ChemTron CSH.4 / CSH.6 Corrosion-Resistant Solvent Recovery Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The ChemTron CSH.4 and CSH.6 are oil-free, corrosion-resistant diaphragm vacuum pumps engineered for safe, efficient solvent recovery in analytical, synthetic, and quality control laboratories. Unlike traditional rotary vane or water aspirator systems, these pumps operate on a dry, positive-displacement principle—utilizing PTFE-coated diaphragms, stainless steel valve assemblies, and chemically inert wetted materials (including FKM and EPDM elastomers) to withstand aggressive organic solvents, acids, and halogenated compounds. The integrated design incorporates an inline separation chamber upstream of the pump head to trap particulates and high-boiling residues, while a downstream condenser enables real-time condensation and collection of volatile solvents such as acetone, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and methanol. This architecture minimizes pump contamination, extends service life, and supports closed-loop solvent reuse—reducing operational costs and environmental impact in compliance with ISO 14001 laboratory sustainability guidelines.

Key Features

• Chemically resistant wetted path: PTFE-coated diaphragm, FKM check valves, and EPDM seals ensure compatibility with corrosive vapors and condensates.
• Dual-stage configuration with built-in particle separator: Captures solids, aerosols, and viscous residues before they reach the pumping mechanism.
• Integrated condenser interface: Standardized 10 mm OD ports enable direct connection to Liebig, coil, or cold-finger condensers for >90% low-boiling solvent recovery (bp < 100°C at 1 atm).
• No oil lubrication required: Eliminates risk of oil backstreaming, cross-contamination, and scheduled oil changes—critical for GC, HPLC, and lyophilization applications.
• Low-vibration, brushless DC motor: Delivers stable 34 L/min free-air flow with thermal overload protection and IP54-rated enclosure for benchtop or fume hood installation.
• CE-marked and RoHS-compliant: Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management system; documentation supports GLP audit readiness.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CSH series is validated for continuous operation with common laboratory solvents including chlorinated hydrocarbons (e.g., CH₂Cl₂, CHCl₃), polar aprotic solvents (e.g., DMF, THF), and carboxylic acid derivatives (e.g., acetic anhydride). It is not recommended for use with strong oxidizers (e.g., nitric acid fumes), unsaturated monomers prone to polymerization under vacuum, or solvents with boiling points exceeding 180°C without additional trapping. All models meet EN 61000-6-3 (EMC emission) and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards. Documentation includes EU Declaration of Conformity and material compatibility charts per ASTM D471 and ISO 1817 testing protocols.

Software & Data Management

While the CSH.4 and CSH.6 operate as standalone analog devices, optional digital controllers (e.g., ChemTron VAC-LOG series) can be retrofitted to provide real-time vacuum monitoring, flow regulation via PWM-controlled motor speed, and timestamped event logging. Data export is supported via RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface in CSV format, enabling integration into LIMS environments and supporting 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records when paired with validated software platforms. Audit trails include pump runtime, peak vacuum events, and thermal fault history.

Applications

• Solvent recovery during rotary evaporation and fractional distillation
• Vacuum filtration of corrosive or crystalline slurries
• Evaporative concentration of acidic digestates (e.g., EPA Method 3050B extracts)
• Support vacuum for Schlenk lines handling air-sensitive reagents
• Primary vacuum source for benchtop mass spectrometry sample introduction systems
• Controlled drying of pH-sensitive biomaterials where oil-free conditions are mandatory

FAQ

What solvents are compatible with the CSH series?
Acetone, ethanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, diethyl ether, toluene, and acetonitrile are fully compatible. Avoid prolonged exposure to concentrated nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide vapor, or formaldehyde solutions.
Can the CSH pump be used for high-vacuum applications?
No. With ultimate vacuum limited to 2–4 mbar (CSH.6), it is designed for rough vacuum duties only—not for applications requiring <0.1 mbar, such as high-vacuum distillation or electron microscopy.
Is routine maintenance required?
Yes. Diaphragm replacement is recommended every 6,000–8,000 operating hours; valve kits should be inspected annually. No oil changes or bearing lubrication are necessary.
Does the pump include a condenser?
No. The CSH series features standardized 10 mm OD ports for external condenser attachment; condensers must be selected and installed separately based on solvent load and cooling capacity.
How does the particle separator function?
The inline separation cup uses gravity sedimentation and directional flow reversal to decouple suspended solids and condensed high-boiling fractions from the vapor stream prior to pump intake—reducing wear and preventing clogging of the diaphragm chamber.