RIETSCHLE THOMAS GH-517B Vacuum Pump

( Brand: Rietschle Thomas ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: GH-517B ), ( Type: Vacuum ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review RIETSCHLE THOMAS Vacuum Pump Model

The **Rietschle Thomas GH-517B** is a high-performance, oil-sealed rotary vane vacuum pump engineered for precision, reliability, and versatility in industrial, laboratory, and manufacturing applications. Part of the renowned **Thomas** series, this pump delivers exceptional suction power with a nominal pumping speed of **517 liters per minute (30.6 m /h)** at a final vacuum of **0.1 mbar (absolute)**, making it ideal for processes requiring deep vacuum levels, such as degassing, distillation, freeze-drying, or vacuum packaging. Its robust **rotary vane design** ensures smooth and consistent operation, minimizing pulsations and maintaining stable pressure control, which is critical for sensitive applications like semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceutical processing, or vacuum metallurgy.

Constructed with **high-grade stainless steel** and precision-engineered components, the GH-517B is built to withstand demanding environments, offering exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The pump features a **sealed oil reservoir** with a **low-maintenance oil circulation system**, allowing for extended service intervals and reduced downtime. The **automatic oil level control** and **integrated oil filter** ensure optimal lubrication and contamination protection, while the **silent operation** (operating at just **55 dB(A)**) makes it suitable for noise-sensitive facilities. Its **compact yet sturdy design** allows for easy integration into existing systems, with a **flanged inlet and outlet** (standard DN63 or DN80) for seamless connectivity to vacuum chambers, tanks, or process lines.

Safety and efficiency are prioritized in the GH-517B s design, featuring a **thermal overload protection** system to prevent overheating and a **vacuum relief valve** to safeguard against sudden pressure surges. The pump s **energy-efficient motor** (typically **0.75 kW or 1.1 kW**, depending on configuration) balances performance with power consumption, reducing operational costs while maintaining high productivity. Additionally, the **user-friendly control panel** includes **digital vacuum gauges** and **adjustable pressure settings**, allowing operators to fine-tune performance for specific applications. Whether used in **vacuum furnaces, chemical processing, or vacuum filtration**, the GH-517B combines **German engineering precision** with **industrial robustness**, delivering consistent, high-quality vacuum performance for years to come.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Rietschle Thomas GH-517B Vacuum Pump**

1. **High Performance and Efficiency** The GH-517B is a robust rotary vane vacuum pump designed for high vacuum applications, making it suitable for industrial processes such as degassing, distillation, and laboratory use. It delivers consistent and reliable performance with a maximum ultimate vacuum of around **10 mbar (0.01 Torr)**, depending on the configuration.

2. **Durable Construction** Built with precision-engineered components, including a **ceramic or metal vane system**, it offers long-term reliability and resistance to wear. The pump is designed for continuous operation, reducing downtime.

3. **Low Maintenance Requirements** Compared to some other vacuum pump types, the GH-517B has relatively simple maintenance needs. The sealed design minimizes contamination, and the vane system can be easily serviced or replaced when necessary.

4. **Versatile Applications** Suitable for a wide range of industries, including **pharmaceuticals, food processing, chemical manufacturing, and research laboratories**. It can handle gases like air, nitrogen, and inert gases without significant performance degradation.

5. **Energy Efficiency** As a rotary vane pump, it operates efficiently within its specified range, consuming moderate power while maintaining high vacuum levels. This makes it cost-effective for continuous use.

6. **Quiet Operation** Relative to some industrial pumps, the GH-517B operates at a lower noise level, which is beneficial in laboratory or cleanroom environments.

7. **Compatibility with Control Systems** Many models come with **digital or analog control interfaces**, allowing integration with larger vacuum systems or automated processes.

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1. **Higher Initial Cost** Compared to basic diaphragm or scroll pumps, the GH-517B is a premium vacuum pump, making it a significant investment. The price reflects its advanced engineering and performance capabilities.

2. **Limited Ultimate Vacuum** While capable of reaching ** 10 mbar**, it is not suitable for ultra-high vacuum (UHV) applications (which require **

3. **Oil Consumption and Contamination Risk** As a lubricated rotary vane pump, it requires **vacuum oil** for sealing and cooling. Over time, oil degradation can occur, and proper filtration is necessary to prevent contamination of the process gas.

4. **Maintenance Dependency** While maintenance is relatively straightforward, it is not maintenance-free. Regular **oil changes, vane inspections, and seal replacements** are required to ensure optimal performance, adding to long-term operational costs.

5. **Size and Installation Space** The GH-517B is a larger unit compared to smaller laboratory pumps, requiring adequate space for installation. This may be a limitation in compact work environments.

6. **Potential for Gas Buildup** If used with reactive or condensable gases (e.g., water vapor, ammonia), the pump may experience **gas loading**, reducing efficiency and requiring additional cooling or filtration.

7. **Limited Lifespan with Heavy-Duty Use** While durable, continuous operation under extreme conditions (e.g., high temperatures, abrasive particles) can shorten the pump s lifespan, necessitating more frequent replacements of wear parts.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Rietschle Thomas GH-517B** is a **high-quality, reliable vacuum pump** well-suited for industrial and semi-industrial applications requiring **medium to high vacuum levels**. Its **durability, efficiency, and versatility** make it a strong choice for processes like degassing, distillation, and laboratory use. However, its **higher cost, oil dependency, and maintenance needs** may not justify its purchase for **low-budget or ultra-high vacuum applications**.

If your application demands **consistent, high-performance vacuum without the need for ultra-low pressures**, this pump is an excellent investment. For **ultra-high vacuum, dry pumping, or cost-sensitive applications**, alternative technologies (e.g., scroll pumps, turbomolecular pumps, or diaphragm pumps) may be more appropriate.

### **Recommendation**

- You require a **reliable, medium-to-high vacuum pump** for industrial or laboratory use.

- Your budget allows for a **premium vacuum solution** with long-term durability.

- You can accommodate **regular maintenance (oil changes, vane inspections)**.

- The pump will operate in **controlled environments** (e.g., clean gases, moderate temperatures).

- You need **ultra-high vacuum (

- Your application involves **highly reactive or condensable gases**, requiring a **dry pump (e.g., scroll or claw pump)**.

- Budget constraints make a **lower-cost pump (e.g., basic rotary vane or diaphragm pump)** a more feasible option.

For most **industrial degassing, distillation, or process vacuum applications**, the GH-517B remains a **strong, well-engineered choice** that balances performance and longevity.

Details:

Our zip code is 37830. For Internal Use: Bar codes: 20816509, Location: 103 Pump Shelf,: Shelf. CHP Consultants Dba Surplus, est. When obtaining a shipping quote, please consider the following information.

part #: gh517b prices

• $119.65-$1295.00

specifications valvplu:

• brand: Rietschle Thomas
• mpn: Gh-517b
• type: Vacuum
• country of origin: United States

general valvplu:

• condition: For parts or not working
• Pumps Pump Accessories > Vacuum Pumps > Other Vacuum Pumps

seller valvplu:

• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 1840
• city: Oak Ridge, Tennessee

payments valvplu:

• other
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• credit card: Visa

shipping valvplu:

• service: UPS Ground, UPS Next Day Air Saver, UPS 3 Day Select, UPS Ground Saver
• carrier: UPS
• cost: $76.45
• type: Calculated
• class: Standard, One-day, Expedited, Economy
• transit: 4-10 Days

returns valvplu:

• method: Money back
• policy: Returns Accepted
• paid by: Buyer
• time: 30 Days

offer valvplu:

• availability: In Stock
• started: April 27, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0
• best offers: True
• quantity: 1

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