Pfaff Vacuum Expands OktaLine ATEX Series of Explosion-Proof Roots Pumps

For the evacuation of processes or explosive gases in potentially explosive atmospheres, Pfaff Vacuum, the world's leading supplier of vacuum technology, has launched and upgraded its range of magnetically coupled Roots pumps for rough and medium vacuum.

and upgraded magnetically coupled Roots pumps for rough and medium vacuum, which comply with the European ATEX explosion protection directive (2014/34/EU1 or 1999/92/EG).

They are resistant to pressure fluctuations up to PN 16 and fulfil the requirements for the highest level of explosion protection.

This series of Roots pumps excludes the entrapment of explosive gases in the area and extends the field of application further from the chemical, biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries to industrial applications such as vacuum furnaces or heat treatment.

The extended range of pumping speeds of the explosion-protected Roots pumps extends from 280 to 8.100 m3/h, depending on the application.

Depending on the application, customers can choose between equipment categories 2G and 3G. All pumps are suitable for temperature class T3 and can be installed without additional flame arrestors, guaranteeing the effectiveness of the entire pumping speed range.

In addition, the high reliability and low long-term operating costs of the OktaLine Roots pumps not only help to reduce operating costs by around 20 per cent, but also significantly reduce maintenance costs.

Variable differential pressure and variable speed promote application flexibility, and all pumps can be used in ambient temperatures from -20 °C to +40 °C. The pumps are available with a standardised magnetic coupling.

With the standardised magnetic coupling, OktaLine Roots pumps are able to achieve a minimum leakage rate of 10-6 Pa m3/s and a resistance to pressure shocks of up to 1600 kPa.

The magnetic coupling eliminates the need for shaft seals and solves the problems of pressure shocks, process contamination and the need for frequent maintenance.

Vibration measurement options further enhance operational safety. In addition, the magnetic coupling prevents zone entrainment and the integrated temperature sensor prevents thermal overload.

This monitors the gas temperature in the outlet area, guaranteeing a safer operating process.

OktaLine Roots pumps can be operated without bypass and are ATEX-protected even when rotating passively.

By using IEC-compliant ATEX motors, customers can make field replacements for easy local maintenance.