Pfeiffer Vacuum HiScroll 18 Dry Scroll Vacuum Pump

Overview

The Pfeiffer Vacuum HiScroll 18 is a compact, oil-free dry scroll vacuum pump engineered for reliable, maintenance-light operation in demanding laboratory and light industrial environments. Based on proven scroll compression technology, the HiScroll 18 achieves vacuum generation through two interleaved spiral scrolls—one fixed, one orbiting—creating progressively smaller gas pockets that move radially inward toward the center, where gas is discharged at atmospheric pressure. This positive displacement mechanism eliminates the need for lubricating oil in the pumping chamber, ensuring hydrocarbon-free vacuum conditions essential for analytical instrumentation (e.g., mass spectrometry sample introduction, residual gas analysis), thin-film deposition pre-vacuum stages, and cleanroom-compatible processes. With a nominal pumping speed of 18.1 m³/h (5.03 L/s) and an ultimate pressure of 6 × 10⁻³ hPa (6 × 10⁻⁴ mbar), the HiScroll 18 bridges the performance gap between diaphragm pumps and larger screw or turbomolecular systems—delivering higher throughput and lower base pressure without introducing contamination risks associated with oil vapor backstreaming.

Key Features

• Oil-free dry scroll technology ensures contaminant-free vacuum, eliminating oil changes, filter replacements, and associated downtime.
• Integrated variable-speed drive enables precise control over pumping speed (624–1,870 rpm), allowing dynamic adaptation to process load, energy optimization, and gentle handling of sensitive samples.
• Robust cast aluminum housing and precision-machined stainless-steel scrolls provide long-term dimensional stability and resistance to chemical exposure from common solvents and process gases.
• Low-noise operation at 47 dB(A) and minimal mechanical vibration support integration into noise-sensitive laboratory spaces—including gloveboxes, analytical instrument enclosures, and shared core facilities.
• Universal power supply (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) and IP20-rated enclosure facilitate global deployment without voltage conversion or additional environmental shielding.
• Explosion-proof variant certified to ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU: Ex II 3G Ex h IIC T4 Gc X, rated for use in Zone 2/22 hazardous areas with ambient temperature limits of +5 °C to +40 °C.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HiScroll 18 is compatible with non-corrosive, non-condensable gases and low-vapor-pressure vapors typical in vacuum drying, solvent degassing, vacuum filtration, and vacuum oven evacuation. It is not intended for continuous pumping of high-humidity air, aggressive halogenated compounds, or large volumes of condensable vapors without optional gas ballast or upstream cold traps. The pump complies with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. Its explosion-proof configuration meets IEC 60079-0 and IEC 60079-15 standards. While not intrinsically calibrated, the pump supports integration into GLP/GMP workflows when paired with validated pressure transducers and data logging systems compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures.

Software & Data Management

The HiScroll 18 operates as a standalone unit with local push-button control and LED status indicators. For system-level integration, it features a standard RS-485 interface (Modbus RTU protocol) enabling remote start/stop, speed modulation, fault monitoring (e.g., overtemperature, overload), and real-time operational feedback (speed, current draw, runtime hours). Optional analog 0–10 V or 4–20 mA inputs allow closed-loop pressure control when used with compatible vacuum gauges. All communication interfaces are galvanically isolated to prevent ground-loop interference in multi-instrument vacuum systems. Firmware updates are performed via USB using Pfeiffer’s proprietary PumpControl software, which also supports configuration backup, event log export (CSV), and audit trail generation for quality-critical applications.

Applications

• Pre-evacuation stage for turbomolecular and cryogenic pumps in UHV and HV systems.
• Vacuum backing for mass spectrometers, electron microscopes, and surface analysis tools requiring hydrocarbon-free roughing.
• Continuous-duty operation in vacuum ovens, freeze dryers, and lyophilizers where oil contamination must be avoided.
• Process vacuum for physical vapor deposition (PVD), plasma etching, and sputtering systems with moderate outgassing loads.
• Routine lab tasks including vacuum filtration, degassing of solvents and resins, and sample preparation under inert atmosphere.
• Mobile or modular vacuum systems where footprint, weight (<23 kg), and electrical simplicity are prioritized.

FAQ

Can the HiScroll 18 be used as a direct replacement for an oil-sealed rotary vane pump?
Yes—provided the application does not involve high concentrations of condensable vapors or corrosive gases. Its oil-free design eliminates oil mist emissions and disposal concerns, but users should verify compatibility with process chemistry and consider gas ballast or condensate traps if water vapor load exceeds 10 g/h.
Does the pump require periodic maintenance beyond routine inspection?
No scheduled maintenance is required under normal operating conditions. The sealed scroll assembly has no wearing parts in contact during operation; recommended actions include annual visual inspection of inlet filter, verification of cooling airflow, and cleaning of external heat sinks.
Is the HiScroll 18 suitable for cleanroom Class 5 (ISO 5) environments?
Yes—the absence of oil, low particle shedding, and vibration-damped mounting make it appropriate for ISO 5 installations when installed with ISO-KF stainless steel tubing and validated particulate filtration on the exhaust line.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?
Based on accelerated lifetime testing per DIN EN 60068-2, the scroll set maintains performance specifications for ≥20,000 hours at rated speed and ambient temperature ≤35 °C, assuming stable power supply and adequate ventilation.
Can the pump operate unattended overnight in a university teaching lab?
Yes—its integrated thermal protection, stall detection, and fail-safe shutdown logic meet IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity and IEC 61000-4-4 EFT requirements for unsupervised academic use. Remote monitoring via Modbus is recommended for extended无人值守 runs.