VACUUBRAND MV 10C EX +AK +EK ATEX-Certified Explosion-Proof Chemical Diaphragm Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND MV 10C EX +AK +EK is an intrinsically safe, ATEX-certified oil-free diaphragm vacuum pump engineered for continuous, reliable operation in potentially explosive atmospheres—specifically Zone 1 and Zone 2 (gas) environments as defined under Directive 2014/34/EU. Its design integrates dual-layer explosion protection: the internal pumping chamber (wetted parts) complies with II 2G IIC T3 X classification, enabling safe handling of highly flammable vapors such as acetone, ether, or ethyl acetate; simultaneously, the motor and external housing meet II 2G Ex d IIB T4 requirements, ensuring robust containment of ignition sources. Unlike lubricated rotary vane pumps, this unit operates without oil, eliminating hydrocarbon backstreaming, vapor contamination, and maintenance-intensive oil changes—critical for solvent-intensive applications including rotary evaporation, vacuum drying, freeze-drying, and vacuum filtration in pharmaceutical, fine chemical, and academic research laboratories.

Key Features

• ATEX-certified wetted components constructed from chemically resistant PTFE, FPM (Viton®), EPDM, and antistatic polymers—resistant to aggressive solvents, acidic/basic vapors, and condensable organic steam
• Dual-motor configuration (MV 10C EX includes two independent motors) with integrated thermal and overload protection, self-locking circuitry, and automatic shutdown on fault detection
• Gas ballast (AK module) enables controlled admission of inert gas (e.g., N₂ or Ar) into the compression stage to prevent condensation and maintain stable vacuum during high-vapor-load operations
• Diaphragm rupture detection system (EK module) monitors pressure differentials across the primary diaphragm stack and triggers immediate shutdown upon breach—preventing cross-contamination and safeguarding downstream instrumentation
• Exhaust overpressure safety relief valve rated to 1.1 bar (abs.), compliant with PED 2014/68/EU for pressure equipment
• IP54-rated enclosure ensures protection against dust ingress and water splashing from any direction—suitable for installation in shared lab utility spaces or fume hood exhaust manifolds

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MV 10C EX +AK +EK is validated for use with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), halogenated solvents, low-boiling esters, and reactive monomers—provided operating temperatures remain ≤40 °C and inlet partial pressures do not exceed the pump’s vapor tolerance limits. All wetted materials conform to FDA 21 CFR §177.1550 (PTFE) and EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 for food-contact safety. The pump satisfies essential health and safety requirements of the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU. Documentation includes full EU Declaration of Conformity, ATEX certificate issued by notified body PTB (Certificate No. 06 ATEX 2043 X), and traceable material declarations for GLP/GMP audit readiness.

Software & Data Management

While the MV 10C EX +AK +EK operates as a standalone analog device (no embedded microcontroller or digital interface), its electrical architecture supports integration into centralized lab automation systems via dry-contact relay outputs (optional AK/EK status signals). The dual-motor design allows for programmable sequencing—e.g., staged startup, duty-cycling, or failover protocols—when interfaced with PLCs or building management systems (BMS). All operational parameters—including motor current draw, temperature thresholds, and diaphragm integrity status—are accessible via hardwired terminals per IEC 61000-6-2/6-4 emission standards. Full compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 is achievable when paired with validated SCADA platforms that enforce electronic signature, audit trail, and user access control policies.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation under explosive vapor conditions (e.g., ethanol recovery from cannabis extracts or pyrophoric catalyst workups)
• Vacuum drying ovens processing lithium battery electrode slurries or metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)
• Short-path distillation of thermally sensitive fragrances and pharmaceutical intermediates
• Inert-atmosphere glovebox evacuation and purge cycles (integrated with N₂/Ar supply via AK gas ballast port)
• High-purity vacuum filtration of nanoparticle suspensions where oil contamination would compromise colloidal stability
• Process-scale lyophilization support where ATEX compliance is mandated by site-specific hazardous area zoning

FAQ

Is the MV 10C EX +AK +EK suitable for continuous duty at full speed?
Yes—the pump is rated for S1 continuous operation at 1500 rpm under ambient temperatures of 10–40 °C, provided inlet vapor load remains within specified condensable limits and gas ballast is engaged for high-humidity or solvent-rich streams.
Can the pump be mounted vertically or only horizontally?
It must be installed horizontally on a rigid, level surface with ≥100 mm clearance around all sides for thermal dissipation and service access; vertical mounting voids ATEX certification and compromises diaphragm longevity.
What inert gases are compatible with the AK gas ballast system?
Nitrogen (N₂), argon (Ar), and helium (He) are fully compatible; compressed air is strictly prohibited due to oxygen content and potential ignition risk in Zone 1 environments.
Does the EK diaphragm monitoring system require calibration?
No—the EK module employs fixed-pressure-differential sensing with factory-set thresholds; however, functional verification using the test port and supplied pressure gauge is recommended prior to first use and annually thereafter.
Are replacement diaphragms supplied with batch-specific certificates of conformance?
Yes—each diaphragm kit (Order No. 686040) includes a material traceability report listing polymer lot numbers, tensile strength test results per ISO 37, and extractables data compliant with USP .