Agilent AX-65 Oil Diffusion Pump
| Brand | Agilent Technologies |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | AX-65 |
| Pump Type | Oil-Based High-Vacuum Diffusion Pump |
| Pumping Speed — He/H₂ | 90 L/s |
| Pumping Speed — Air | 65 L/s |
| Weight | 8 lbs (3.63 kg) |
| Cooling Method | Air-Cooled |
| Prevacuum Requirement | ≥ 0.25 m³/h (0.15 cfm) |
| Ultimate Pressure | ≤ 6.5 × 10⁻⁸ mbar |
| Maximum Forepressure (Loaded) | 0.78 mbar |
| Oil Capacity | 30 mL |
| Warm-up Time | 7 min |
| Cool-down Time | 10 min |
| Oil Return Rate | 2 × 10⁻⁴ mg/cm²/min |
| Electrical Input | Single-phase, 50/60 Hz, 90/115/165/220 V |
Overview
The Agilent AX-65 is a compact, air-cooled oil diffusion pump engineered for high-vacuum applications requiring rapid pump-down, exceptional helium/hydrogen pumping efficiency, and space-constrained integration. Operating on the principle of vapor jet momentum transfer, the AX-65 utilizes thermally stabilized silicone oil vapor directed through a multi-stage nozzle assembly to entrain gas molecules from the vacuum chamber toward the foreline. Its vertically oriented finned heater design ensures uniform thermal distribution across the boiler, minimizing oil degradation and enabling stable, repeatable pumping performance—particularly critical for light-gas species such as helium and hydrogen. With an ultimate pressure capability down to 6.5 × 10⁻⁸ mbar and a maximum forepressure tolerance of 0.78 mbar under full load, the AX-65 bridges the operational gap between roughing pumps and ultra-high-vacuum systems. It is specifically designed for OEM integration into analytical instrumentation—including gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), electron microscopy sample preparation stations, and benchtop centrifugal vacuum concentrators—where footprint, thermal management, and hydrocarbon-free vacuum integrity are essential.
Key Features
- Compact vertical architecture (8 lbs / 3.63 kg) optimized for embedded system integration in GC-MS, vacuum desiccators, and small-scale deposition tools
- Finned vertical heating element with integrated thermal cutoff switch—ensures consistent boiler temperature and automatic shutdown during overtemperature events
- Three-stage nozzle configuration with dedicated jet stages that enhance vapor condensation efficiency and reduce backstreaming contamination
- Integrated oil-level sight glass for real-time visual verification of oil volume (30 mL capacity), eliminating need for disassembly during routine maintenance
- Optional opaque baffle or water-cooled cap available to suppress radiative heat transfer and further minimize hydrocarbon migration into the vacuum chamber
- Fast thermal cycle: 7-minute warm-up to full pumping speed; 10-minute cool-down to safe handling temperature
- Low oil return rate of 2 × 10⁻⁴ mg/cm²/min—measured per ASTM F1420—ensuring compatibility with mass-sensitive detectors and surface analysis instruments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AX-65 is compatible with standard ISO-KF 25/40 and CF 1.33″ flange configurations, supporting seamless mechanical coupling to common forepumps (e.g., diaphragm or scroll pumps rated ≥ 0.25 m³/h). Its operating pressure range (3.9 × 10⁻³ to 6.5 × 10⁻⁸ mbar) aligns with ISO 21360-1 requirements for high-vacuum pump characterization. The pump meets UL 61010-1 and IEC 61000-6-3 EMC emission standards. While not inherently compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its analog control interface and stable output enable traceable vacuum process logging when paired with validated data acquisition hardware and software meeting GLP/GMP audit trail requirements.
Software & Data Management
The AX-65 operates as a standalone analog device without embedded firmware or digital communication ports. Vacuum system integration relies on external monitoring via thermocouple or capacitance manometers connected to host instrumentation control platforms (e.g., LabVIEW, Agilent MassHunter, or custom PLC-based logic). For regulated environments, users may implement third-party vacuum system controllers featuring audit-trail-capable event logging, password-protected parameter adjustment, and electronic signature support—fully compatible with ISO/IEC 17025 and 21 CFR Part 11 validation protocols when configured per organizational SOPs.
Applications
- Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) systems requiring stable high vacuum (<1 × 10⁻⁶ mbar) with minimal hydrocarbon background
- Vacuum drying and lyophilization of biological samples where low ultimate pressure and rapid pump-down reduce processing time
- Thin-film deposition setups (e.g., thermal evaporation) demanding high pumping speed for reactive gases like H₂ and He
- Electron beam sample preparation stations requiring clean, vibration-free vacuum environments
- OEM vacuum modules for portable analytical devices where weight, power consumption, and cooling simplicity are prioritized
FAQ
What is the recommended forepump pairing for the AX-65?
A scroll or dry diaphragm pump rated ≥ 0.25 m³/h (0.15 cfm) is required to maintain forepressure below 0.78 mbar under full load.
Can the AX-65 be operated continuously at ultimate pressure?
Yes—its thermal design supports continuous operation at ≤ 6.5 × 10⁻⁸ mbar provided the foreline is adequately cooled and the chamber exhibits low outgassing rates (<1 × 10⁻⁹ mbar·L/s·cm²).
Is pump oil included with the AX-65?
No—Agilent recommends using certified diffusion pump oil (e.g., DC-704 or equivalent ISO VG 50 silicone fluid); 30 mL is required for initial fill.
Does the AX-65 require water cooling?
No—it is fully air-cooled; optional water-cooled caps are available only for specialized low-backstreaming configurations.
How is pump readiness indicated?
An optional “Ready” thermal switch provides discrete 24 VDC signal output when boiler temperature reaches operational setpoint (typically ~220 °C).
