VACUUBRAND MD 4C EX VARIO ATEX-Certified Chemical-Resistant Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND MD 4C EX VARIO is a high-integrity, ATEX-certified, oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for safe and reliable operation in potentially explosive atmospheres—specifically Zone 1 (gas) and Zone 2 (gas), as defined under EU Directive 2014/34/EU. Designed for integration with rotary evaporators, vacuum ovens, freeze dryers, and other laboratory vacuum systems requiring intrinsically safe performance, this four-stage, three-head diaphragm pump delivers robust vacuum generation without lubricating oils or hydrocarbon vapors—eliminating cross-contamination risks and ensuring compliance with stringent clean process requirements. Its core architecture employs chemically resistant elastomers (including FKM and EPDM variants) and anti-static conductive materials across all wetted components, enabling stable operation with aggressive solvents such as acetone, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and concentrated acids. The pump operates on the principle of positive displacement via oscillating PTFE-coated diaphragms, driven by a flameproof induction motor (ATEX II 2G Ex d IIB T4 Gb), with full explosion protection extending to both internal gas pathways (II 2G IIC T3X) and external housing environments—whether purged with inert gas (II 2G IIB T4 X) or un-purged (II 3G IIB T4 X).

Key Features

• ATEX-certified dual-zone protection covering both pumped gas chamber and external enclosure—validated per EN 60079-0, -1, -7, and -31
• VARIO® speed-controlled drive enabling dynamic vacuum regulation: 0–1500 rpm via 4–20 mA analog signal (4 mA = 0 rpm, 20 mA = 1500 rpm), minimizing energy consumption and mechanical wear
• Four-stage, three-head diaphragm configuration achieving ultimate vacuum down to 3 mbar (2.3 torr) absolute and pumping speed up to 3.7 m³/h (2.2 cfm)
• Gas ballast (inert gas purge interface included) allows controlled admission of nitrogen or argon to prevent condensate buildup and extend service intervals
• All wetted surfaces constructed from chemically inert, static-dissipative materials—including PTFE-coated diaphragms, FKM valve assemblies, and EPDM seals—ensuring compatibility with >95% of common organic and inorganic laboratory solvents
• IP54-rated housing with integrated thermal overload protection, ambient temperature tolerance from 10–40 °C, and acoustic emission ≤53 dB(A) at 1 m distance

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MD 4C EX VARIO is validated for continuous duty with vapors generated during solvent removal, distillation, and drying processes involving Class IIA, IIB, and IIC gases per IEC 60079-20-1. Its construction meets ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 0 purity requirements for oil-free air/vacuum, supporting GLP and GMP workflows where hydrocarbon contamination must be excluded. The pump complies with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, and RoHS 2011/65/EU. For regulated pharmaceutical or fine chemical applications, it supports audit-ready documentation packages including Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) reports, material traceability records (EN 10204 3.1), and ATEX conformity declarations issued by notified body PTB (Germany).

Software & Data Management

While the MD 4C EX VARIO operates as a stand-alone analog-controlled device, it integrates seamlessly into automated vacuum networks via optional CVC 3000 vacuum controller—a microprocessor-based unit supporting PID-regulated setpoint control, real-time pressure logging (up to 10,000 data points), and digital I/O expansion (e.g., RS485 Modbus RTU, 0–10 V analog output). When paired with ATEX-certified vacuum sensors (e.g., VACUUBRAND DPT-100 EX), the system enables closed-loop feedback control compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with validated electronic lab notebook (ELN) or LIMS platforms. All operational parameters—including runtime, total cycles, and fault logs—are accessible via front-panel display or remote monitoring through optional IO modules.

Applications

• Solvent recovery and concentration under reduced pressure in ATEX-classified fume hoods or explosion-proof enclosures
• Vacuum drying of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and catalysts where oxygen exclusion and solvent residue limits are critical
• Rotary evaporation of flammable mixtures (e.g., ether, pentane, THF) in pilot-scale synthesis labs
• Freeze-drying of thermolabile biologics using inert gas backfilling protocols
• Evacuation of gloveboxes and inert-atmosphere reactors prior to catalyst loading or air-sensitive reagent transfer
• Supporting ASTM E2910-22 (Standard Practice for Vacuum Drying of Pharmaceuticals) and USP <1229> Sterilization of Pharmaceutical Products

FAQ

What ATEX zones does the MD 4C EX VARIO cover?
It is certified for Zone 1 (II 2G IIC T3X for pumped gas; II 2G Ex d IIB T4 Gb for motor) and Zone 2 (II 3G IIB T4 X for unpurged external environment).
Can it be used with corrosive acid vapors such as HCl or HF?
Yes—when equipped with optional FKM diaphragms and EPDM seals; consult VACUUBRAND’s chemical compatibility chart (Ref. CC-EX-2023) for specific exposure limits.
Is the pump supplied with gas ballast tubing and fittings?
A dedicated inert gas inlet port is provided; however, PTFE tubing (KF DN 25, Art. No. 686033) and regulator accessories must be ordered separately.
Does the 4–20 mA control interface support HART or Profibus communication?
No—the analog input is strictly current-loop only; digital protocols require integration via the CVC 3000 controller with optional fieldbus gateway module.
What maintenance intervals are recommended under continuous ATEX operation?
Diaphragm replacement every 6,000 operating hours or 12 months (whichever occurs first); valve inspection every 2,000 hours; full service kit (Art. No. 696937) includes all wear parts and calibration certificate.