When performing a vacuum filtration, the solvent present can dictate the pump used. This is because some pumps are not “chemical duty” – with seals that work well with water vapours, but could degrade over time if exposed to organic solvent or acidic or basic vapours.
We have taken a look at some of the common solvent categories and which vacuum pumps are most suited for use with them to give a long service life.
Aqueous Vapours (Water)
- Example solvents; water or water based liquid
- Example applications; suspended solids analysis, food slurry analysis, removing water from solids of interest
- Pump choices; since water vapours are not corrosive, a WOB-L pump or a basic Dry Vacuum Pump would be sufficient.
Mild Chemical Vapours
- Example solvents; weak acids, weak alkalis or bases
- Example applications; environmental study field samples that may contain traces of acids or chemicals, chemical lab samples known to be in weak acid or base as a solvent
- Pump choices; the MPC090E pump
Low-volume Organic Vapours
- Example solvents; alcohol solutions
- Example applications; solid phase extractions with alcohol solutions, heavily contaminated field samples
- Pump choices; the MPC090E model, or MPC105T
Strong Chemical Vapours
- Example solvents; chlorinated solvents, strong acids or strong alkalis / bases, ketones
- Example applications; chemical extractions using chlorinated solvents, workup or isolation after organic synthesis, any sample with a noticeably strong odour or pH
- Pump choices; MPC301E
Of course there are a wide variety of pumps available, to suit all sizes, budgets and applications – but ensuring the pump you choose is compatible with the chemicals present will make sure you achieve a long service life.
Follow the links above to find out more about the recommended pumps, try the filters on our pump page here, or contact us with any queries;