VACUUBRAND ME 1 Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND ME 1 Diaphragm Vacuum Pump is a compact, oil-free laboratory vacuum source engineered for precision, reliability, and chemical resistance in routine filtration and low-vacuum applications. Based on the proven MD 1 platform, the ME 1 integrates an optimized electromagnetic drive system and PTFE-coated diaphragm and valve assembly to deliver consistent performance with minimal maintenance requirements. It operates on the principle of positive displacement via oscillating PTFE diaphragms, generating vacuum through cyclic expansion and contraction of the pump chamber—eliminating oil contamination, hydrocarbon backstreaming, and associated safety or analytical interference. Designed specifically for single-station vacuum filtration (e.g., Buchner funnel or membrane filtration), the ME 1 achieves an ultimate absolute pressure of 100 mbar (75 torr) and delivers up to 0.85 m³/h at 60 Hz, making it suitable for aqueous, mildly aggressive, and organic solvent-based sample preparation workflows in chemistry, microbiology, environmental testing, and quality control laboratories.

Key Features

• Top-mounted power switch for intuitive, one-touch operation—reducing bench clutter and improving workflow ergonomics
• Ultra-quiet operation (45 dBA at 50 Hz) and minimal mechanical vibration due to balanced electromagnetic actuation and integrated muffler
• Chemically inert fluid path: PTFE diaphragm, PTFE valves, and aluminum pump head ensure compatibility with acids, bases, alcohols, and halogenated solvents
• Sealed, brushless electromagnetic drive mechanism—no lubrication, no wear-prone brushes, and no scheduled motor servicing
• Compact footprint (247 × 121 × 145 mm) and lightweight design (5.0 kg) for flexible placement on crowded lab benches or inside fume hoods
• IP 40-rated enclosure provides protection against solid objects ≥1 mm and limited ingress of vertically falling water droplets

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ME 1 is validated for use with standard laboratory filtration media—including cellulose acetate, nylon, PVDF, and PTFE membranes—as well as glass fiber and sintered glass funnels. Its dry, oil-free operation ensures sample integrity across GLP- and GMP-aligned environments where residual hydrocarbons could compromise downstream analysis (e.g., HPLC sample prep or trace metal quantification). The pump meets NRTL certification requirements for electrical safety in both the United States and Canada. For installations in potentially explosive atmospheres, the 230 V variant complies with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU (Category II 3G, Zone 2, Gas Group IIC, Temperature Class T3), certified for internal atmosphere use only. All units are supplied fully assembled and ready for immediate connection to standard DN 6–10 mm vacuum tubing.

Software & Data Management

The ME 1 is a standalone, manually operated vacuum source without embedded microcontrollers or digital interfaces. As such, it does not incorporate firmware, data logging, or network connectivity. This architecture aligns with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 6.4.10 (equipment suitability) and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles for instruments where electronic records are not generated—eliminating validation overhead related to software qualification, audit trails, or user access controls. When paired with optional accessories such as the vacuum regulator valve (Order No. 696842) featuring an integrated analog vacuum gauge, users can manually adjust inlet flow and monitor real-time absolute pressure—supporting method reproducibility in SOP-driven filtration protocols.

Applications

• Routine vacuum-assisted filtration of biological suspensions, precipitates, or particulate-laden wastewater samples
• Pre-concentration and clarification steps prior to spectrophotometric, chromatographic, or elemental analysis
• Evaporative concentration of volatile analytes under reduced pressure
• Support vacuum for desiccators, vacuum ovens (low-temp drying), and simple distillation setups
• Gas sampling and trapping in environmental monitoring (e.g., VOC collection onto sorbent tubes)

FAQ

Is the ME 1 suitable for continuous 24/7 operation?
The ME 1 is rated for intermittent duty cycles typical of filtration tasks (e.g., 30–90 min per session). Continuous operation beyond 4 hours without cooling intervals may reduce diaphragm service life; consult the Operation Manual for thermal derating guidelines.
Can I connect the ME 1 directly to a water aspirator manifold?
No—the ME 1 is not designed for series or parallel manifold configurations. It is intended exclusively for single-point vacuum supply. Manifold use risks pressure imbalance, flow restriction, and premature diaphragm fatigue.
What vacuum tubing sizes are compatible with the inlet port?
The DN 6/10 mm dual-bore inlet accepts standard silicone or reinforced PVC vacuum tubing with inner diameters of 6 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm—matched to part numbers 686000, 686001, and 686002 respectively.
Does the pump require periodic oil changes or filter replacements?
No. As an oil-free diaphragm pump with sealed electromagnetic drive, the ME 1 has zero consumable maintenance items. Only visual inspection of tubing integrity and periodic cleaning of the exhaust muffler are recommended per VACUUBRAND Maintenance Schedule 2023.
Is the ATEX certification valid for all voltage variants?
ATEX compliance applies solely to the 230 V~ 50–60 Hz version (Order No. 721001). The 115 V variant is not ATEX-certified and must not be deployed in classified hazardous areas.