VACUUBRAND RZ 6 Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump

Overview

The VACUUBRAND RZ 6 is a two-stage, oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pump engineered for reliable performance in demanding laboratory and pilot-scale process applications. Based on proven Couette-flow compression principles, the RZ 6 achieves high volumetric efficiency through precision-machined vanes rotating eccentrically within a cylindrical stator chamber, enabling continuous gas displacement from inlet to outlet. Its design prioritizes compactness without compromising ultimate vacuum capability or pumping speed—making it particularly suitable for applications requiring stable base pressures below 10⁻³ mbar while handling moderate condensable vapor loads. The integrated gas ballast system allows controlled admission of ambient air into the compression stage, significantly enhancing water vapor tolerance up to 40 mbar while maintaining acceptable ultimate pressure (1 × 10⁻² mbar) — a critical feature for solvent evaporation, freeze drying, and vacuum distillation workflows where intermittent moisture ingress is unavoidable.

Key Features

• Compact “telescope-style” housing architecture minimizes footprint (370 × 142 × 207 mm) while enabling rapid access to internal components for routine maintenance
• Large oil reservoir (0.73 L max.) extends service intervals and ensures thermal stability during extended operation at elevated duty cycles
• Integrated oil mist filter at exhaust port reduces environmental oil emissions and complies with local occupational hygiene requirements (e.g., DGUV Rule 109-002)
• Automatic vacuum retention upon shutdown eliminates need for external check valves — essential for preserving sample integrity in closed-loop systems
• Gas ballast valve operated manually or via optional solenoid actuation; enables real-time adjustment of vapor-handling capacity without interrupting pump operation
• IP 40-rated motor enclosure provides protection against solid objects ≥1 mm; suitable for standard laboratory environments per IEC 60529

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RZ 6 is compatible with a wide range of non-corrosive, non-explosive gases and vapors commonly encountered in chemical synthesis, materials processing, and analytical instrumentation. It is not intended for use with aggressive halogenated solvents (e.g., chloroform, carbon tetrachloride), strong oxidizers, or acidic vapors without prior consultation with VACUUBRAND technical support. When paired with appropriate cold traps (e.g., GKF 1000i) or inlet condensers (e.g., AK R 5/6), the system meets functional requirements outlined in ASTM E581 (Standard Practice for Vacuum System Integrity Testing) and supports GLP-compliant vacuum processes under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories. All factory-installed lubricants conform to DIN 51506 VDL specification and are fully compatible with USP Class VI elastomers used in associated vacuum tubing and seals.

Software & Data Management

While the RZ 6 operates as a standalone mechanical device without embedded digital controls, its analog interface supports integration into automated vacuum control systems via optional accessories. The KF DN 16 inlet and standardized hose nozzle outlet facilitate connection to third-party vacuum gauges (e.g., Pirani, capacitance manometers) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). For audit-ready documentation, users may pair the pump with VACUUBRAND’s optional Fine Vacuum Regulation Package (Paket Feinvakuumregelung, Art. No. 683201), which includes proportional vacuum control valves and analog 0–10 V signal interfaces compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity guidelines when deployed within validated SCADA architectures.

Applications

• Rotary evaporation of organic solvents under controlled vacuum conditions
• Freeze-drying (lyophilization) of biological samples and pharmaceutical formulations
• Vacuum filtration and degassing of polymer resins and coating solutions
• Backing pumps for turbomolecular and diffusion vacuum systems
• Evacuation of glove boxes and inert-atmosphere chambers
• Support vacuum for mass spectrometry sample introduction systems and electron microscopy specimen preparation

FAQ

What type of vacuum oil is recommended for the RZ 6?
VACUUBRAND recommends using only original VACUUBRAND B-type vacuum oil (Art. No. 698001), formulated to DIN 51506 VDL specifications. Substitution with generic mineral oils may compromise vapor pressure performance and accelerate vane wear.
Can the RZ 6 be operated continuously at its ultimate vacuum?
Yes — the pump is rated for continuous duty at ultimate pressure. However, sustained operation below 1 × 10⁻² mbar without gas ballast is discouraged when condensable vapors are present, as oil contamination may reduce long-term reliability.
Is the RZ 6 suitable for cleanroom environments?
With the FO R series oil mist filter installed and regular oil change intervals maintained, the RZ 6 meets ISO Class 5 (Class 100) particulate emission limits when measured at 1 m distance from the exhaust port.
Does the RZ 6 include vacuum gauge connectivity?
The pump features a dedicated 6 mm vacuum gauge port (G 1/4″ thread) on the inlet side, allowing direct mounting of analog or digital vacuum sensors for real-time pressure monitoring and logging.
What is the expected service life under normal laboratory usage?
Under typical academic or industrial lab conditions (8 h/day, 5 days/week), with biannual oil changes and annual vane inspection, mean time between overhauls exceeds 12,000 operating hours per ISO 28197-1 reliability testing protocols.