To address this issue KNF Neuberger now offers the ability to customize its KNF N0150 diaphragm pumps with water-cooled heads to prevent pump overheating. Additionally, the KNF N0150 operates without the use of oil to eliminate risk of medium contamination and can be equipped with a double diaphragm system for increased safety when handling particularly dangerous gases.
KNF N0150 models include pumps that can reportedly achieve flow rates up to 300 L/min (10 SCFM), maximum vacuums up to 29.3 in. Hg, and maximum pressure up to 30 psig. They are also designed to exhibit low leak rates ranging from 6 x 10-3 mbar l/s (standard models) to 6 x 10-6 mbar l/s (double-diaphragm versions).
Beyond the water cooling option, these pumps can be supplied with explosion-proof motors for compliance with ATEX and Class 1 Division 1 Groups C and D hazardous locations. Corrosion-resistant models can also be developed to withstand harsh environments.
For highly specialized process industry applications where the use of specialty gases is commonplace, such as in radiopharmaceuticals, the need for specialized pumps becomes a practical necessity to avoid more frequent equipment replacements. The reason: pump overheating is a not uncommon occurrence due to exothermic reactions caused by processing of helium, xenon and other such gases. This overheating can shorten a pump’s service life.
