Nash* CL Vacuum Pumps: Rebuilt Units and Drop-In AV-CL Replacements
The Nash CL vacuum pump has earned its reputation as one of the most durable and reliable liquid ring vacuum pumps ever used in heavy industrial service. Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, the CL Series continues to operate across paper mills, chemical plants, food processing facilities, power stations, and medical vacuum systems worldwide.
At Airvac Technical Services, we have spent more than 23 years working hands-on with Nash CL pumps, rebuilding, servicing, supplying parts, and manufacturing drop-in compatible AV-CL replacement pumps. Whether you need a rebuilt unit, a cost-effective replacement, spare parts, or technical documentation, our team helps you keep your vacuum system running with confidence.
What we support:
- Rebuilt Nash CL pumps (CL-2002, CL-3002, CL-4002)
- Drop-in AV-CL replacement pumps
- CL pump spare parts and assemblies
- Technical support and Nash CL documentation
- Fast turnaround solutions to reduce downtime
What Is the Nash CL Series Vacuum Pump?
The Nash CL Series is a large, single-stage liquid ring vacuum pump built for high-capacity, continuous industrial duty. Known for its heavy cast-iron construction and long service life, the CL Series was engineered to handle harsh operating conditions where uptime is critical.
Key Characteristics of the CL Series
- Designed for 24/7 industrial operation
- Robust cast iron construction
- High volumetric capacity
- Stable vacuum performance under fluctuating loads
- Excellent tolerance for wet, dirty, or contaminated process gas
- Proven service life measured in decades, not years
Unlike smaller or lighter vacuum pumps, CL units are typically installed in central vacuum systems, where reliability matters more than footprint. Their design prioritizes durability, ease of maintenance, and consistent performance.
Nash* CL Series Pump Models
The CL Series consists primarily of three core models, each designed to cover different capacity and horsepower ranges while maintaining the same rugged design philosophy.
Nash* CL 2002 Vacuum Pump
The Nash CL 2002 vacuum pump is the smallest model in the CL Series but still a true industrial workhorse.
Typical characteristics:
- Moderate flow capacity for centralized vacuum systems
- Common in medium-sized industrial plants
- Suitable for continuous duty cycles
- Available in cast iron or optional stainless steel configurations
Common applications:
- Paper machine trim systems
- Filtration and dewatering
- Food and beverage vacuum processes
- Utility vacuum systems
Nash* CL 3002 Vacuum Pump
The Nash CL 3002 vacuum pump offers higher airflow and vacuum handling, making it one of the most widely installed CL models.
Why it’s popular:
- Balanced combination of capacity and power
- Excellent performance stability
- Ideal for larger process loads
Typical applications:
- Paper and pulp manufacturing
- Chemical processing
- Pharmaceutical filtration
- Power plant condenser systems
Nash* CL 4002 Vacuum Pump
The Nash CL 4002 vacuum pump is the largest and most powerful model in the CL Series, built for the most demanding industrial environments.
Designed for:
- High-flow, high-horsepower applications
- Large centralized vacuum systems
- Continuous heavy-duty service
Where it’s commonly used:
- Large paper mills
- Power generation facilities
- Heavy manufacturing operations
- Mining and metals processing
CL Series Model Comparison
Feature | CL-2002 | CL-3002 | CL-4002 |
Relative Flow Capacity | Medium | High | Very High |
Horsepower Range | Mid | Mid-High | High |
Vacuum Capability | Deep vacuum capable | Deep vacuum capable | Deep vacuum capable |
Typical Installation | Industrial plants | Paper mills, process plants | Heavy industrial systems |
Material Options | Cast iron / Stainless | Cast iron / Stainless | Cast iron / Stainless |
Specifications shown as structured ranges rather than OEM-specific values.
Nash* CL Vacuum Pump Manual (Guide Section)
The Nash CL vacuum pump manual is an essential resource for operators, maintenance teams, and engineers responsible for CL Series equipment. While OEM manuals may no longer be readily available for all models, Airvac helps customers access technical guidance based on decades of hands-on experience.
