KNF N950.50 KNDC B DC Brushless Motor Diaphragm Vacuum Pump
| Brand | KNF |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Pump Type | Oil-Free Diaphragm Vacuum Pump |
| Model | N950.50 KNDC B |
| Ultimate Vacuum | 2 mbar (abs.) |
| Pumping Speed | 55 L/min |
| Motor | DC Brushless |
| Power Consumption | 120 W |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 239 × 163 × 287 mm |
| Weight | 6.5 kg |
| Compliance | CE, RoHS, UL Recognized (File E114844) |
Overview
The KNF N950.50 KNDC B is a high-reliability, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for integration into analytical instrumentation and laboratory vacuum systems requiring stable, contamination-free operation. Designed with a brushless DC motor, this pump delivers consistent performance across variable input voltages (typically 24 V DC), making it suitable for OEM applications where power supply flexibility and electromagnetic compatibility are critical. Its operating principle relies on precision-machined PTFE-coated diaphragms and chemically resistant valve assemblies to achieve dry, hydrocarbon-free vacuum generation—eliminating the risk of oil backstreaming or sample contamination. With an ultimate vacuum of 2 mbar (absolute) and a nominal pumping speed of 55 L/min at atmospheric pressure, the N950.50 KNDC B is optimized as a fore-vacuum pump for turbomolecular pumps, vacuum drying chambers, mass spectrometers, optical emission spectrometers, and residual gas analyzers. Its compact footprint and low thermal signature support dense instrument packaging in regulated environments such as ISO 17025-accredited laboratories and GLP-compliant QC facilities.
Key Features
- Oil-free operation ensures zero hydrocarbon contamination—critical for trace-level analysis and UHV-compatible system integration.
- Brushless DC motor provides extended service life (>20,000 h MTBF), precise speed control, and reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI) compared to AC induction motors.
- Integrated thermal protection and current monitoring circuitry enable safe operation under continuous duty cycles and partial-load conditions.
- Robust housing constructed from reinforced polypropylene and aluminum alloy offers chemical resistance and mechanical stability in demanding lab environments.
- Low-noise design (<52 dB(A) at 1 m) minimizes acoustic impact in shared analytical workspaces and noise-sensitive applications such as cleanroom-adjacent instrumentation suites.
- Modular mounting interface and standardized electrical connectors simplify integration into OEM platforms and automated vacuum manifolds.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The N950.50 KNDC B is compatible with non-corrosive, non-condensable gases and vapors typical in analytical workflows—including nitrogen, argon, helium, air, and low-concentration solvent vapors (e.g., methanol, acetone below dew point). It is not rated for use with aggressive halogenated compounds, strong oxidizers (e.g., Cl₂, O₃), or high-humidity streams without optional moisture traps. The pump complies with EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC), 2014/35/EU (LVD), RoHS 2011/65/EU, and carries UL Recognition under File E114844 for component-level safety. While not intrinsically safe, its design meets IEC 61000-6-3 (emission) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards, supporting deployment in FDA-regulated facilities where audit-ready documentation and traceable conformity assessment are required.
Software & Data Management
As a standalone hardware module, the N950.50 KNDC B does not include embedded firmware or digital communication interfaces (e.g., RS-485, Modbus, or USB). However, KNF provides analog voltage (0–10 V) and digital TTL-compatible status outputs (e.g., fault signal, run indicator) for seamless integration into host system SCADA, PLC, or custom LabVIEW-based vacuum control architectures. When deployed in GxP environments, users may configure external data loggers to record operational parameters—including runtime hours, motor current draw, and thermal sensor feedback—for inclusion in 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records. KNF’s technical documentation package includes full EC Declaration of Conformity, test reports, and material declarations (IMDS/ELV), facilitating IQ/OQ validation protocols.
Applications
- Fore-vacuum stage for turbomolecular pumps in surface science instruments (XPS, AES) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS).
- Vacuum source for benchtop FTIR spectrometers, UV-Vis-NIR systems, and plasma etch monitors requiring stable base pressure below 5 mbar.
- Process vacuum in freeze-dryers and vacuum ovens used for pharmaceutical lyophilization and polymer degassing.
- Gas sampling and purge systems in environmental monitoring stations and semiconductor fab tool maintenance modules.
- Integrated vacuum generation in portable GC-MS field units and handheld Raman analyzers where weight, power efficiency, and reliability are prioritized.
FAQ
Is the N950.50 KNDC B certified for use in Class 1 Div 2 hazardous locations?
No—it lacks explosion-proof certification and is intended for general laboratory and industrial environments only.
Can this pump handle water vapor or condensable vapors?
It is not designed for high-humidity or condensable streams; use with a cold trap or desiccant filter is strongly recommended for such applications.
What is the expected lifetime under continuous operation?
Rated for >20,000 hours MTBF when operated within specified ambient temperature (5–40 °C) and pressure ranges, with no scheduled maintenance required.
Does KNF provide application-specific validation support for FDA submissions?
Yes—KNF offers technical dossiers, material traceability records, and engineering support for IQ/OQ protocol development upon request.
Is there a version with analog speed control or digital communication?
The standard N950.50 KNDC B supports fixed-speed operation; however, KNF offers customized variants with 0–10 V speed modulation and CAN bus interface for qualified OEM programs.
