ILMVAC P 4 E Single-Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump
| Origin | Germany |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | P 4 E |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The ILMVAC P 4 E is a single-stage rotary vane vacuum pump engineered for reliable, continuous operation in demanding laboratory and light industrial environments. Based on proven Couette-flow displacement principles, it achieves ultimate vacuum levels down to 1 × 10−1 mbar while delivering a nominal pumping speed of 4.6 m³/h (76 L/min) at 50 Hz. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the P 4 E integrates precision-machined rotor assemblies, hardened vanes, and optimized oil circulation pathways to ensure stable performance across variable load conditions—including intermittent water vapor exposure and mild chemical vapors. Its compact footprint (W × D × H ≈ 320 × 180 × 240 mm) and low mass (17.0 kg) support flexible benchtop integration or mobile vacuum station deployment without compromising structural rigidity or thermal stability.
Key Features
- German-engineered single-stage rotary vane architecture with high-reproducibility machining tolerances
- Ultimate vacuum: ≤ 1 × 10−1 mbar (absolute), verified per ISO 21360-1 calibration methodology
- Pumping speed: 4.6 m³/h (76 L/min) at 50 Hz, measured at inlet per ISO 1606
- Integrated sight-glass oil level indicator with calibrated scale for rapid visual verification
- Non-return valve design prevents backstreaming of pump oil upon shutdown—maintaining system integrity during idle periods
- Low-noise operation (< 52 dB(A) at 1 m), compliant with EU Directive 2000/14/EC noise emission limits
- Oil mist suppression system reduces airborne hydrocarbon particulates, supporting ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom-compatible lab environments
- Robust cast-aluminum housing with vibration-damped mounting feet for long-term mechanical stability
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The P 4 E is compatible with standard laboratory vacuum lines (KF-16 or ISO-KF 25 flanges, optional adapters available). It is suitable for use with aqueous, mildly polar, and non-aggressive organic solvents encountered in freeze-drying, rotary evaporation, and filtration workflows. While not rated for halogenated or strongly acidic vapors, its stainless-steel shaft seals and nitrile elastomer gaskets provide enhanced resistance compared to entry-level alternatives. The pump meets CE marking requirements under the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU. It supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with external pressure logging systems (e.g., capacitance manometers traceable to NIST standards).
Software & Data Management
As a standalone mechanical vacuum source, the P 4 E operates without embedded firmware or digital interfaces. However, it is fully interoperable with third-party vacuum control platforms—including those from Pfeiffer Vacuum, Edwards, and MKS Instruments—via analog 0–10 V or 4–20 mA pressure feedback signals (requires optional sensor integration). For audit-ready environments, users may log operational hours and maintenance intervals using external asset management software compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (electronic records and signatures) when paired with time-stamped service logs and calibrated pressure transducers.
Applications
- Primary vacuum source for lyophilizers and vacuum ovens in pharmaceutical and biotech labs
- Backing pump for turbomolecular and diffusion pumps in surface analysis (XPS, AES) and thin-film deposition systems
- Vacuum distillation and solvent recovery in synthetic chemistry workflows
- Membrane filtration and Büchner funnel setups requiring stable sub-100 mbar operation
- Leak detection systems utilizing helium mass spectrometry (as roughing stage)
- Integration into custom vacuum gloveboxes and inert-atmosphere synthesis stations
FAQ
What is the recommended oil type and change interval?
ILMVAC specifies ISO VG 100 mineral-based vacuum pump oil (e.g., ILMVAC VP 100 or equivalent). Oil should be replaced after initial 100 operating hours, then every 1,000 hours or semiannually—whichever occurs first—under normal laboratory duty cycles.
Can the P 4 E operate continuously at ultimate vacuum?
Yes; the pump is rated for continuous duty at ultimate pressure. Thermal management is ensured via passive finned housing and internal oil cooling loops—no forced-air fan required.
Is the P 4 E compatible with corrosive process gases?
It is not designed for chlorine, ammonia, or HF-containing streams. For such applications, consider chemically resistant variants with fluorocarbon seals and stainless-steel wetted parts.
Does it include an integrated vacuum gauge?
No. A separate vacuum measurement device (e.g., Pirani or capacitance manometer) must be installed upstream for accurate pressure monitoring.
What electrical supply does the P 4 E require?
Standard configuration: 220–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz, single-phase. Optional 115 V versions are available upon request with modified motor winding.

