Leybold is taking a big step toward the digitalisation of its product line with a new free online sound check tool for vacuum pumps on its website, which gives immediate feedback regarding the condition of the pumps. This feature initially applies to the Leybold Varodry and Novadry oil-free screw vacuum pumps but will be extended to other pumps in the future. Users record a sequence of their pump's sound with a smartphone or tablet directly at sound.leybold.com or upload the sound file. The sound analysis is then used to determine whether the pump is running properly or if a service is due.
While the human ear can't perceive various pump noises above a certain frequency, the app can quickly and objectively detect the condition of the gears and/or bearings. If deviations occur, they are detected immediately by the test algorithm, and the probability of an error is then displayed.
Dr. Sina Forster, project manager, said: "From an acoustic analysis of the vacuum pump, we can come up with specific recommendations and schedules for service and maintenance work, such as belt changes."
