Atlas Copco’s new screw pump targets efficient vacuum performance

Atlas Copco has expanded its vacuum portfolio with the launch of the GHS 402–902 VSD⁺, a next‑generation oil‑sealed screw pump designed to give food manufacturers higher pumping speeds, lower energy use and more consistent vacuum performance across demanding applications such as food packing, thermoforming and vacuum cooling.

At its core, the new pump delivers vacuum on demand. Traditional vacuum systems typically run at a fixed speed, consuming energy regardless of process requirements. The GHS 402–902 VSD⁺ instead uses constant‑pressure setpoint control to match vacuum output to the exact flow needed at any moment. For processors, that means faster pump‑down times, reduced power consumption and more stable vacuum levels during production.

What the screw pump does for food processors

• Delivers high pumping speed from atmospheric pressure down to ultimate pressure, accelerating packaging cycles and cooling processes.
• Improves energy efficiency by adjusting output to real‑time demand, cutting operating costs in energy‑intensive environments.
• Supports consistent product quality by maintaining stable vacuum levels during sealing, forming and cooling.
• Reduces environmental impact through lower oil discharge, better oil retention and the ability to recover up to 80% of waste heat as hot water.
• Enhances uptime with longer maintenance intervals and a cleaner exhaust stream that protects equipment and the working environment.

Engineering upgrades aimed at modern production

The second‑generation screw element, paired with a high‑efficiency IE5 motor, gives the pump class‑leading performance across the full pressure range. A vertically mounted, oil‑cooled drivetrain reduces noise and shrinks the footprint to under 1 m² — a practical advantage for crowded food‑processing plants.

Oil‑separator improvements halve oil‑discharge levels compared with previous models, while the noise‑dampening canopy makes the unit suitable for both centralised vacuum systems and point‑of‑use installations on the factory floor.

The pump also incorporates Atlas Copco’s HEX controller, enabling remote monitoring, intelligent diagnostics and Industry 4.0‑ready connectivity — a growing requirement for processors seeking tighter control over energy, performance and maintenance planning.