Vacuum pressure impregnation equipment

FADOKTOR

Vacuum–pressure impregnation systems

The impregnation system (autoclave, vacuum pressure impregnation equipment – VPIE) introduces wood preservatives into the internal structure of the timber by applying vacuum and pressure.

Compared to soaking tank solutions, this technology ensures deeper and more controlled penetration, especially for timber exposed to high mechanical or environmental loads.

For pressure impregnation, we offer impregnation cylinders in various diameters and lengths, tailored to customer requirements. The steel structures of the cylinders are manufactured from materials selected according to the operating pressure.

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for high-pressure salt-based impregnation and non-pressure soaking preservation treatments

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for the application of boron- and copper-based wood preservatives in aqueous solutions

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impregnation cylinders available in various diameters and lengths

Request a quote: bence.katona@fadoktor-mi.hu

Impregnation system parameters

Diameter

1,8 m
2,3 m

Length

8 m
15 m

Operating temperature

180 °C
130 °C

Operating pressure

8 bar
6 bar

Gallery

Autoclave used for rubber vulcanization in Russia

Autoclave for steaming applications in Slovakia

Autoclave manufactured for the Forestry University

How does the impregnation system work?

01

The timber is placed into the autoclave on rail trolleys

A vacuum is created, removing air from the wood’s pores

02

The impregnating solution is filled into the chamber

03

Under pressure, the wood preservative is deeply absorbed into the timber

04

The solution is drained back and the treated wood is removed

05

Main structural components of the autoclave

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Locking mechanism

One of the most important structural units
Pressure generated inside the operating chamber ensures safe locking
Closing lid equipped with rings and a hydraulic system, using rubber seals of various cross-sections

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Rails and trolleys

Movement of timber to be treated on internal rails using rail trolleys
Special design prevents the trolleys from floating during operation
Rigid, solid structural steel construction
Trolley wheels with ball bearings
External rails connected to the cylinder, designed according to customer requirements
Movement by simple manual operation or powered drive

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Storage tanks

Used for storing the impregnating solution
Rectangular, cuboid-shaped steel tanks
Capacity is typically about 30% larger than that of the autoclave, allowing operation even with smaller timber loads and reducing the need for frequent refilling
Installation options:
- Below the autoclave (most common):
- Advantage: the autoclave can be drained by gravity, reducing the number of valves and pipelines required for operation
- Disadvantage: the structure must be installed on a concrete foundation
- Beside or behind the impregnation cylinder:
- Emptying the autoclave requires transfer pumps and additional valves

Autoclave operation

Process monitoring:

To supervise the impregnation process, the autoclave is equipped with control instruments:

visual and digital pressure gauges
electromagnetic flow meter

Pressure pump

Used to generate pressure inside the autoclave
Centrifugal pumps up to 16 bar

Safety

Each autoclave is equipped with a spring-loaded safety valve

Vacuum pump

Used to create vacuum (-0.85 bar) inside the autoclave
Water-ring pumps with performance depending on tank capacity

Valves and piping

High-quality valves and pipes are used to ensure safe operation
Valve control: electric or pneumatic

Float switch

Stops the vacuum pump when the autoclave is filled with impregnating solution

Control system

Control mode: manual or automatic
Most of the equipment is fitted with a fully automated PLC-controlled system
The touch screen allows setting of impregnation parameters
The system enables data recording (e.g. pressure and flow values) during impregnation, which can later be displayed in logs (Excel format) or as printed reports
All listed components are installed in the electrical control cabinet together with other necessary elements (relays, switches, etc.)

ABOUT US

Fadoktor Mérnöki Iroda Kft., its predecessor, and the members of the Rebinium Group have been a family-owned business since 2000, engaged in wood protection, the manufacturing and distribution of sawmill and further-processed wood products, general contracting for roof renovations and CLT buildings, as well as the design and construction of playgrounds.