KNF LABOPORT® N 96 Compact Chemically Resistant Diaphragm Vacuum Pump
| Brand | KNF |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | N 96 |
| Pump Type | Oil-Free Diaphragm Pump |
| Flow Rate | 7 L/min |
| Ultimate Vacuum | <130 mbar (abs.) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 156 × 119 × 75 mm |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Motor Power | 19 W |
| Diaphragm Material | PTFE-Coated |
| Valve Material | FKM |
| Pump Head Material | PPS |
| Operating Temperature Range (Medium & Ambient) | 5–40 °C |
| Max. Working Pressure | 2.5 bar (rel.) |
Overview
The KNF LABOPORT® N 96 is a compact, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for precision and reliability in demanding laboratory environments. Utilizing positive displacement via an elastomeric diaphragm actuated by an eccentric cam mechanism, the N 96 generates vacuum through controlled volume expansion within a sealed chamber—eliminating the need for lubricating oils and preventing sample contamination. Its core architecture is optimized for chemical resistance and long-term stability under intermittent or continuous operation. Designed specifically for benchtop integration, the N 96 delivers consistent suction performance with minimal thermal load and acoustic emission (<45 dB(A)), making it suitable for shared lab spaces, fume hoods, and automated workstations where footprint, cleanliness, and operational safety are critical constraints.
Key Features
- Chemically resistant wetted materials: PPS (polyphenylsulfone) pump head, PTFE-coated diaphragm, and FKM (fluoroelastomer) valves ensure compatibility with aggressive solvents, acids, and bases commonly used in extraction, filtration, and solvent recovery workflows.
- Manually adjustable speed control enables precise regulation of volumetric flow rate (0–7 L/min), allowing users to match vacuum demand to process requirements—e.g., gentle aspiration of sensitive biological samples or rapid degassing of viscous solutions.
- Compact form factor (156 × 119 × 75 mm) and low mass (1.3 kg) facilitate flexible placement on crowded benches, inside enclosures, or mounted vertically/horizontally without structural reinforcement.
- Oil-free operation guarantees zero hydrocarbon carryover, eliminating risk of sample adulteration—essential for analytical applications such as HPLC sample preparation, GC vial evacuation, and mass spectrometry inlet conditioning.
- Brushless DC motor (19 W nominal power) provides high energy efficiency, extended service life, and reduced electromagnetic interference—critical when operating near sensitive instrumentation including balances, pH meters, or optical detectors.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The N 96 is rated for non-explosive, non-particulate, and non-condensable gas/vapor streams within ambient and media temperature ranges of 5–40 °C. It complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 for hazardous substance restrictions. While not intrinsically safe for ATEX Zone 1/2 environments, its design supports GLP-compliant documentation when integrated into validated laboratory processes. The absence of oil and use of USP Class VI–qualified elastomers (FKM) and thermoplastics (PPS) align with general pharmaceutical and biotech handling guidelines for non-sterile auxiliary equipment.
Software & Data Management
The N 96 operates as a standalone analog device with manual speed adjustment via front-panel rotary control—no firmware, digital interface, or data logging capability is included. This intentional design prioritizes mechanical robustness, electromagnetic compatibility, and ease of qualification in regulated settings where software validation overhead must be minimized. For laboratories requiring audit trails or remote monitoring, KNF offers compatible accessories—including analog-to-digital signal converters and relay-based interlock modules—that enable integration with LabVantage, Empower, or custom SCADA systems while preserving 21 CFR Part 11 compliance at the system level.
Applications
- Vacuum filtration of aqueous and organic suspensions using Buchner or Hirsch funnels
- Liquid aspiration and transfer in cell culture, microbiology, and clinical sample processing
- Evacuation of desiccators and vacuum ovens during moisture-sensitive drying protocols
- Supporting solid-phase extraction (SPE) manifolds and vacuum manifold-based plate washing
- Pre-conditioning of gas chromatography inlets and purge-and-trap concentrators
- Low-vacuum degassing of resins, adhesives, and coating formulations prior to casting or curing
FAQ
Is the N 96 suitable for pumping condensable vapors such as water or ethanol?
No—continuous exposure to condensable vapors may cause internal accumulation and compromise diaphragm flexibility and valve sealing. Use only with dry or low-humidity gas streams; for solvent-laden exhaust, integrate a cold trap or scrubber upstream.
Can the pump be operated continuously for 24/7 applications?
Yes, provided ambient temperature remains within 5–40 °C and duty cycle does not exceed 80% under full-load conditions. Thermal protection circuitry automatically interrupts operation if internal temperature exceeds safe thresholds.
What maintenance is required over its service life?
None beyond periodic visual inspection of external fittings and cleaning of air intake filters. The PTFE-coated diaphragm and FKM valves are designed for >10,000 hours of operation under typical lab usage profiles.
Does KNF provide calibration certificates or factory test reports?
Standard units ship with a Declaration of Conformity and performance verification report (flow vs. vacuum curve). Optional ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration is available upon request for GxP-regulated deployments.
