VACUUBRAND MD 4C NT+2AK Chemical Vacuum System

Overview

The VACUUBRAND MD 4C NT+2AK is a chemically resistant, oil-sealed rotary vane vacuum system engineered for demanding laboratory applications in chemistry, biochemistry, and pharmaceutical R&D. It operates on the principle of positive displacement via precision-machined vanes rotating within an eccentric stator chamber, generating continuous suction through sequential compression and exhaust cycles. Designed specifically for solvent-intensive workflows—such as rotary evaporation, vacuum concentration, freeze-drying, and inert-atmosphere glove box evacuation—the system delivers stable, low-vibration performance across a wide operational vacuum range (1.5 mbar ultimate without gas ballast; 3 mbar with gas ballast). Its dual-stage configuration (4-vane pump head with 3-stage compression architecture) ensures efficient removal of high-boiling-point solvents—including DMSO, DMF, ethylene glycol, and chlorinated hydrocarbons—without premature oil degradation or vapor lock.

Key Features

• Chemical resistance optimized via fluorocarbon-treated vanes, stainless-steel springs, and specially formulated vacuum oil compatible with aggressive vapors (e.g., HCl, HNO₃, acetone, THF)
• Dual separation bottles: inlet-side glass trap with protective polymer film prevents particulate ingress and liquid carryover; outlet-side condensate collector minimizes backstreaming and dampens exhaust noise
• Integrated gas ballast valve enables continuous operation under saturated vapor loads while maintaining reproducible base pressure
• Low-noise, low-vibration motor assembly (45 dBA at 50 Hz) housed in rigid aluminum die-cast chassis for benchtop stability
• IP 40-rated enclosure provides protection against solid objects ≥1 mm and limited ingress of dust—suitable for standard ISO Class 7–8 laboratory environments
• Pre-assembled and factory-tested: ready for immediate integration with common lab equipment via DN 10 mm hose connections

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MD 4C NT+2AK is validated for use with non-explosive, non-toxic, and non-oxygen-rich process gases and vapors. It complies with NRTL requirements for electrical safety in North America (UL/CSA 61010-1) and meets ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU for Zone 2 hazardous areas (II 3G IIC T3 X classification, applicable to 230 V models only). While not intrinsically safe for flammable solvent vapors in open systems, it supports GLP-compliant workflows when paired with appropriate cold traps and pressure monitoring. The system does not require validation per FDA 21 CFR Part 11; however, its mechanical consistency, traceable calibration history (via optional service documentation), and stable vacuum output support audit-ready quality control protocols in GMP-regulated labs.

Software & Data Management

This is a standalone, analog-operated vacuum system with no embedded microcontroller or digital interface. All operational parameters—including inlet pressure, motor status, and gas ballast position—are monitored manually using external gauges or integrated pressure sensors in connected instrumentation (e.g., vacuum controllers on rotary evaporators or concentrators). For laboratories requiring electronic logging, compatibility is maintained with third-party vacuum monitoring systems via standard 0–10 V or 4–20 mA analog outputs (when used with optional VACUUBRAND VC 3000 controller). No firmware updates, password protection, or audit trail functionality are included—consistent with IEC 62304 Class A medical device software exemptions for purely electromechanical laboratory hardware.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation of thermally sensitive compounds under controlled vacuum (e.g., natural product isolation, peptide synthesis)
• Vacuum concentration of aqueous and organic extracts prior to HPLC or LC-MS analysis
• Desiccation and vacuum drying of hygroscopic solids and lyophilized intermediates
• Evacuation and purging of Schlenk lines, reaction flasks, and storage desiccators
• Supporting vacuum-assisted filtration and membrane degassing in analytical sample preparation
• Back-up vacuum source for mass spectrometry inlet systems requiring stable roughing pressure

FAQ

What vacuum level can the MD 4C NT+2AK achieve with high-boiling solvents?
When handling solvents with boiling points above 150 °C (e.g., glycerol, polyethylene glycols), the system maintains ≤3 mbar absolute pressure with gas ballast engaged—sufficient for most concentration and drying protocols requiring moderate vacuum.

Is the pump oil included, and how often must it be changed?
A full charge of VACUUBRAND’s FPM-compatible vacuum oil (type: VARIO 20) is pre-installed. Oil change intervals depend on solvent load: every 500 operating hours under light use; every 200 hours under continuous high-vapor conditions. Oil analysis kits (part no. 686010) are available for routine verification.

Can this system be used with a vacuum controller for automated pressure regulation?
Yes—when paired with the optional VACUUBRAND VC 3000 vacuum controller (sold separately), the MD 4C NT+2AK supports closed-loop pressure setpoint control via analog feedback and proportional gas ballast modulation.

Does the ATEX certification apply to all voltage variants?
No—ATEX compliance is restricted to the 230 V~ 50–60 Hz version (order code 36600). The 115 V variant is certified to UL/CSA standards only and is not rated for hazardous locations.

What maintenance is required beyond oil changes?
Annual inspection of vane wear, spring tension, and seal integrity is recommended. VACUUBRAND-certified service centers perform full rebuilds using OEM parts (vanes, shaft seals, stator liners) with documented traceability per ISO/IEC 17025 calibration practices.