KNF N84.4 ANDC B Brushless DC Diaphragm Vacuum Pump
| Brand | KNF |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Pump Type | Oil-Free Diaphragm Vacuum Pump |
| Model | N84.4 ANDC B |
| Ultimate Vacuum | 2 mbar |
| Pumping Speed | 4.8 L/min |
| Motor | Brushless DC (BLDC), 65 W |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 106 × 179 × 94 mm |
| Weight | 1.8 kg |
| Application Class | Forevacuum Pump for Turbomolecular Pumps, Degassing, Analytical Instrumentation |
Overview
The KNF N84.4 ANDC B is a compact, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for precision forevacuum generation in analytical and research-grade instrumentation. Designed as an OEM-integrated solution, it operates on brushless DC (BLDC) motor technology—delivering stable rotational speed control, extended service life, and low electromagnetic interference. Its core function relies on positive displacement via elastomeric diaphragms and precision-machined check valves, enabling consistent volumetric flow across the operational pressure range without lubricants or hydrocarbon contamination. With an ultimate vacuum of 2 mbar and a nominal pumping speed of 4.8 L/min at atmospheric pressure, the N84.4 ANDC B is optimized for applications requiring clean, repeatable vacuum levels—particularly as a backing pump for turbomolecular pumps in mass spectrometry, residual gas analysis, and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) pre-pumping stages. Its small footprint (106 × 179 × 94 mm) and lightweight construction (1.8 kg) facilitate integration into space-constrained instrument enclosures while maintaining thermal stability under continuous duty.
Key Features
- Oil-free operation ensures zero hydrocarbon backstreaming—critical for sensitive surface science, GC-MS interfaces, and vacuum chamber integrity.
- Brushless DC motor provides precise speed regulation, reduced acoustic noise (<52 dB(A)), and high efficiency over wide ambient temperature ranges (5–40 °C).
- Robust diaphragm assembly with chemically resistant EPDM/NBR elastomers enables compatibility with mildly aggressive vapors encountered in solvent degassing and sample preparation workflows.
- Integrated thermal protection and current monitoring circuitry support safe, unattended operation in 24/7 laboratory environments.
- Low-voltage DC input (24 V nominal) simplifies power supply design for embedded OEM systems and enhances electrical safety compliance per IEC 61010-1.
- No routine maintenance required—diaphragms and valves are rated for >10,000 hours of operation under typical load conditions.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The N84.4 ANDC B is suitable for handling dry, non-condensable gases and low-concentration solvent vapors typical in vacuum desiccation, freeze-drying support, and analytical sample degassing. It is not intended for continuous pumping of condensable solvents, corrosive gases (e.g., Cl₂, NH₃), or particulate-laden streams without upstream filtration. The pump conforms to EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and meets CE marking requirements under the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. While not certified to ISO 8573-1 for compressed air purity, its oil-free architecture inherently satisfies Class 0 (zero oil content) requirements for vacuum-side cleanliness in ISO 8573-6:2010.
Software & Data Management
As a standalone analog-controlled pump, the N84.4 ANDC B does not include onboard digital communication interfaces (e.g., RS-485, CAN bus, or USB). However, its 0–10 V analog speed input allows seamless integration with third-party PID controllers, PLCs, or custom LabVIEW/Python-based vacuum sequencing logic. When deployed in regulated environments (e.g., GLP/GMP-compliant labs), users may implement external audit trails via programmable logic controllers logging voltage setpoints, runtime hours, and thermal fault events. For FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, system-level validation must address traceability of pump operational parameters through documented calibration of the analog control loop and verification of interlock responses.
Applications
- Forevacuum support for turbomolecular pumps in residual gas analyzers (RGAs), electron microscopes, and thin-film deposition systems.
- Vacuum degassing of solvents, resins, and polymer precursors prior to casting or spectroscopic analysis.
- Sample preparation for X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) where hydrocarbon-free vacuum is mandatory.
- Portable vacuum generators for field-deployable gas chromatography modules and environmental monitoring sensors.
- OEM integration into automated liquid handling platforms requiring intermittent vacuum aspiration for pipette tip ejection or plate drying.
FAQ
Can the N84.4 ANDC B be used continuously at its maximum vacuum level?
Yes—it is rated for continuous duty at ultimate vacuum (2 mbar), though sustained operation near this limit reduces long-term diaphragm fatigue life; optimal longevity is achieved when operated between 10–50 mbar.
Is this pump compatible with vacuum gauges using Pirani or capacitance manometer sensors?
Yes—its clean, pulse-minimized exhaust and stable flow profile ensure accurate pressure readouts from both sensor types without signal drift or hysteresis.
Does KNF provide mounting brackets or vibration isolation kits for this model?
Standard M4 threaded inserts are provided on the baseplate; optional silicone damping feet (part #ZB-100) and aluminum mounting plates (part #MP-N84) are available separately.
What is the expected lifetime under typical lab use (8 hrs/day, 5 days/week)?
Based on accelerated life testing, mean time between failures (MTBF) exceeds 25,000 operating hours when ambient temperature remains below 35 °C and inlet gas is particle-free.
Can the pump be retrofitted with a digital controller or IoT interface?
No internal upgrade path exists—but KNF offers the N84.4 ANDC B-DC variant with integrated CANopen interface for advanced OEM telemetry and remote diagnostics.
