Vacuum pumps are a very versatile piece of laboratory equipment that serve a number of purposes, the number one being their ability to suction via negative pressure. They can be routinely used in biological labs for filtration, solid phase extraction, distillation and concentration of volatile solids, freeze-drying and others.
When looking to invest in vacuum pumps, a lot needs to be considered. Here are some important attributes to look at while you are deciding on a new pump for your lab.
Oil-free vacuum pumps
As the name suggests, these pumps use a dry lubricant instead of oil to prevent friction between the internal components. These components include the piston, scroll pumps or diaphragm. If the models are chemically resistant, they will be coated with PTEE and can be safely used with the corrosive gases. These pumps can be used and applied on large or small-scale extractions and membrane filtrations. They are low in maintenance and portable in nature so can be used easily for a long time.
Rotary vane vacuum pumps
The rotary vane vacuum pumps are oil-sealed in nature and are perfect to be used in the labs that require stronger and consistent vacuum pressure below 10-3 mbar. These pumps are typically used in hydraulic braking systems, mass spectrometry and freeze dryers. One might face difficulty in finding replacement parts for these pumps, or disposing of their toxic oil can also be an issue sometimes.
Water aspirators
The primary function of the aspirators is to create suction with the help of negative water pressure. The aspirator is normally connected to a tap, and then the suction is created with the help of a hose. The tap water then flows through the nozzle at a very high speed. The aspirated fluid then mixes with the wastewater in a separate sink or a collection bucket. The aspirators are generally very easy to use and do not cost you a lot. But they will need continuous water flow to run efficiently, and they cannot be used with any hazardous materials. Further, they are not as strong as a wet or dry vacuum pump, and their performances will completely vary depending on how smooth or strong the water is flowing and what its temperature is.
LeDab vacuum pumps can take care of all your specific needs without creating a hole in your pocket. Check out their vast collection of high pressure pumps kent wa today.
