VACUUBRAND MZ 2C NT+AK+EK Chemical Vacuum System

Overview

The VACUUBRAND MZ 2C NT+AK+EK is a fully integrated, oil-free chemical vacuum system engineered for demanding applications in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical R&D, and life science laboratories. Based on dual-stage diaphragm pump technology, it delivers stable, pulsation-free vacuum generation without lubricants—eliminating risk of oil backstreaming or sample contamination. Its core architecture integrates three functional modules: the MZ 2C NT vacuum pump unit, an inlet safety trap (AK) fabricated from borosilicate glass with protective polymer shrink sleeve, and an exhaust-side solvent condenser (EK) designed for high-efficiency vapor recovery. This configuration enables reliable operation under aggressive chemical vapors—including acetone, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and methanol—while maintaining consistent ultimate vacuum performance down to 5 mbar (torr) absolute. The system operates silently (45 dBA at 50 Hz) with minimal mechanical vibration, making it suitable for shared lab environments and sensitive instrumentation such as rotary evaporators, vacuum concentrators, freeze dryers, and vacuum ovens.

Key Features

• Dual-stage diaphragm design ensures continuous, oil-free vacuum generation with high chemical resistance across all wetted surfaces (EPDM and FKM elastomers, PTFE-coated diaphragms, stainless steel valves)
• Integrated AK inlet trap: borosilicate glass construction with impact-resistant shrink sleeve prevents liquid carryover and particulate ingress into the pump head
• High-efficiency EK exhaust condenser achieves >95% solvent recovery under standard operating conditions—reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and enabling solvent reuse per green lab protocols
• Gas ballast valve allows operation under saturated vapor loads while maintaining stable base pressure; ultimate vacuum remains ≤12 mbar (torr) absolute even with ballast engaged
• Robust motor with thermal overload protection, rated IP40 for laboratory-grade environmental resilience
• Compact footprint (326 × 243 × 402 mm) and low weight (14.2 kg) support benchtop deployment and easy repositioning
• ATEX-certified version (II 3G IIC T3 X) approved for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (Zone 2/22), compliant with Directive 2014/34/EU

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MZ 2C NT+AK+EK is validated for continuous duty with common organic solvents, acidic and basic aqueous solutions, and mild halogenated vapors. All fluid-path components comply with ISO 8573-1 Class 0 (oil-free air/vacuum) requirements. The system meets NRTL certification standards for electrical safety in North America (UL/CSA 61010-1) and carries CE marking per EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU. For regulated environments—including GLP and GMP laboratories—the pump’s stable performance, documented maintenance intervals, and absence of consumable oils simplify audit readiness. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11-compliant (as it lacks digital data logging), its analog control interface supports integration into validated vacuum networks via external pressure transducers and PLC-controlled solenoid valves.

Software & Data Management

This is a standalone analog vacuum system with no embedded microprocessor or digital interface. Vacuum level is monitored externally using calibrated pressure gauges (e.g., Pirani or capacitance manometers), and process parameters are recorded manually or via third-party DAQ systems. Optional accessories—including vacuum-rated silicone tubing (DN 8 mm) and upgrade kits with solenoid valves (e.g., part #699906)—enable automated start/stop logic synchronized with connected instruments (e.g., rotovaps). No proprietary software is required; integration into LIMS or ELN platforms occurs at the instrument controller level—not at the pump.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation of heat-sensitive compounds under controlled vacuum (20–100 mbar range)
• Vacuum concentration of biological samples (DNA, proteins, cell lysates) without thermal degradation
• Drying of hygroscopic or oxidation-prone materials in vacuum desiccators or ovens
• Distillation and fractional extraction workflows requiring solvent recycling
• Gas-phase sampling and purge-and-trap preparation for GC analysis
• Deaeration of resins, adhesives, and coating formulations prior to casting or curing

FAQ

Is the MZ 2C NT+AK+EK suitable for use with highly corrosive gases such as HCl or Cl₂?
No. While chemically resistant to common organic solvents and mild acids/bases, it is not rated for continuous exposure to strong oxidizers or halogens. Consult VACUUBRAND’s chemical compatibility chart before use with aggressive media.
Can the EK condenser be retrofitted to an existing MZ 2C NT pump?
Yes—provided the pump is equipped with the correct exhaust port geometry and cooling water connections (two DN 6–8 mm hose barbs). Retrofit requires part #EK-MZ2C and compatible mounting hardware.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for routine operation?
Diaphragms and valves should be inspected every 6,000 operating hours or annually—whichever occurs first. The AK trap should be cleaned after each solvent-intensive run; the EK condenser requires periodic descaling if used with water-miscible solvents.
Does this system meet ISO 5343 vibration criteria for laboratory instrumentation?
Yes. Measured vibration acceleration at the pump housing is <0.25 m/s² RMS (10–1000 Hz), satisfying ISO 5343 Category B (laboratory equipment) requirements.
Is the ATEX certification valid for both 115 V and 230 V models?
No—ATEX approval applies exclusively to the 230 V version (designated “II 3G IIC T3 X”). The 115 V variant is NRTL-listed but not ATEX-certified.