KNF N035AN.18 Vacuum & Pressure Diaphragm Pump

Overview

The KNF N035AN.18 is a compact, oil-free diaphragm pump engineered for dual-mode laboratory operation—delivering both vacuum generation and positive pressure in a single, robust unit. Based on KNF’s proprietary linear motor-driven diaphragm architecture, it operates without lubricants or sliding seals, eliminating risk of oil contamination and ensuring clean, dry gas transfer. Its core principle relies on reciprocating PTFE-reinforced elastomeric diaphragms actuated by precision-machined eccentric mechanisms, enabling high volumetric efficiency across wide pressure differentials—from atmospheric intake down to 100 mbar(abs) vacuum and up to 4 bar(g) overpressure. Designed for continuous duty in analytical, chemical synthesis, and quality control environments, the N035AN.18 meets stringent requirements for inertness, low vibration, and long-term reliability under variable load conditions.

Key Features

• Oil-free, maintenance-free operation with no lubrication required—eliminates cross-contamination risk in solvent, acid, or base vapor handling
• Chemically resistant wetted materials: aluminum housing, stainless steel valves, and nitrile rubber (CR) or PTFE-coated diaphragms compatible with common organic solvents (e.g., acetone, ethanol, THF), dilute acids (≤10% HCl, HNO₃), and alkaline solutions (≤5% NaOH)
• Low acoustic emission (<52 dB(A)) and minimal mechanical vibration—suitable for placement on sensitive instrumentation benches or inside fume hoods
• Dual-function capability: selectable vacuum mode (up to 30 L/min at 100 mbar) and pressure mode (up to 27 L/min at 4 bar(g)) via simple hose reconfiguration
• IP20 standard enclosure; optional IP44-rated version available for humid or splash-prone lab zones
• Integrated thermal protection and current-limiting circuitry for overload safety and extended service life (>20,000 hours MTBF under typical lab duty cycles)
• Compact footprint (220 × 120 × 210 mm) optimized for benchtop integration and modular system design

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N035AN.18 is validated for use with non-explosive, non-corrosive-to-wetted-parts gases and vapors. Its CR/SUS material configuration supports routine handling of aqueous and polar organic media encountered in filtration, rotary evaporation, vacuum drying, and reactor pressurization workflows. While not rated for ATEX or IECEx hazardous area use, it complies fully with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, and RoHS 2011/65/EU. All units are manufactured under ISO 9001-certified processes and undergo 100% functional testing—including leak rate verification (<1×10⁻³ mbar·L/s He) and pressure hold stability assessment—prior to shipment. Documentation includes Declaration of Conformity, EC Type Examination Certificate (where applicable), and full material traceability reports.

Software & Data Management

The N035AN.18 operates as a standalone analog device with no embedded firmware or digital interface. It is designed for direct integration into larger automated systems via external PLCs or process controllers using standard 0–10 V or 4–20 mA analog signals (optional accessories available). For laboratories requiring audit-ready operation, KNF recommends pairing the pump with third-party data loggers compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (e.g., certified LabVIEW-based acquisition systems or Siemens Desigo CC platforms) to record runtime, pressure/vacuum setpoints, and fault events. The pump itself maintains no internal memory or user-accessible logs—ensuring deterministic behavior and simplifying GLP/GMP validation protocols where “black box” components must be minimized.

Applications

• Vacuum-assisted filtration (Büchner, Hirsch, membrane) across pharmaceutical QC and environmental sample prep
• Positive-pressure inert gas blanketing of reaction vessels during air-sensitive synthesis (e.g., Grignard, organolithium chemistry)
• Driving gas chromatography carrier gas supply lines where oil-free purity is mandatory
• Actuating pneumatic valves and actuators in custom-built analytical manifolds
• Replacing water aspirators in teaching labs—reducing water consumption and eliminating wastewater disposal concerns
• Supporting vacuum ovens, freeze dryers, and desiccators requiring stable sub-200 mbar operation

FAQ

Can the N035AN.18 handle chlorinated solvents such as chloroform or DCM?

No—chlorinated hydrocarbons degrade nitrile rubber (CR) diaphragms. For such applications, specify the N035AT.18 variant with PTFE-coated diaphragms and confirm compatibility with KNF’s chemical resistance database prior to deployment.
Is this pump suitable for continuous 24/7 operation?

Yes—rated for continuous duty at ambient temperatures ≤40°C and relative humidity ≤80% non-condensing. Derating is recommended above 35°C ambient or when operating near maximum pressure/vacuum limits for extended periods.
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 ASTM F2339 and ISO 8573-1:2010 (Class 0 compressed air purity) for critical pharmaceutical applications.
Can I mount the pump vertically?

Yes—the N035AN.18 is orientation-insensitive due to its balanced diaphragm mechanism and absence of oil reservoirs; however, inlet/outlet ports must remain unobstructed and condensate traps installed if vapor-laden streams are processed.
What is the expected lifetime of the diaphragm assembly?

Under typical laboratory vacuum filtration duty (intermittent 10–30 min/cycle, 5–10 cycles/day), CR diaphragms last ≥18 months; PTFE-coated variants extend service life to ≥36 months. Replacement kits include full valve plate, diaphragm, and gasket sets with calibrated torque specifications.