ROCKER Tanker 215 Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump

Overview

The ROCKER Tanker 215 is an oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pump engineered for reliable, continuous operation in laboratory environments requiring medium-to-high vacuum levels and stable volumetric flow. Based on the proven Couette-type displacement principle, the pump employs precision-machined rotating vanes within an eccentrically mounted rotor to compress gas continuously from the inlet to the exhaust port. This mechanical design delivers a nominal ultimate vacuum of 0.07 mbar (≈0.05 Torr) and a free-air displacement rate of 42 L/min — making it suitable for applications where both vacuum depth and throughput must be maintained under variable load conditions. Its robust cast-aluminum housing, balanced rotor assembly, and thermally stable oil circulation system ensure long-term dimensional integrity and consistent performance across extended duty cycles.

Key Features

• Oil-lubricated rotary vane architecture optimized for high vacuum stability and low ultimate pressure
• Integrated thermal cut-off switch embedded in the motor winding, automatically de-energizing the unit at preset temperature thresholds and enabling auto-restart upon cooling
• Low-noise operation at 52 dB(A) measured at 1 m distance, achieved through acoustic damping housings and vibration-isolated mounting feet
• Standard CE marking compliant with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
• Optional oil mist filter available as an accessory to minimize hydrocarbon vapor emissions and meet indoor air quality requirements per ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom guidelines
• Built-in oil sight glass and drain valve for routine maintenance and oil level verification without disassembly

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Tanker 215 is compatible with standard laboratory vacuum interfaces including 1/4″ and 3/8″ NPT ports and accepts common vacuum tubing materials (e.g., silicone, Viton®, and reinforced PVC). It is designed for use with non-corrosive, non-condensable gases; for vapors prone to condensation or chemically aggressive media, cold traps or scrubbers are recommended upstream. The pump meets general-purpose safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for lab-grade equipment and supports GLP-compliant workflows when paired with validated accessories and documented maintenance logs. While not intrinsically safe, its CE certification confirms conformity with essential health and safety protection requirements applicable to non-hazardous area installations.

Software & Data Management

The Tanker 215 operates as a standalone electromechanical device with no embedded microcontroller or digital interface. As such, it does not feature onboard data logging, remote control, or software integration capabilities. However, its consistent performance parameters — including stable base pressure, repeatable pump-down times, and predictable power draw — facilitate integration into automated vacuum systems via external pressure transducers (e.g., capacitance manometers), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), or LabVIEW-based acquisition platforms. Users performing IQ/OQ/PQ validation can document operational parameters using calibrated external instrumentation traceable to NIST standards, supporting audit readiness under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when electronic records are employed.

Applications

• Vacuum filtration of aqueous and organic solutions using Buchner funnels or Hirsch-type filter assemblies
• Controlled drying of heat-sensitive samples in vacuum desiccators and benchtop vacuum ovens
• Rotary evaporation support for solvent removal under reduced pressure
• Centrifugal concentration systems requiring stable sub-100 mbar vacuum levels
• Evacuation of glove boxes, sample chambers, and analytical instrument enclosures prior to inert gas purging
• General-purpose vacuum supply for vacuum-assisted liquid handling, degassing of resins, and vacuum impregnation processes

FAQ

Is the Tanker 215 suitable for pumping corrosive or solvent-laden vapors?
No — this oil-lubricated rotary vane pump is intended for clean, dry, non-reactive gases. For aggressive or condensable vapors, a dry scroll pump or chemically resistant diaphragm pump is recommended.
What type of vacuum oil is required, and how often should it be changed?
ROCKER recommends ISO VG 100 mineral-based vacuum oil. Oil change intervals depend on usage intensity and process conditions; typical service life ranges from 500–1000 operating hours under normal laboratory loads.
Can the pump be operated continuously for 24/7 applications?
Yes — the thermal protection circuit and sealed bearing design support uninterrupted operation, provided ambient temperature remains below 40°C and adequate ventilation is maintained around the exhaust and cooling fins.
Does the unit include an oil mist filter by default?
No — the oil mist filter is an optional accessory. It is strongly advised for installations in shared laboratory spaces to comply with occupational exposure limits for airborne oil aerosols (ACGIH TLV®: 5 mg/m³ total particulate).
Is there a version compatible with 230 V / 50 Hz mains supply?
Yes — dual-voltage variants (200–240 V / 50 Hz) are available upon request and ship with region-specific IEC 60320 C13 inlet connectors and appropriate fusing.