VACUUBRAND ME 2C NT Single-Stage Chemically Resistant Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND ME 2C NT is a single-stage, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for reliable, continuous operation in demanding laboratory environments where chemical compatibility, low maintenance, and quiet performance are critical. Based on positive displacement via elastomeric diaphragm oscillation, the ME 2C NT generates vacuum through mechanical expansion and contraction of chemically resistant PTFE-coated diaphragms—eliminating lubricants, oil vapor backstreaming, and associated contamination risks. It is optimized for applications requiring moderate vacuum levels (down to 70 mbar absolute) and high volumetric throughput, such as vacuum drying ovens, multi-position filtration manifolds (single- or multi-channel Büchner or Hirsch filtration), solvent degassing, and inert gas purging. Its robust architecture delivers stable suction even under variable gas loads and extended duty cycles, making it a preferred alternative to water aspirators—avoiding water consumption, wastewater generation, and freeze-related operational failures.

Key Features

• Chemically resistant wetted parts: PTFE-coated diaphragms, EPDM valves, and stainless steel pump head ensure long-term stability when handling aggressive solvents (e.g., acetone, methanol, ethyl acetate), acidic vapors, and mildly corrosive gases.
• Ultra-low vibration and acoustic signature: Precision-balanced motor and elastomeric mounting minimize structural transmission; typical noise emission is 45 dBA at 50 Hz—suitable for shared lab spaces and laminar flow hoods.
• Consistent performance across operating range: Maintains >90% of rated pumping speed down to 100 mbar, enabling efficient evacuation during early-stage drying or filtration without throttling or bypass regulation.
• True maintenance-free drive system: Brushless induction motor with sealed bearings requires no periodic lubrication or replacement over its service life; diaphragm lifetime exceeds 10,000 hours under nominal load conditions.
• Integrated safety compliance: Certified to NRTL standards for the U.S. and Canada; ATEX-certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (Zone 2, Group IIC, T3 temperature class) when operated at 230 V only.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ME 2C NT is compatible with non-condensable gases and low-to-moderate vapor loads from common organic solvents, aqueous solutions, and inert process streams. It is not intended for condensable vapors exceeding 10 g/m³ or particulate-laden streams without upstream cold traps or particulate filters. The pump meets ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 0 for oil-free air (verified by design), complies with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, and adheres to electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1. Its construction supports GLP-compliant documentation workflows when integrated into validated systems, and its sealed electronics meet IP 40 ingress protection for dust resistance in standard laboratory settings.

Software & Data Management

As a standalone analog pump, the ME 2C NT does not include digital control interfaces or embedded firmware. However, it is fully compatible with external vacuum controllers (e.g., VACUUBRAND’s RC 6/RC 10 series) via 0–10 V analog input for pressure-regulated operation. When deployed in networked lab infrastructures, it can be monitored via third-party SCADA or LIMS platforms using optional analog signal converters. All operational parameters—including runtime, thermal status, and motor current—are accessible via external sensors; audit trails for maintenance intervals and calibration events may be maintained manually or via electronic logbooks compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with qualified software.

Applications

• Vacuum drying of heat-sensitive samples in benchtop or chamber ovens (e.g., lyophilization pre-drying, polymer film curing).
• Parallel filtration of up to six samples using multi-port manifolds—maintaining uniform vacuum across all channels without flow balancing valves.
• Solvent removal in rotary evaporation auxiliary systems, particularly where water-cooled traps are impractical.
• Evacuation of glove boxes and desiccators during inert gas purging protocols (N₂, Ar).
• Supporting analytical instrumentation requiring stable, oil-free rough vacuum, including certain mass spectrometer inlets and thermal desorption units.

FAQ

Can the ME 2C NT be used with condensable vapors such as ethanol or chloroform?
Yes—provided vapor concentrations remain below 5–10 g/m³ and a suitable cold trap (e.g., dry ice/isopropanol) is installed upstream to prevent diaphragm swelling or valve clogging.
Is the pump suitable for continuous 24/7 operation?
Yes—its thermally protected motor and passive cooling design support uninterrupted duty cycles within ambient temperatures of 10–40 °C and adequate ventilation.
Does the ME 2C NT require periodic oil changes or lubrication?
No—it is inherently oil-free; no lubricants contact the gas path, and the motor contains sealed-for-life bearings.
What certifications apply to the 230 V version specifically?
The 230 V variant carries ATEX certification (II 3G IIC T3 X) for use in Zone 2 hazardous areas and NRTL listing (UL/cUL) for North America.
How is maintenance scheduled and documented for regulatory compliance?
VACUUBRAND recommends diaphragm inspection every 5,000 operating hours; replacement kits include serialized components traceable to batch and date—supporting GxP-aligned maintenance logs.