KNF N816.1.2KN/T.18 Compact Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The KNF N816.1.2KN/T.18 is a compact, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for precision and reliability in demanding laboratory environments. Based on KNF’s proven dual-head diaphragm architecture, it delivers consistent vacuum performance without lubrication, eliminating contamination risks associated with oil-lubricated systems. Its operating principle relies on reciprocating PTFE-coated or EPDM diaphragms driven by an eccentric cam mechanism—ensuring positive displacement, pulse-dampened flow, and high volumetric efficiency. Designed for applications requiring clean, dry, and chemically resistant vacuum generation—including vacuum filtration, solvent recovery, degassing of solvents or polymer solutions, and inert atmosphere preparation—the N816.1.2 series meets the operational rigor expected in QC labs, academic research facilities, and regulated pharmaceutical development workflows.

Key Features

• Dual-head configuration enables higher volumetric throughput (30 L/min) while maintaining low pulsation and thermal stability during extended operation.
• Oil-free design eliminates oil mist, vapor backstreaming, and routine oil changes—critical for solvent compatibility and GLP-compliant documentation.
• PTFE-coated diaphragms and FFPM or EPDM valve materials provide broad chemical resistance to common organic solvents (e.g., acetone, ethanol, THF), weak acids (e.g., dilute HCl, acetic acid), and alkaline vapors.
• Integrated pressure regulation capability allows connection to optional analog or digital vacuum gauges (e.g., KNF VD 01 or VD 02 series) for real-time feedback and closed-loop control of process vacuum levels.
• Robust polyphenylsulfone (PPS) housing offers dimensional stability across temperature fluctuations (5–40 °C ambient), mechanical resilience, and inherent flame retardancy (UL94 V-0).
• Low-noise operation (<50 dB[A] at 1 m) and minimal vibration enable integration into sensitive instrumentation setups, including analytical balances, glove boxes, and automated liquid handling platforms.
• Rated for continuous 24/7 duty cycle with built-in thermal protection and overload-safe motor winding—no mandatory cooldown intervals required under nominal load conditions.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N816.1.2KN/T.18 is validated for use with non-explosive, non-corrosive-to-materials gases and vapors within its specified chemical compatibility envelope. It is not intended for pumping condensable vapors beyond saturation limits, halogenated hydrocarbons (e.g., chloroform, DCM), strong oxidizers (e.g., nitric oxide, ozone), or abrasive particulates. KNF provides detailed chemical resistance charts (per ASTM D471 and ISO 1817) for all wetted materials—PPS, EPDM, PTFE-coated elastomers, and FFPM—supporting risk assessment per ICH Q5C and USP . The pump complies with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, and carries CE marking with RoHS 2011/65/EU conformity. UL recognition (E201920) confirms compliance with UL 61010-1 for laboratory electrical safety. For GxP environments, optional data loggers and audit-trail-capable controllers (e.g., KNF SmartControl SC-1) support 21 CFR Part 11 alignment when integrated into validated systems.

Software & Data Management

While the base N816.1.2KN/T.18 operates as a standalone analog device, KNF’s ecosystem supports digital integration via optional accessories. The VD 02 digital vacuum gauge provides RS485 Modbus RTU output for logging vacuum setpoints and deviations. When paired with KNF’s SmartControl SC-1 controller, users gain programmable ramp profiles, pressure hold functions, event-triggered alarms, and CSV-exportable runtime logs—including cumulative operating hours, thermal history, and fault codes. All firmware updates and configuration files are managed through KNF’s secure, password-protected web interface (HTTPS-enabled), ensuring traceability and version control in regulated settings. Audit trails meet ALCOA+ principles when deployed with validated IT infrastructure and SOP-defined change control procedures.

Applications

• Vacuum-assisted filtration of aqueous and organic-phase samples using glass or polymeric filter holders (e.g., Buchner funnels, HPLC sample prep plates).
• Solvent recovery from rotary evaporator condensates or distillation traps where oil-free operation prevents cross-contamination.
• Deaeration of adhesives, coatings, resins, and cell culture media prior to casting or dispensing.
• Supporting vacuum ovens and desiccators for moisture-sensitive drying protocols compliant with ISO 12083 and ASTM D2240.
• Providing primary vacuum for mass spectrometry sample introduction systems, GC carrier gas purging, and leak testing fixtures.
• Replacing water aspirators in teaching labs—eliminating wastewater discharge, freezing risks, and variable suction pressure.

FAQ

Is the N816.1.2KN/T.18 suitable for continuous operation in unattended overnight runs?

Yes. Its thermally optimized motor, dual-head load balancing, and IP54-rated enclosure permit uninterrupted 24/7 operation under ambient temperatures ≤40 °C and relative humidity ≤80% non-condensing.
Can this pump handle vapors from ethyl acetate or isopropanol without degradation?

Yes—when equipped with PTFE-coated diaphragms and FFPM valves (model suffix “KT”), it exhibits excellent resistance per KNF’s chemical compatibility database (ref. KNF ChemiGuide v4.2).
Does KNF offer validation documentation (IQ/OQ) for this model?

Standard IQ/OQ templates are available upon request; full qualification support—including protocol development and execution—is provided through KNF’s Global Validation Services team.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for laboratory-grade longevity?

Diaphragm and valve replacement is advised every 10,000 operating hours or biannually—whichever occurs first—using genuine KNF service kits (part no. 055163). No lubrication or calibration is required.
How does this pump compare to water-ring or scroll vacuum technologies in terms of ultimate vacuum?

At 100 mbar (abs), the N816.1.2KN/T.18 achieves deeper vacuum than typical water aspirators (~200–300 mbar) but shallower than high-vacuum scroll pumps (<1 mbar); it is purpose-engineered for medium-vacuum processes where cleanliness and chemical inertness outweigh extreme vacuum depth.