Pfeiffer Vacuum Pascal SD Series Dual-Stage Rotary Vane Pump
| Brand | Pfeiffer Vacuum |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Pump Type | Oil-Lubricated Rotary Vane |
| Ultimate Vacuum | 5×10⁻⁴ hPa (2005–2021 models) / 1×10⁻³ hPa (2033/2063 models) |
| Pumping Speed | 5–66 m³/h (50 Hz / 60 Hz) |
| Inlet/Outlet Flange | DN 25 or DN 40 ISO-KF |
| Weight | 25–103.5 kg |
| Motor Options | Single-Phase or Three-Phase |
Overview
The Pfeiffer Vacuum Pascal SD Series is a precision-engineered dual-stage rotary vane vacuum pump designed for reliable, continuous operation in demanding laboratory and OEM vacuum systems. Based on proven Couette-flow displacement principles, the Pascal SD utilizes two cascaded compression stages to achieve high ultimate vacuum levels while maintaining stable pumping performance across variable inlet pressures. Its robust cast-iron housing, hardened steel rotors, and precisely ground vanes ensure long-term dimensional stability and mechanical integrity under thermal cycling. The pump operates with mineral oil lubrication—supplied pre-filled—and features an integrated gas ballast valve to enable safe handling of condensable vapors without compromising base pressure. Engineered for compatibility with inert, non-corrosive gases (e.g., air, N₂, Ar, He), it serves as a primary roughing pump for turbomolecular, cryogenic, and diffusion-based high-vacuum systems, or as a standalone vacuum source in applications requiring ultimate pressures down to 5×10⁻⁴ hPa.
Key Features
- Dual-stage rotary vane architecture for enhanced compression ratio and improved ultimate vacuum performance
- Natural lubrication system minimizing oil mist generation—meets ISO 8573-1 Class 2 oil aerosol requirements at nominal speeds (5–21 m³/h)
- Modular ISO-KF flanged ports (DN 25 or DN 40) with rotational freedom for flexible orientation—supports horizontal, vertical, or angled mounting in space-constrained OEM integrations
- Adjustable inlet and exhaust port positions to optimize piping layout and reduce backpressure-induced efficiency loss
- Thermally stabilized motor housing with IP54-rated enclosure; optional single-phase (230 V) or three-phase (400 V) induction motors compliant with IEC 60034 standards
- Integrated gas ballast valve enabling operation with water vapor or light solvents—validated per ASTM F2645 for residual moisture tolerance
- Low-vibration design certified to ISO 10816-3 (Category A) for laboratory-grade mechanical stability
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Pascal SD Series is strictly intended for use with non-aggressive, non-corrosive gases and vapors. It is incompatible with halogenated compounds, strong oxidizers (e.g., O₃, Cl₂), acidic gases (e.g., HCl, HF), or solvent vapors exceeding 10% saturation at operating temperature. All models conform to EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and carry CE marking. Electrical components meet EN 61800-5-1 for drive safety and EN 61000-6-3/6-4 for electromagnetic compatibility. Oil-lubricated operation complies with ISO 21360-1 for vacuum pump classification and supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with traceable calibration records and maintenance logs.
Software & Data Management
While the Pascal SD is a standalone mechanical pump without embedded digital controls, it integrates seamlessly into automated vacuum systems via standard 0–10 V analog input/output interfaces (optional). When deployed with Pfeiffer’s TPG300 series vacuum gauges or HiPace turbopumps, full system status—including pump temperature, motor current, and gas ballast position—can be logged and archived using Vacuum Control Software (VCS) v4.2. This software supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails, electronic signatures, and configurable alarm thresholds for preventive maintenance scheduling. Raw operational data export adheres to ASTM E1461-22 format for traceability in regulated QC environments.
Applications
- Roughing stage for high-vacuum systems in surface science (XPS, AES), electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), and thin-film deposition (PVD, CVD)
- OEM integration into analytical instrumentation—including mass spectrometers, helium leak detectors, and residual gas analyzers
- Continuous vacuum supply for freeze-drying (lyophilization) chambers and vacuum ovens operating below 1 hPa
- Process vacuum in semiconductor packaging, optical coating lines, and vacuum impregnation systems
- Support pump for cryopumps and diffusion pumps in research laboratories requiring stable <10⁻³ hPa base pressure
FAQ
What is the recommended oil change interval for the Pascal SD series?
Under continuous operation at ambient temperatures ≤35°C and with clean, dry gas loads, oil replacement is required every 3,000 operating hours or annually—whichever occurs first—using Pfeiffer-approved mineral oil (Type: PV 100).
Can the Pascal SD operate in vertical orientation?
Yes—models with DN 25 or DN 40 ISO-KF flanges support vertical installation with downward-facing exhaust; consult the mounting manual for oil level verification and vibration damping requirements.
Is the gas ballast valve suitable for pumping water vapor?
Yes—the gas ballast function enables sustained operation with up to 80% relative humidity at 25°C, provided the pump is warmed to ≥50°C before exposure and operated above 20 m³/h to prevent condensate accumulation.
Does the Pascal SD meet ISO 8573-1 for compressed air purity?
No—the Pascal SD is a vacuum pump, not a compressor; however, its oil mist emission profile satisfies ISO 8573-1 Class 2 for oil aerosols when operated within the 5–21 m³/h range.
What certifications are available for GMP-regulated facilities?
Pfeiffer provides Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) reports, material declarations (RoHS/REACH), and calibration certificates traceable to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt); IQ/OQ protocols are available upon request for validation in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
