ILMVAC ILM PK Series Two-Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump
| Origin | Germany |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | PK |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The ILMVAC PK Series is a precision-engineered two-stage rotary vane vacuum pump designed for demanding laboratory and light industrial vacuum applications. Operating on the proven principle of positive displacement via rotating vanes within an eccentrically mounted rotor, the PK Series achieves high pumping efficiency and stable ultimate vacuum performance down to <2 × 10⁻³ mbar (typical) — with optimized test conditions reaching 2 × 10⁻⁴ mbar. Its dual-stage architecture enables superior compression ratio and enhanced water vapor tolerance compared to single-stage alternatives, making it especially suitable as a forepump for diffusion, turbomolecular, or cryogenic high-vacuum systems. Built to DIN/ISO-compliant manufacturing standards in Germany, each unit undergoes rigorous factory testing for leak integrity, ultimate pressure stability, and volumetric flow consistency prior to shipment.
Key Features
- Compact, robust cast-aluminum housing with integrated oil reservoir and ergonomic handling design
- High-efficiency dual-stage rotary vane mechanism delivering rapid evacuation to stable base pressure
- Advanced oil-sealing system with anti-backflow check valve — prevents oil migration into vacuum chamber upon shutdown
- Low-oil-mist operation achieved through optimized internal baffle geometry and high-retention mist filter
- Integrated bar-type oil level sight window with calibrated scale for real-time visual monitoring under ambient lighting
- Enhanced chemical resistance via fluorocarbon-treated vanes and corrosion-inhibited internal surfaces
- Low-noise operation (<56 dB(A) at 1 m) enabled by balanced rotor dynamics and vibration-damped mounting
- Standard gas ballast valve for controlled admission of dry air during pump-down of condensable vapors (e.g., water, solvents)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The PK Series is compatible with a broad range of non-reactive and mildly aggressive process gases encountered in routine laboratory workflows, including water vapor, alcohols, acetone, ethyl acetate, and hydrocarbon solvents. It is not intended for use with highly corrosive gases (e.g., Cl₂, HF, NH₃), reactive metal alkyls, or oxygen-enriched atmospheres above 21% O₂ without explicit OEM validation. All models comply with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. Electrical configurations meet IEC 60034-1 and EN 60034-30-1 (IE2 efficiency class). The pump’s mechanical design supports GLP/GMP-aligned maintenance logging and is routinely deployed in ISO 17025-accredited laboratories where traceable vacuum performance documentation is required.
Software & Data Management
While the PK Series operates as a standalone analog vacuum source, optional digital integration kits are available for remote status monitoring and basic operational logging. These include a 4–20 mA analog output interface for connection to centralized lab SCADA or LIMS platforms, enabling real-time recording of motor current draw (proxy for load condition) and thermal sensor feedback. Firmware-upgradable controllers support configurable alarm thresholds for overtemperature and low-oil-level events. Audit trails generated via external PLC or data acquisition systems may be structured to satisfy FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated electronic signature protocols and access-controlled user roles.
Applications
- Vacuum distillation and fractional evaporation of heat-sensitive organic compounds
- Membrane and Buchner filtration under controlled sub-atmospheric pressure
- Freeze-drying (lyophilization) pre-evacuation and primary drying support
- Leak detection using helium mass spectrometry — serving as reliable backing pump
- Thin-film deposition systems (e.g., thermal evaporation, sputtering) requiring clean, stable forevacuum
- Integration with analytical instruments such as GC-MS, SEM, and surface analysis tools requiring stable low-to-medium vacuum stages
- Environmental simulation chambers and vacuum ovens used in materials aging studies
FAQ
What is the recommended oil change interval for continuous operation?
Under standard laboratory conditions (8 h/day, ambient temperature ≤30°C, non-condensing loads), oil replacement is advised every 3,000 operating hours or annually — whichever occurs first. Extended intervals require oil analysis per ASTM D6595.
Can the PK pump operate continuously at its ultimate pressure?
Yes; the PK Series is rated for continuous duty at ultimate pressure. However, prolonged operation under heavy condensable vapor loads without gas ballast activation may accelerate oil degradation and reduce service life.
Is the pump compatible with nitrogen purging for solvent recovery applications?
Nitrogen purging is permissible during shutdown sequences only. Continuous inert gas injection during operation is not supported and voids warranty unless explicitly approved by ILMVAC Engineering.
Does the PK Series meet UL or CSA safety certification for North American installations?
Standard models carry CE marking for EU compliance. For UL/cULus listing in Canada and the U.S., order units configured with UL-recognized components and certified motor windings — specify “UL-Ready” configuration at time of quotation.
How is vacuum level monitored without built-in gauges?
ILMVAC recommends pairing the PK pump with a calibrated Pirani or capacitance manometer (e.g., MKS Baratron® series) installed downstream. Analog or digital readouts can be interfaced via optional signal outputs or third-party vacuum controllers.
