to trace a hole by using the measurements that are often given on the instruction page by the manufacturer, or you can also check it accordingly by the machine.
It is better to make sure that the diameter of the hose that you are going to trace must match the vacuum hose; it will ensure that you did a perfect job with this step.
For making a hole, cut the hole and then place or pass the vacuum hose through it, but you are still not done. One last thing that is left is the reassembling procedure to start the vacuum pump.
You can reassemble it by placing the case in its position, and you will be done. Now you can begin to your vacuum pump.
Safety measures
Here are some of the standard safety measures you need to take during the process;
- Always place the mouth or outlet valve on your opposite side, don’t face it towards yourself.
- Don’t use a compressor or vacuum pump to clean any soft object like clothing etc.
- Always do a test before working with it.
- Wear proper PPE; if you don’t have it at the moment, maintain a safe distance from the machine.
Conclusion
Air compressors and vacuum pumps are two different machines; an air compressor of excellent quality works in refrigerants, freezers, and other units. Considering its better quality and work requirements, you don’t have to buy a new vacuum pump because just converting a vacuum pump into an air compressor can do the job perfectly with a few pennies.
I have talked about the complete procedure on how to make a vacuum pump from an air compressor in five steps to guide you properly, even when you are not an expert.
