KNF LABOPORT N820G Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The KNF LABOPORT N820G is a compact, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for precision, reliability, and chemical resilience in modern laboratory environments. Based on KNF’s proven positive-displacement diaphragm technology, it generates vacuum through reciprocating motion of a PTFE-coated elastomeric diaphragm—eliminating lubricants and preventing contamination of sensitive samples or downstream instrumentation. Designed for continuous duty in analytical, preparative, and quality control workflows, the N820G delivers a maximum flow rate of 20 L/min and achieves an ultimate vacuum of 6.0 mbar (absolute), making it suitable for applications ranging from rotary evaporation and filtration to vacuum drying and degassing. Its robust architecture integrates corrosion-resistant materials—including a polyphenylsulfone (PPS) pump head, FFKM (perfluoroelastomer) valves, and PTFE-coated diaphragms—to ensure long-term stability when handling aggressive solvents, acidic vapors, or halogenated compounds.

Key Features

• Oil-free operation ensures zero hydrocarbon contamination—critical for GC-MS sample preparation, lyophilization, and pharmaceutical process validation.
• Manual speed control via integrated rotary knob enables real-time adjustment of suction flow (0–100% range), optimizing solvent removal kinetics and minimizing bumping during rotary evaporation.
• ATEX-certified design (II 2G IIB T4 X) permits safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres containing flammable vapors (e.g., acetone, ether, ethanol).
• Three-color status LED (green/yellow/red) provides immediate visual feedback on operational mode, thermal load, and fault conditions—supporting GLP-compliant lab documentation practices.
• Foldable ergonomic handle and footprint of only 163 × 220 mm facilitate integration into fume hoods, glove boxes, or mobile lab carts without compromising accessibility.
• Smooth, crevice-free housing surface and tool-free access to diaphragm assembly simplify cleaning and decontamination per ISO 14644 cleanroom protocols or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 audit requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N820G is compatible with non-condensable gases and low-to-moderate vapor loads typical of common organic solvents (e.g., methanol, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate). Its integrated gas ballast (air bleed) valve mitigates condensation-induced diaphragm fatigue during high-boiling-point solvent removal (e.g., DMSO, glycerol), extending service life beyond 10,000 operating hours under standard lab conditions. All wetted materials comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility standards and EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 for food-contact safety. The pump meets IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and its mechanical design conforms to EN 61000-3-2 (harmonic current limits). Documentation includes full Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for CE marking and traceable material certifications.

Software & Data Management

While the N820G operates as a standalone analog-controlled unit, it is fully interoperable with KNF’s digital VC 900 vacuum controller—enabling programmable ramp profiles, pressure setpoint regulation, and real-time logging via USB or RS-485 interface. When paired with KNF’s LabView-compatible drivers or Modbus RTU protocol, the system supports automated data capture into LIMS or ELN platforms. Audit trails include timestamped speed changes, runtime accumulation, and thermal event logs—fully compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record requirements when deployed with validated software configurations.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation of heat-sensitive compounds in synthetic chemistry and natural product isolation.
• Vacuum filtration of corrosive precipitates (e.g., metal oxides, sulfides) in environmental testing labs.
• Lyophilization pre-chamber evacuation in biopharmaceutical development.
• Gas sampling and solid-phase extraction (SPE) manifold support in clinical toxicology.
• Inert atmosphere purging prior to Schlenk-line reactions or glovebox transfer operations.
• Integration into custom vacuum manifolds for parallel reaction monitoring (e.g., HPLC fraction collection, multi-well plate drying).

FAQ

Can the N820G be used with aggressive solvents like chloroform or concentrated HCl vapors?
Yes—the PTFE-coated diaphragm, FFKM valves, and PPS pump head provide exceptional resistance to halogenated solvents and mineral acids; however, prolonged exposure to >10% HCl vapor concentration requires optional acid-resistant filter protection.
Is remote control possible without the VC 900?
The N820G features a 0–10 V analog input for external PID controllers or PLC-based vacuum regulation systems, enabling integration into existing facility automation infrastructures.
What maintenance intervals are recommended under GLP conditions?
KNF specifies diaphragm replacement every 6,000–8,000 hours depending on duty cycle and chemical exposure; no routine oil changes or bearing lubrication are required due to the oil-free, brushless DC motor design.
Does the pump meet ISO 8573-1 Class 0 air purity requirements?
As a vacuum generator—not a compressed air source—ISO 8573-1 does not apply; however, its oil-free operation guarantees Class 0 contamination risk for vacuum-side processes per ISO 8573-7.
Can cold traps or protective bottles be retrofitted post-purchase?
Yes—all KNF LABOPORT accessories mount via standardized G1/4″ BSP ports and require no tools or calibration recalibration; installation preserves full factory warranty coverage.