ROCKER Chemker 300 Corrosion-Resistant Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The ROCKER Chemker 300 is an oil-free, corrosion-resistant diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for reliable and contamination-free operation in demanding laboratory environments. It operates on a positive displacement principle using PTFE-coated or PTFE-constructed diaphragms, valves, and gas pathways—ensuring chemical inertness against aggressive vapors including organic solvents, mineral acids, alkalis, and halogenated compounds. Unlike rotary vane pumps, the Chemker 300 eliminates oil carryover, hydrocarbon contamination, and scheduled lubrication, making it ideal for applications where sample integrity, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational stability are critical. Its ultimate vacuum of 99 mbar (abs) and continuous flow rate of 18 L/min support routine vacuum tasks such as filtration, solvent removal, solid-phase extraction (SPE), and electrophoretic transfer—without compromising on safety or material compatibility.

Key Features

• Chemically inert wetted parts: All gas-contact surfaces—including diaphragm, valves, and chamber—are fabricated from or lined with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), delivering broad resistance to corrosive gases and vapors.
• True oil-free operation: No lubricating oil required; eliminates risk of oil mist generation, cross-contamination, and maintenance downtime associated with oil changes or filter replacements.
• Integrated thermal protection: A bimetallic temperature switch embedded in the motor windings automatically interrupts power during overheating events, allowing passive cooling before auto-restart—enhancing pump longevity and system safety.
• Low-noise, low-vibration architecture: Direct-drive motor coupling and optimized diaphragm stroke dynamics reduce mechanical resonance, achieving sound pressure levels ≤50 dB(A) at 1 m—suitable for shared lab spaces and noise-sensitive workflows.
• Compact and lightweight design: Measuring only 20.3 × 11.2 × 20.9 cm and weighing 5.0 kg, the Chemker 300 integrates seamlessly into fume hoods, glove boxes, and modular benchtop setups without occupying excessive footprint.
• CE-certified electrical safety: Complies with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, ensuring conformity with essential health and safety requirements for laboratory equipment.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Chemker 300 is validated for use with chemically aggressive media commonly encountered in analytical, pharmaceutical, and environmental laboratories. Its PTFE-wetted path enables safe handling of HCl, HNO₃, HF (dilute), NaOH, acetone, chloroform, THF, and acetonitrile vapors—provided vapor concentrations remain within ASHRAE-recommended exposure limits and condensable load does not exceed dew point thresholds. While not rated for explosive atmospheres (ATEX), the pump meets IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards. For GLP/GMP-regulated environments, its consistent performance profile supports audit-ready documentation when paired with external vacuum controllers or data loggers compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.

Software & Data Management

The Chemker 300 operates as a standalone analog device and does not incorporate onboard digital control or firmware. However, it is fully compatible with third-party vacuum regulation systems—including ROCKER’s optional Chemker Series pressure control valve (Part No. 169300-22)—which enables precise, stepless vacuum adjustment between atmospheric pressure and 99 mbar. When integrated into automated workflows, the pump can be monitored via external pressure transducers and logged using LabVIEW, MATLAB, or ELN platforms supporting analog voltage (0–10 V) or 4–20 mA input signals. No proprietary drivers or cloud connectivity are required, simplifying validation and reducing cybersecurity surface area.

Applications

• Vacuum-assisted filtration of corrosive filtrates in environmental water analysis (e.g., EPA Method 1664, ASTM D7066).
• Electroblotting and semi-dry transfer in Western blotting protocols where solvent-based transfer buffers (e.g., methanol-containing SDS-PAGE gels) require inert vacuum sources.
• Sample preparation for LC-MS and GC-MS, including solvent exchange and derivatization under reduced pressure without introducing hydrocarbon artifacts.
• Acid digestion fume extraction in trace metal analysis (ICP-MS/OES), where HNO₃/HF mixtures necessitate non-metallic gas pathways.
• Controlled evaporation in parallel synthesis reactors operating under mild vacuum conditions (<100 mbar).

FAQ

Is the Chemker 300 suitable for continuous duty operation?

Yes—it is rated for indefinite intermittent or continuous duty cycles, provided ambient temperature remains below 40 °C and inlet gas load does not exceed 70% relative humidity or contain particulates >5 µm.
Can it be used with aggressive fluorinated compounds such as SF₆ or NF₃?

PTFE offers excellent resistance to most fluorinated gases; however, prolonged exposure to NF₃ under elevated temperature/pressure may cause gradual degradation. Consult ROCKER’s chemical compatibility chart before deployment.
Does the pump include a built-in vacuum gauge?

No—the Chemker 300 is a fixed-output vacuum source. For real-time pressure monitoring, an external digital vacuum gauge or analog transducer must be installed in-line.
What is the expected service life under normal laboratory use?

With proper installation (level mounting, adequate ventilation, and avoidance of liquid ingress), typical diaphragm lifespan exceeds 10,000 hours; replacement kits (diaphragm, valves, gaskets) are available as consumables.
Is it compatible with vacuum ovens or freeze dryers?

It is not recommended for primary use with high-capacity vacuum ovens or lyophilizers due to its 18 L/min flow rate and 99 mbar limit—better suited for benchtop filtration and small-volume solvent removal applications.