KNF N86KT.18 Compact Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The KNF N86KT.18 is a compact, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for precision and reliability in laboratory environments requiring clean, chemically resistant vacuum and pressure generation. Based on positive displacement via oscillating PTFE-coated diaphragms and FFKM (FFPM) valves, it operates without lubricants—eliminating risk of oil contamination, hydrocarbon backstreaming, or maintenance downtime associated with rotary vane or water-ring systems. Its robust PPS housing ensures structural integrity under thermal cycling and mechanical stress, while the chemically inert wetted path (PTFE-coated diaphragm + FFPM valve assembly) enables safe handling of aggressive vapors including organic solvents (e.g., acetone, methanol, THF), weak acids (e.g., dilute HCl, acetic acid), and alkaline gases (e.g., ammonia vapor). Designed for continuous 24/7 operation at ambient temperatures up to 40 °C, the N86KT.18 incorporates thermally optimized motor windings and low-power consumption electronics to prevent thermal shutdown—making it suitable for unattended overnight filtration, solvent recovery, or vacuum-assisted drying protocols.

Key Features

• Oil-free, maintenance-free operation with no lubrication requirements or oil changes
• Chemical resistance certified through PTFE-coated diaphragm and FFKM (FFPM) valve materials—validated per ASTM D471 for elastomer compatibility with common lab solvents
• Compact footprint (164 × 141 × 90 mm) optimized for benchtop integration in fume hoods, glove boxes, or modular analytical workstations
• Low vibration and acoustic emission (<52 dB(A) at 1 m) — compatible with sensitive instrumentation such as balances, microscopes, or mass spectrometry sample introduction lines
• Integrated thermal protection and current-limiting circuitry enabling uninterrupted duty cycles without manual intervention
• Modular port configuration supporting direct connection to vacuum gauges, pressure regulators, or multi-channel manifolds via standard 4 mm OD tubing

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N86KT.18 is validated for use with non-explosive, non-particulate gas streams typical in academic, pharmaceutical, and industrial QC laboratories. It complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), carries CE marking per EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, and is UL Recognized under file E177777 for Class 1, Division 2 hazardous location suitability (when installed per NEC Article 500). While not intrinsically safe, its spark-free design and absence of oil make it appropriate for Class I, Group D vapor environments when used downstream of appropriate condensers or scrubbers. All wetted materials meet USP Class VI and FDA 21 CFR 177.2430 (fluoroelastomers) and 177.2600 (polyphenylsulfone) standards. The pump supports GLP/GMP workflows through traceable serial-numbered calibration records and optional analog/digital output interfaces for audit-ready system integration.

Software & Data Management

The N86KT.18 operates as a standalone analog device but is fully compatible with third-party vacuum control systems via 0–10 VDC analog input (for speed modulation) and open-collector status output (for run/fault signaling). When integrated into automated platforms—such as those compliant with ISA-88 or ASTM E2500—its operational parameters (runtime, thermal events, pressure setpoint deviations) can be logged via PLC or SCADA systems. KNF provides detailed technical documentation (including dimensional drawings, material certifications, and EMC test reports) in English for inclusion in validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ). No proprietary software is required; all configuration and monitoring occur at the system level, ensuring compatibility with 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic record architectures when paired with validated data acquisition hardware.

Applications

• Vacuum-assisted filtration of aqueous and organic-phase samples using glass or polymeric filter holders (e.g., Buchner funnels, HPLC sample prep plates)
• Solvent recovery from rotary evaporators or distillation setups where oil-free vapor handling is critical to product purity
• Deaeration of resins, adhesives, or polymer precursors prior to casting or curing
• Gas blanketing and controlled-pressure purging in synthesis reactors or storage vessels
• Driving vacuum-driven solid-phase extraction (SPE) manifolds and microplate vacuum manifolds
• Replacement of water aspirators in teaching labs—reducing water consumption, eliminating freeze/thaw risks, and improving energy efficiency by >90% versus traditional water-ring pumps

FAQ

Can the N86KT.18 handle chlorinated solvents such as dichloromethane or chloroform?

Yes—its PTFE-coated diaphragm and FFKM valves exhibit excellent resistance to halogenated organics per ASTM D471 testing; however, prolonged exposure to high-concentration vapors above 30 °C may accelerate membrane fatigue and is not recommended without upstream condensation.
Is this pump suitable for vacuum oven applications requiring <50 mbar absolute pressure?

No—the N86KT.18 achieves a base pressure of 160 mbar (abs); for deeper vacuum, consider the KNF N811KT.18 (290 mbar ultimate vacuum) or cascade configurations with secondary backing pumps.
Does KNF provide calibration certificates traceable to NIST or DAkkS?

Yes—upon request, KNF issues factory calibration reports (pressure and flow verification) traceable to DAkkS-accredited laboratories; these are included in PQ documentation packages for regulated environments.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?

Rated for ≥20,000 hours MTBF (mean time between failures) when operated within specified ambient temperature (5–40 °C) and inlet vapor load limits; diaphragm replacement kits are available with full step-by-step service manuals.
Can the pump be mounted vertically or inverted?

Yes—its diaphragm architecture and sealed motor design allow flexible orientation; however, inlet/outlet ports must remain unobstructed and condensate traps should be installed if pumping condensable vapors.