What the CL Manual Typically Includes
- Startup and shutdown procedures
- Operating limits and best practices
- Preventive maintenance schedules
- Lubrication requirements
- Parts identification diagrams
- Seal and bearing service guidance
- Safety considerations
- Common troubleshooting steps
Because many CL pumps in operation today are legacy units, proper documentation helps extend service life and avoid unnecessary failures.
Why Industries Still Trust the CL Series Today?
Despite being a legacy design, the CL Series remains widely used because it delivers what industrial facilities value most: reliability and longevity.
Key Reasons the CL Series Endures
- Extremely durable internal components
- Low sensitivity to contaminated process gas
- Stable performance under variable load conditions
- Long maintenance intervals
- Designed for harsh industrial environments
Many CL pumps installed decades ago continue to operate reliably today often with periodic rebuilds rather than full replacement.
Rebuilt Nash CL Pump Services
For many facilities, rebuilding an existing CL pump is the most cost-effective way to restore performance while minimizing downtime.
Benefits of Rebuilt CL Pumps
- 40–60% cost savings compared to new OEM replacements
- Shorter lead times
- Restoration to factory-level performance
- Fully tested prior to shipment
- Available for CL-2002, CL-3002, and CL-4002
Rebuilt pumps are ideal for operations seeking reliability without the expense or delay of new OEM equipment.
Airvac CL Rebuild Process
Every CL rebuild at Airvac follows a structured, repeatable process designed to deliver consistent quality.
Our rebuild process includes:
- Complete teardown and inspection
- Casing and cone restoration
- Impeller re-machining and balancing
- Shaft inspection and correction
- Replacement of bearings, seals, and wear components
- Precision reassembly
- Performance testing under operating conditions
- Final coating, preparation, and shipment
AV-CL: Drop-In Replacement for Nash* CL Pumps
When rebuilding is not the best option, Airvac offers AV-CL replacement pumps engineered as direct, drop-in alternatives to the original CL Series.
AV-CL Replacement Features
- 1:1 dimensional compatibility with CL-2002, CL-3002, CL-4002
- Same mounting, piping, and performance envelope
- Designed for long-term industrial service
- Available in cast iron or stainless steel
- Faster delivery than OEM options
These replacements are designed to install without system modifications, making them ideal for aging CL systems
Nash* CL vs AV-CL Replacement Comparison
Feature | Nash CL Series | AV-CL Replacement |
Fit & Mounting | OEM | Drop-in compatible |
Performance | Proven | Performance-equivalent |
Material Options | Limited | Cast iron / Stainless |
Lead Time | Often extended | Faster availability |
Support | OEM legacy | Direct Airvac support |
Nash* CL Pump Parts & Components
Airvac supplies critical CL Series spare parts to support ongoing maintenance and rebuild programs.
Common CL Parts Available
- Impellers
- Cones
- Casings
- Shafts
- Bearings and seals
- Gland packing kits
- Gaskets and O-rings
- Drive coupling components
Access to high-quality parts helps extend pump life and reduce unplanned outages.
Common Issues with Aging CL Pumps
Over time, even the most durable pumps experience wear.
Typical CL Pump Issues
- Loss of vacuum
- Internal erosion
- Excessive vibration
- Bearing or seal failure
- Water carryover
- Overheating
- Shaft misalignment
Most of these issues can be resolved through proper rebuilds or component replacement rather than full system replacement.
Industries That Use the Nash* CL Series
The CL Series continues to support mission-critical processes across many industries.
Common Industries
- Paper & pulp manufacturing
- Chemical and pharmaceutical processing
- Food and beverage production
- Power generation and utilities
- Medical vacuum systems
- Mining and metals
- General industrial manufacturing
These industries rely on CL pumps because downtime is costly and reliability matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Nash* CL vacuum pump?
A large industrial liquid ring vacuum pump designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
What are the differences between CL-2002, CL-3002, and CL-4002?
The primary differences are flow capacity, horsepower range, and application size.
Are CL pumps still available?
OEM availability is limited, but rebuilt units and drop-in replacements remain widely available.
Do you sell or rebuild Nash CL pumps?
Yes. Airvac offers rebuilt CL pumps, AV-CL replacements, and spare parts.
