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;