VACUUBRAND MZ 2C EX ATEX-Certified Explosion-Proof Chemical Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND MZ 2C EX is an ATEX-certified, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for safe and reliable operation in potentially explosive atmospheres—specifically Zone 1 (gas) and Zone 2 (gas), as defined under Directive 2014/34/EU. Designed for laboratory applications where flammable solvents, vapors, or reactive chemical species are routinely handled—such as rotary evaporation, vacuum drying, solvent recovery, and vacuum filtration—the MZ 2C EX eliminates the fire and contamination risks associated with oil-lubricated systems. Its dual-stage diaphragm architecture delivers stable vacuum performance down to 12 mbar (absolute) without lubricants, while maintaining high chemical resistance across all wetted surfaces. The pump operates directly from standard 230 V~ / 50 Hz single-phase power, integrating a flameproof motor (II 2G Ex d IIB T4 Gb) and explosion-proof housing compliant with EN 60079-0, -1, and -7. Critical safety features—including an integrated overpressure relief valve on the exhaust side, self-locking thermal overload protection, and a mechanically redundant diaphragm rupture detection system—ensure continuous compliance with IEC 60079-11 intrinsic safety principles and EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.

Key Features

• ATEX-certified for both pump chamber (II 2G IIC T3 X) and external environment (II 2G Ex d IIB T4 Gb), enabling use in hazardous areas without additional enclosures
• Chemically inert wetted materials: PTFE-coated diaphragms, EPDM elastomers, and stainless steel 316L components ensure compatibility with aggressive solvents (e.g., acetone, THF, chloroform, DCM) and corrosive vapors
• Integrated gas ballast port for inert gas (N₂ or Ar) purging—reducing condensable vapor accumulation and extending diaphragm service life during high-volatility applications
• Two-stage diaphragm design delivering 1.9 m³/h pumping speed at 50 Hz, optimized for rapid evacuation of moderate-volume systems (e.g., 20–50 L rotary evaporators)
• IP54-rated enclosure with robust aluminum alloy housing, suitable for continuous operation within ambient temperatures of 10–40 °C
• Low-noise operation (50 dB(A)) and vibration-damped mounting facilitate integration into shared lab spaces and automated platforms
• Built-in pressure-relief valve on exhaust line prevents backflow-induced overpressure; diaphragm failure detection triggers immediate shutdown per EN 62061 SIL 2 requirements

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MZ 2C EX is validated for handling non-condensable gases and low-to-moderate vapor loads typical of organic synthesis, pharmaceutical processing, and analytical sample preparation. It is not intended for continuous pumping of highly condensable vapors (>10% by volume) or particulate-laden streams without upstream cold traps or filters. All wetted materials comply with FDA 21 CFR 177.2400 (food-contact-grade elastomers) and EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004. The pump meets ISO 8573-1 Class 0 purity requirements for oil-free compressed air/vacuum generation and conforms to GLP-relevant operational traceability standards when paired with VACUUBRAND’s optional digital controller (VC 100). Full documentation—including EU Declaration of Conformity, ATEX Certificate (TÜV 09 ATEX 114002 X), and material compatibility charts—is supplied with each unit.

Software & Data Management

While the MZ 2C EX operates as a standalone analog device, it supports seamless integration into networked lab environments via optional accessories. The VC 100 digital vacuum controller (sold separately) provides real-time pressure monitoring, programmable ramp profiles, event logging, and audit-trail-capable data export (CSV/Excel) compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. All operational parameters—including runtime hours, thermal events, and overpressure activations—are timestamped and stored locally for GLP/GMP audits. Firmware updates are delivered via USB interface, and configuration backups can be archived for instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) protocols.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation of flammable solvents (e.g., ethanol, diethyl ether, ethyl acetate) under ATEX-compliant conditions
• Vacuum drying of thermally sensitive APIs and catalysts in pharmaceutical R&D labs
• Distillation and fractional crystallization workflows requiring inert atmosphere maintenance
• Gas sampling and headspace analysis in environmental and forensic laboratories
• Evacuation of gloveboxes and Schlenk lines prior to inert gas purging
• Supporting vacuum-assisted filtration in chemical synthesis and polymer characterization

FAQ

What ATEX zones is the MZ 2C EX certified for?
It is certified for Zone 1 (II 2G IIC T3 X) in the pumped gas chamber and Zone 1 (II 2G Ex d IIB T4 Gb) for the motor housing. With inert gas purging, the external environment rating extends to Zone 1 (II 2G IIB T4 X); without purging, it remains rated for Zone 2.
Can the pump handle water vapor or solvent condensates?
Yes—but only intermittently and at low partial pressures. For sustained operation with condensables, use the integrated gas ballast port with nitrogen purge and install a chilled trap upstream.
Is the pump compatible with vacuum controllers from other manufacturers?
Mechanically, yes—via standard KF DN 16 flanges. Electrically, it accepts 0–10 V or 4–20 mA analog control signals only when equipped with the VC 100 controller; the base MZ 2C EX model has no built-in communication interface.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Diaphragms should be inspected every 3,000 operating hours or annually (whichever occurs first); replacement kits include PTFE diaphragms, EPDM valves, and stainless steel springs. No oil changes or lubrication are required.
Does the pump meet ISO/IEC 17025 calibration requirements?
While the pump itself is not calibratable as a measurement device, its performance parameters (ultimate vacuum, pumping speed) are factory-tested per ISO 21809 and documented in the Certificate of Conformance. Traceable calibration of connected gauges (e.g., Pirani or capacitance manometers) is required for accredited testing.