KNF N022AN(T).18 Dual-Mode Diaphragm Pump – Vacuum & Pressure

Overview

The KNF N022AN(T).18 is a compact, oil-free dual-mode diaphragm pump engineered for precise and reliable operation in demanding laboratory environments. Unlike conventional rotary vane or piston pumps, this unit employs a reciprocating PTFE-coated or elastomer-reinforced diaphragm mechanism—eliminating lubricants, minimizing particulate generation, and ensuring contamination-free gas handling. Its dual functionality enables seamless switching between vacuum generation (down to 100 mbar absolute) and positive pressure delivery (up to 4 bar gauge), making it suitable for applications ranging from solvent-resistant filtration and inert atmosphere purging to controlled pressurization of reaction vessels and sample transfer systems. The pump’s robust aluminum housing, corrosion-resistant wetted materials, and low-vibration motor design support stable integration into analytical workflows, glove boxes, and automated platforms where electromagnetic compatibility, acoustic noise (<50 dB(A)), and long-term operational integrity are critical.

Key Features

• Oil-free operation ensures zero hydrocarbon contamination—essential for GC carrier gas supply, mass spectrometry sample introduction, and pharmaceutical process validation.
• Dual-mode architecture allows independent selection of vacuum or pressure mode without hardware modification; no external valves or manifold reconfiguration required.
• Chemically resistant wetted path: Standard N022AN.18 uses chloroprene (CR) diaphragms and stainless steel (SUS) valves; optional N022AT.18 features PTFE-coated diaphragms and valves for enhanced compatibility with organic solvents, halogenated compounds, weak acids (e.g., dilute HCl, acetic acid), and alkaline vapors (e.g., NH₃, NaOH aerosols).
• Thermally stable design with integrated thermal protection and overload shutdown—certified to IEC 60034-1 and compliant with EN 60335-1 for Class II electrical safety.
• Low-maintenance architecture: No oil changes, no carbon brushes, and no scheduled seal replacements under normal operating conditions; typical service life exceeds 20,000 hours.
• Flexible mounting options (horizontal/vertical), compact footprint (220 × 120 × 180 mm), and standard 6 mm push-fit or BSP threaded ports simplify system integration.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N022AN(T).18 is validated for continuous duty with non-explosive, non-condensable, and non-particulate-laden gases and vapors. It meets material compatibility requirements outlined in ASTM D471 (elastomer resistance to liquids) and ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 0 for oil-free air quality. While not intrinsically safe, the pump may be deployed in Zone 2/22 hazardous areas when installed with appropriate barrier systems and documented risk assessments per ATEX 2014/34/EU. All units are CE-marked, RoHS-compliant, and manufactured under ISO 9001-certified quality management systems. For GLP/GMP-regulated laboratories, the pump supports audit-ready documentation packages including Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) reports and material traceability records for wetted components.

Software & Data Management

This analog-controlled pump does not include embedded digital interfaces or firmware. However, its 0–10 V analog input (optional on select configurations) enables integration into centralized lab automation systems via PLCs or SCADA platforms for remote start/stop, pressure/vacuum setpoint modulation, and real-time status monitoring (e.g., fault signals, thermal cutoff events). KNF provides comprehensive technical documentation—including dimensional drawings, pressure-flow curves, noise spectra, and material SDS—in English and German. Firmware-upgradable controllers (e.g., KNF’s SMART series) are available as system-level upgrades for users requiring USB/RS-485 connectivity, data logging, or FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic records.

Applications

• Vacuum-assisted filtration of aqueous and organic-phase samples using PTFE or nylon membranes.
• Pressure-driven liquid transfer in HPLC solvent degassing manifolds and autosampler purge cycles.
• Inert gas blanketing and headspace pressurization in Schlenk lines and sealed reactor systems.
• Gas sampling and calibration gas delivery for environmental monitoring instruments (e.g., PID, FID, electrochemical sensors).
• Evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD) and preparative chromatography auxiliary vacuum stages.
• Replacement for water aspirators in teaching labs—eliminating wastewater discharge, freeze risks, and variable suction performance.

FAQ

Is the N022AN(T).18 suitable for pumping corrosive gases such as chlorine or hydrogen sulfide?

No. While PTFE-coated variants resist weak acids and common organics, they are not rated for strong oxidizers (Cl₂, NO₂), reducing agents (H₂S), or highly reactive species (O₃, F₂). Consult KNF’s chemical compatibility database or request a custom material assessment.
Can this pump achieve high vacuum levels below 10 mbar?

No. As a single-stage diaphragm pump, its ultimate vacuum is limited to ~100 mbar (abs); for sub-10 mbar operation, a secondary vacuum stage (e.g., turbomolecular or diffusion pump) is required.
What is the expected lifetime under continuous 24/7 operation?

Under clean, dry, room-temperature conditions and within specified pressure/vacuum limits, mean time between failures (MTBF) exceeds 20,000 hours. Actual service life depends on gas composition, duty cycle, and ambient temperature.
Does KNF provide validation documentation for GMP environments?

Yes—upon request, KNF supplies IQ/OQ protocol templates, material certifications (EN 10204 3.1), and test reports aligned with ISO 13485 and EU Annex 11 expectations for ancillary equipment qualification.
Is the pump compatible with vacuum ovens or freeze dryers?

It can serve as a primary roughing pump for small-scale benchtop units with chamber volumes ≤5 L and outgassing rates <0.1 mbar·L/s. For larger systems or aggressive solvent loads, consult KNF’s application engineering team for sizing verification.