VACUUBRAND ME 4R NT Single-Stage Oil-Free Diaphragm Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND ME 4R NT is a single-stage, oil-free diaphragm pump engineered for reliable vacuum generation and controlled overpressure delivery in general laboratory applications. Utilizing a positive displacement principle, the pump operates via reciprocating motion of a reinforced PTFE diaphragm—driven by an eccentric cam mechanism—to alternately expand and compress the gas chamber. This design eliminates the need for lubricating oils, ensuring contamination-free operation critical for analytical sample preparation, filtration, evaporation, and inert gas transfer. The ME 4R NT functions both as a vacuum source (down to ultimate vacuum ≤ 8 mbar abs) and as a low-pressure compressor (up to +0.3 bar gauge), making it uniquely versatile among compact diaphragm pumps. Its robust aluminum housing, chemically resistant wetted parts (PTFE diaphragm, valves, and seals), and precision-machined components reflect VACUUBRAND’s German engineering heritage and adherence to stringent manufacturing tolerances.

Key Features

• Oil-free operation ensures zero hydrocarbon contamination—essential for GC sample introduction, solvent recovery, and trace-level analysis.
• Dual independent regulation: Separate inlet vacuum control valve and outlet pressure control valve enable precise, simultaneous adjustment of suction vacuum and discharge pressure without external instrumentation.
• Integrated analog gauges provide real-time visual monitoring of both inlet vacuum (mbar abs) and outlet pressure (bar gauge), supporting process reproducibility and operator awareness.
• Low-vibration, brushless AC motor with optimized counterbalance delivers stable performance during extended duty cycles—minimizing interference with sensitive balances or optical equipment.
• Extended diaphragm service life achieved through fatigue-resistant PTFE formulation and stress-distributed geometry; no scheduled replacement intervals required under normal non-corrosive use.
• Maintenance-free electromagnetic drive system eliminates gear wear, belt slippage, or bearing lubrication needs—reducing total cost of ownership and downtime.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ME 4R NT is specifically designed for non-corrosive, dry, and condensable-free gases—including ambient air, nitrogen, argon, and helium. It is not rated for solvent vapors, acidic or alkaline gases, or particulate-laden streams. All fluid-contact surfaces consist of aluminum (housing), PTFE (diaphragm, inlet/outlet valves, and seals), and EPDM gaskets—materials selected for broad chemical compatibility and dimensional stability. The pump complies with CE marking requirements (2014/30/EU EMC Directive, 2014/35/EU LVD Directive) and is manufactured under ISO 9001-certified quality management systems. While not intrinsically safe, its construction supports integration into GLP- and GMP-aligned workflows where documented vacuum consistency, audit-ready operational logs (when paired with optional VACUU·SELECT controller), and material traceability are required.

Software & Data Management

As a standalone mechanical pump, the ME 4R NT does not include embedded firmware or digital connectivity. However, it is fully compatible with VACUUBRAND’s VACUU·SELECT vacuum controllers (e.g., VACUU·SELECT NT) for automated setpoint control, data logging, and protocol-based vacuum ramping. When interfaced via analog 0–10 V or 4–20 mA signals, the pump supports integration into LabVIEW, SCADA, or LIMS environments. All analog gauge readings may be manually recorded per SOPs; for regulated environments, users may implement external pressure transducers with FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data acquisition systems to meet electronic record integrity requirements.

Applications

• Routine vacuum filtration of aqueous or organic solutions in chemistry and biology labs.
• Rotary evaporation support—providing stable, oil-free vacuum for solvent removal from heat-sensitive compounds.
• Gas purging of reaction vessels, glove boxes, or sample storage containers using inert gases.
• Controlled aspiration in liquid handling workstations and automated sample prep systems.
• Low-pressure compression for gentle sample transfer, air knife drying, or membrane pressurization in filtration modules.
• Backup or auxiliary vacuum source in multi-pump vacuum manifolds requiring redundancy and chemical isolation.

FAQ

Is the ME 4R NT suitable for corrosive or solvent-laden vapors?
No. The pump is strictly intended for non-corrosive, dry gases. Exposure to halogenated solvents, acids, bases, or condensable vapors will degrade PTFE components and void warranty.
What is the ultimate vacuum level achievable with the ME 4R NT?
The specified ultimate vacuum is ≤ 8 mbar absolute under clean, dry conditions at 20 °C ambient temperature, measured at the inlet port using a calibrated capacitance manometer.
Can the pump operate continuously for 24/7 applications?
Yes—designed for continuous duty with thermal protection and stable thermal dissipation; however, sustained operation near maximum vacuum or pressure limits should be verified against application-specific thermal load profiles.
Does the ME 4R NT require periodic oil changes or lubrication?
No. It is a fully oil-free system; no lubricants are used in the gas path or drive train.
Is technical documentation available in English?
Yes—VACUUBRAND provides comprehensive English-language operating manuals, dimensional drawings, compliance certificates, and maintenance guidelines via their global support portal.