Edwards Launches Special Variant to its nXDS Range of Scroll Pumps for More Aggressive Chemical Applications

Edwards Group Limited, a leading manufacturer of sophisticated vacuum products and abatement systems and a global provider of related value-added services, has launched a special variant to its nXDS range of dry scroll vacuum pumps which uses a Chemraz® exhaust valve and stainless steel inlet and outlet fittings, for use in more aggressive applications.

The nXDS-C features the Chemraz® exhaust valve which is used for applications involving pumping organic solvents or other materials that may attack the standard pumps’ fluroelastomer exhaust valve, causing it to deteriorate rapidly. In response to customer demand the nXDS-C variant has been introduced which includes the special exhaust valve pre-fitted as standard. The nXDS will still be readily available, and the previously available upgrade kit will remain as an aftermarket option to give customers the widest choice to suit their individual needs.

The nXDS-C dry scroll pump provides an alternative to oil sealed rotary vane pumps and other dry technologies. It is lubricant free and hermetically sealed so it provides a totally clean and dry vacuum to prevent cross contamination. Unlike other scroll pumps, the bearings are isolated by the bellows, so that any aggressive chemicals involved in the process will not attack them.

Paul Bolton, Product Manager, Edwards, commented, “Hermetic sealing via Edwards’ ‘bearing shield’ means no moving seals or shaft seals to leak or need purging, allowing the nXDS-C to be a truly “dry” pump with no lubricants of any kind in the pumped gas path. Unlike many competing scroll pumps which use a glued two piece tip-seal that is prone to attack, the nXDS-C pump features a single piece user serviceable tip-seal that allows it to handle a large variety of common laboratory solvent and dilute acid vapors. The pump can handle up to 280 grammes per hour of water vapor. It is entirely field serviceable with long time periods between service intervals.”

It is based on the technology of the well proven nXDS and XDS scroll vacuum pumps, and is ideal for use in wet chemical laboratories, freeze drying, rotary evaporation and distillation.