Do you have the Nash CL manual?
Documentation availability varies. Contact us for technical guidance or manual access.
Are there drop-in replacements for the CL Series?
Yes. Airvac’s AV-CL pumps are engineered as direct replacements.
Can CL pumps be rebuilt?
Absolutely. Rebuilding is a common and cost-effective option.
What industries use CL pumps?
Paper, chemical, food, power, medical, mining, and manufacturing industries.
Contact & Request a Quote
Whether you need a rebuilt pump, replacement unit, spare parts, or technical support, Airvac is ready to help.
Request a Quote for Nash* CL Pumps
Bethel, Connecticut, USA
Or visit our Contact Page to request a quote.
We help you keep your vacuum systems running reliably, affordably, and expertly.
Model
| Nash* | Airvac Equivalent | Suction | Discharge* |
| Nash* CL-400 | AVCL-300 | 3” Flange | 2.5” Flange |
| Nash* CL-700 | AVCL-400 | 4” Flange | 3” Flange |
| Nash* CL-1000 | AVCL-650 | 5” Flange | 4” Flange |
| Nash* CL-1500 | AVCL-900 | 6” Flange | 4” Flange |
| Nash* CL-2000 | AVCL-1250 | 6” Flange | 5” Flange |
| Nash* CL-3000 | AVCL-2500 | 8” Flange | 6” Flange |
| Nash* CL-4000 | AVCL: 4000 | 10” Flange | 8” Flange |
| Nash* CL-6000 | AVCL-6000 | 12” Flange | 10” Flange |
| Nash* CL-9000 | AVCL-9000 | 14” Flange | 12” Flange |
About AV CL Series
• Models: AVCL-400, 700, 1000,1500, 2000, 3000, 4000, 6000, and 9000
• Power Range: 20 HP to 550 HP
• Capacity Range: 300 CFM to 10,000 CFM
• Maximum Vacuum: Up to 28″ Hg
• Materials of Construction (MOC): Cast Iron, Bronze, Stainless Steel 304, Stainless Steel 316 Clad
Features
• Drop-in Replacement: AVCL Series liquid ring vacuum pumps serve as direct replacements for the classic Nash* CL series.
• Construction Options: Standard models feature durable cast iron with packing, with optional upgrades to 304 or 316 stainless steel.
• Optional Viton Seals: Available with optional Viton mechanical seals for enhanced sealing performance.
• Parts and Repair Kits: Easily accessible parts and repair kits ensure convenient maintenance and longevity.
• Engineered Systems: Available as standalone pumps or integrated into engineered systems tailored to specific applications.
• Fast Availability: Standard models are typically stocked for quick shipment and installation.
• Warranty Coverage: Includes a comprehensive 2-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects for peace of mind.
• Heavy Duty Design:
The pumps are built to withstand demanding industrial conditions.
• Single Stage:
They are single-stage pumps, offering a balance of performance and simplicity.
• Wide Capacity Range:
They come in various models with a wide range of suction volumes, vacuums, and pressures.
• Ability to Handle Some Solids
Applications
• Dewatering: The paper industry relies on CL series pumps for dewatering processes in paper machines.
• Vacuum Filtering: Mineral ore processing utilizes these pumps for vacuum filtration.
• Autoclaves: They are used in autoclaves for various processes.
• Carburetor Testing: CL series pumps are also used in carburetor testing.
• Chucking: They are used in chucking applications.
• Condenser Air Removal: Removal of air from condensers is another application.
• Container Filling: These pumps are involved in container filling processes.
• Cooking: CL series pumps are used in cooking applications.
• Deaerating: They are used for deaerating processes.
• Drying: Drying applications, particularly in food processing plants, utilize these pumps.
• Eviscerating: They are used in eviscerating processes.
• Exhausting: Exhausting processes in various industries utilize CL series pumps.
• Molding Pickup and Conveying: They are used in molding and conveying applications.
• Priming: Priming pumps are another application.
• Slot Extraction: CL series pumps are used in slot extraction.
• Solvent Recovery: They are also involved in solvent recovery processes.
• General Industrial Applications: They are also used in a wide range of other general industrial applications.
Spare Parts
