KNF N035 STP Chemically Resistant and Rigid PTFE Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The KNF N035 STP is an oil-free, chemically resistant diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for continuous, reliable operation in demanding laboratory environments where exposure to aggressive vapors—such as halogenated solvents, strong acids, alkalis, and organic condensates—is routine. Utilizing a robust stainless steel (SS) pump head combined with rigid, molded PTFE components and Kalrez® elastomer valves and seals, this pump delivers exceptional chemical inertness without compromising mechanical stability or long-term dimensional integrity. Its operating principle relies on precision-machined, multi-layered PTFE-reinforced diaphragms actuated by an eccentric cam mechanism, enabling dry, pulsation-dampened suction with zero risk of oil contamination or hydrolytic degradation. Designed for integration into vacuum filtration, rotary evaporation, solvent recovery, and vacuum drying systems, the N035 STP meets the stringent requirements of ISO 8573-1 Class 0 (oil-free air), making it suitable for GLP/GMP-compliant workflows where sample purity and instrument traceability are non-negotiable.

Key Features

• Chemically inert wetted path: Entire fluid-contacting surfaces—including pump head, diaphragm, valves, and seals—are constructed from 316 stainless steel and rigid, sintered PTFE, ensuring resistance to HCl, HF, HNO₃, acetone, chloroform, THF, and other aggressive media.
• Zero-oil architecture: Eliminates lubricant carryover, preventing cross-contamination in sensitive applications such as mass spectrometry sample preparation or pharmaceutical API isolation.
• Modular configuration: Supports both parallel (flow doubling) and series (enhanced ultimate vacuum) dual-head arrangements via standardized KNF interconnect kits—no custom fabrication required.
• Low-maintenance design: Requires only periodic inspection of diaphragm integrity and valve seating; no oil changes, filter replacements, or bearing lubrication over typical service intervals (>10,000 hours MTBF).
• Acoustically optimized housing: Integrated vibration-damping mounts and acoustic enclosure reduce operational noise to ≤48 dB(A) at 1 m—ideal for benchtop use in shared analytical labs.
• Wide voltage compatibility: Factory-configurable for 115 VAC/60 Hz or 230 VAC/50 Hz input with built-in thermal overload protection and EMI filtering per EN 61326-1.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N035 STP is validated for use with corrosive and condensable process streams encountered in ASTM D86, USP , and ISO 17025-accredited laboratories. Wetted materials comply with FDA 21 CFR §177.1550 (PTFE) and §177.2600 (Kalrez®), supporting applications involving regulated pharmaceutical intermediates and environmental extract analysis. The pump’s construction conforms to ATEX Category 3G (Zone 2) for non-explosive atmospheres and carries CE marking under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. Full traceability documentation—including material certifications (EN 10204 3.1), RoHS Declaration of Conformity, and EC Type Examination Certificate—is supplied with each unit.

Software & Data Management

While the N035 STP operates as a standalone analog device, it is fully compatible with third-party lab automation platforms via 0–10 VDC analog control input (optional) and digital status outputs (vacuum achieved, fault alarm). When integrated with Cole-Parmer’s LabSense™ ecosystem or KNF’s optional PicoControl™ interface module, users gain access to real-time pressure logging, runtime diagnostics, predictive maintenance alerts, and audit-trail-enabled event history compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. All firmware updates and configuration files are digitally signed and version-controlled through KNF’s secure customer portal.

Applications

• Vacuum filtration of acidic digestates in ICP-MS sample prep
• Rotary evaporation of TFA-containing peptide synthesis mixtures
• In-line vacuum drying of lithium battery cathode slurries
• Gas sampling and pre-concentration for GC-MS analysis of volatile organics
• Evacuation of gloveboxes handling pyrophoric reagents (e.g., tert-butyllithium)
• Pressure/vacuum cycling in accelerated stability chambers per ICH Q1A(R2)

FAQ

Can the N035 STP handle saturated solvent vapors without condensation damage?
Yes—the rigid PTFE pump head and Kalrez® valves resist swelling and cold-flow even under prolonged exposure to saturated acetone, methanol, or ethyl acetate vapors. Internal heat dissipation design minimizes localized condensation within the compression chamber.
Is this pump suitable for vacuum ovens operating at 50 °C?
Yes—ambient temperature rating extends to 40 °C; when installed externally with insulated tubing, it maintains performance up to oven setpoints of 60 °C without derating.
Does KNF provide validation support for IQ/OQ protocols?
Yes—Cole-Parmer supplies vendor-specific IQ/OQ templates aligned with ASTM E2500 and ISPE GAMP5, including test scripts for flow rate verification (ASTM D2457), ultimate vacuum confirmation (ISO 21809-2 Annex B), and electrical safety checks.
What is the expected service life under continuous 24/7 operation?
With proper inlet filtration and ambient conditions ≤35 °C, mean time between failures exceeds 12,000 hours; diaphragm replacement intervals are typically 18–24 months depending on vapor load profile.
Can I retrofit a single-head N035 STP to a dual-head configuration later?
Yes—all N035-series frames accept field-upgrade kits (N035.3 STP mounting plate + second motor module) without requiring pump replacement or system downtime.