ILMVAC MP 901 Z Two-Stage Chemical-Resistant Diaphragm Vacuum Pump (<8 mbar Ultimate Pressure)

Overview

The ILMVAC MP 901 Z is a two-stage, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for reliable, contamination-free operation in demanding laboratory environments. Utilizing a dual-diaphragm architecture with PTFE-coated pumping chambers and chemically resistant elastomeric valves, it achieves an ultimate vacuum of <8 mbar while maintaining dry, hydrocarbon-free evacuation—critical for applications where sample integrity, solvent compatibility, or regulatory compliance must be preserved. Unlike rotary vane or piston pumps, the MP 901 Z operates without lubricating oil, eliminating risk of backstreaming, vapor contamination, or oil degradation during exposure to solvents or reactive vapors. Its robust aluminum housing, integrated thermal protection, and low-vibration motor ensure stable long-term performance under continuous duty cycles typical in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical process development, and materials synthesis workflows.

Key Features

• Two-stage diaphragm design delivering enhanced ultimate vacuum (<8 mbar) and improved pumping speed across medium vacuum range (100–10 mbar)
• PTFE-coated diaphragms and fluorocarbon (FKM) valve assemblies providing broad chemical resistance to common organic solvents, mild acids, and bases
• Oil-free, dry operation ensuring zero hydrocarbon contamination—essential for GC-MS sample preparation, lyophilization, and high-purity material handling
• Compact footprint (320 × 185 × 270 mm) and lightweight construction (18.3 kg) enabling benchtop integration without structural reinforcement
• Integrated pressure relief valve and thermal cut-off switch for automatic shutdown under overload or overheating conditions
• Low-noise operation (<52 dB(A)) suitable for shared laboratory spaces and ISO Class 5–7 cleanroom-adjacent environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MP 901 Z is validated for use with non-aggressive, non-condensable, and moderately volatile gases and vapors—including acetone, ethanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and aqueous solutions encountered in standard lab protocols. It is not rated for halogenated solvents (e.g., chloroform), strong oxidizers (e.g., nitric acid fumes), or highly condensable vapors (e.g., glycerol, PEG) without optional cold trap integration. The pump conforms to EN 61000-6-3 (EMC emission limits) and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity), and its electrical design complies with IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic current limits. While not intrinsically safe, it may be deployed in Zone 2 classified areas when installed per IEC 60079-14 guidelines and paired with appropriate exhaust filtration.

Software & Data Management

The MP 901 Z operates as a standalone analog device with no embedded digital interface or firmware. For process documentation and audit readiness, it is compatible with third-party vacuum monitoring systems (e.g., MKS Baratron capacitance manometers or Leybold VisiPump controllers) via 0–10 V analog output (optional accessory). When integrated into GLP- or GMP-regulated workflows, users commonly pair the pump with validated data loggers that record runtime, ambient temperature, and downstream pressure trends—supporting 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records when configured with user authentication, audit trail, and electronic signature modules.

Applications

• Vacuum distillation of heat-sensitive compounds under reduced pressure
• Evacuation of jacketed glass reactors and stirred-tank bioreactors during inert gas purging or headspace analysis
• Filtration support for Büchner funnels and HPLC sample preparation cartridges
• Concentration of dilute aqueous or organic extracts using rotary evaporators (RotaVaps) operating down to 10–50 mbar
• Drying of hygroscopic solids, catalysts, and crystalline APIs in vacuum ovens with controlled ramp profiles
• Pre-evacuation of mass spectrometry ion sources and residual gas analyzers prior to high-vacuum pumping stages

FAQ

Is the MP 901 Z suitable for pumping corrosive gases such as HCl or Cl₂?
No. While chemically resistant to many organic solvents and weak acids, it is not designed for continuous exposure to aggressive inorganic gases or halogens. Use only with non-corrosive, non-oxidizing media.
Can this pump be used with a cold trap for solvent recovery?
Yes—when mounted upstream of a condensable vapor source, the MP 901 Z performs effectively with standard laboratory cold traps (e.g., dry ice/acetone or chilled glycol loops) to prevent diaphragm saturation and extend service life.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Diaphragm and valve kits should be inspected every 3,000 operating hours or annually—whichever occurs first. Routine checks include verifying seal integrity, checking for diaphragm fatigue cracks, and cleaning inlet filters.
Does the pump include a built-in vacuum gauge?
No. A separate vacuum measurement device (e.g., Pirani or capacitance manometer) must be installed downstream for accurate pressure monitoring.
Is CE marking applicable to this unit?
Yes—the MP 901 Z carries full CE marking under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, with supporting Declaration of Conformity available upon request.