VACUUBRAND MD 12C NT+EK Three-Stage Chemical-Resistant Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND MD 12C NT+EK is a three-stage, oil-free chemical diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for demanding laboratory and pilot-scale applications where high chemical resistance, solvent tolerance, and reliable ultimate vacuum performance are critical. Based on VACUUBRAND’s proven multi-stage diaphragm architecture, the MD 12C NT+EK operates via positive displacement using PTFE-coated, elastomer-reinforced diaphragms and chemically inert valve assemblies—eliminating lubricants and preventing cross-contamination. Its triple-stage configuration enables both high volumetric throughput (up to 12.3 m³/h at 60 Hz) and deep ultimate vacuum (≤1.5 mbar absolute), making it particularly suitable for rotary evaporation of high-boiling-point solvents (e.g., DMSO, DMF, ethylene glycol), freeze drying, vacuum filtration, and controlled atmosphere synthesis. The integrated EK cold trap—mounted directly at the exhaust—is a key differentiator: it condenses solvent vapors before atmospheric release, achieving near-quantitative recovery (>95% under optimized conditions) and minimizing environmental emissions and operator exposure.

Key Features

• Three-stage diaphragm design delivering balanced performance across pumping speed (11.1–12.3 m³/h) and ultimate vacuum (2–1.5 mbar absolute)
• Full-body chemical resistance: wetted parts constructed from PTFE, FEP, EPDM, and stainless steel; compatible with aggressive organic solvents, acids, and bases per VACUUBRAND’s published chemical compatibility matrix
• Integrated gas ballast (NT variant) maintains stable ultimate vacuum even during continuous vapor load—critical for sustained evaporation without vacuum collapse
• Low-noise operation (52 dBA at 50 Hz) and minimal mechanical vibration ensure compatibility with sensitive instrumentation (e.g., mass spectrometers, optical benches)
• Compact footprint (528 × 387 × 395 mm) and rigid aluminum housing support benchtop integration in space-constrained labs
• ATEX-certified (II 3G IIC T3 X) for safe use in potentially explosive atmospheres—valid for 230 V models operating in internal environments only
• Two independent cooling water inlets (DN 6–8 mm) enable active thermal management during extended duty cycles or high-vapor-load operation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MD 12C NT+EK is routinely deployed in ISO 17025-accredited analytical laboratories, GMP-compliant pharmaceutical R&D facilities, and university chemistry departments performing GLP-aligned studies. Its all-dry, solvent-tolerant construction meets stringent requirements for residue-free vacuum processes—particularly where USP , ASTM D2671, and ISO 8573-1 Class 0 (oil-free air) equivalency are implicitly required. While not inherently FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliant (as a standalone hardware device), its operational parameters—including motor runtime, temperature trends, and gas ballast status—can be logged externally via optional analog/digital I/O modules for audit-trail generation in regulated workflows. All materials comply with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and REACH Annex XVII restrictions.

Software & Data Management

As a stand-alone electromechanical instrument, the MD 12C NT+EK does not incorporate embedded firmware or proprietary control software. It operates via direct mains connection (230 V~ 50–60 Hz) with manual gas ballast actuation and external cooling loop regulation. However, system-level integration is supported through standard 0–10 V analog inputs (optional accessory) for remote start/stop and speed modulation, enabling synchronization with rotary evaporator controllers or PLC-based process automation. Vacuum level monitoring requires an external digital vacuum gauge (e.g., VACUUBRAND DVR 2 or equivalent) connected upstream; data logging is achieved via third-party SCADA or LabVIEW-compatible acquisition systems. No cloud connectivity, firmware updates, or cybersecurity protocols apply—consistent with industrial-grade vacuum equipment design philosophy.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation of thermally labile compounds and high-boiling solvents (bp >150 °C) under controlled vacuum
• Vacuum-assisted crystallization and solvent exchange in API purification workflows
• Freeze drying (lyophilization) pre-evacuation and secondary drying stages
• Gas-phase reaction setup requiring inert or reduced-pressure environments (e.g., Schlenk line backing)
• Environmental sample preparation: purge-and-trap concentration, solid-phase extraction (SPE) manifold evacuation
• Materials science: degassing of polymer precursors, vacuum impregnation of porous matrices

FAQ

Is the MD 12C NT+EK suitable for continuous-duty operation with saturated solvent vapors?
Yes—its three-stage design, integrated gas ballast, and EK cold trap collectively enable stable long-term operation under sustained vapor loads, provided cooling water flow and ambient temperature remain within specification (10–40 °C).
Can the EK cold trap be retrofitted to an existing MD 12C NT pump?
Yes—the EK module is mechanically and pneumatically compatible with the MD 12C NT base unit; installation requires only standard KF DN 25 clamps and alignment of exhaust ports.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for routine operation?
Diaphragm and valve set replacement is advised every 6,000–8,000 operating hours under typical chemical lab conditions; inspection of cooling hoses and gas ballast seal integrity should occur quarterly.
Does the pump require a dedicated electrical circuit?
A dedicated 16 A circuit is recommended due to inrush current during startup; voltage fluctuation must remain within ±10% of rated 230 V~ to prevent motor stress.
Is the DN 10 mm exhaust connection compatible with standard vacuum tubing?
Yes—it accepts reinforced silicone or Viton® tubing with 10 mm ID; use of non-collapsible, anti-static tubing is strongly advised for solvent-laden exhaust streams.