vacuubrand PC301 VARIO select Series User manual



PC 3010 VARIO select
PC 3016 VARIO select
PC 3012 VARIO select
PC 3012 VARIO select EKP

Original instructions EN-US 20901118



This manual is only to be used and distributed in its complete and original form. It is strictly the user's responsibility to
carefully check the validity of this manual with respect to the product.
Thank you for purchasing this product from VACUUBRANDGMBH+COKG. You have chosen a modern and techni-
cally high quality product.
Manufacturer:




Phone:
Switch-
board:
[phone]
Sales: [phone]
Service: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.vacuubrand.com
Imprint
2 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720

20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 3

  
1.1 User information............................................................. 5
1.2 Manual structure ............................................................ 6
1.3 Display conventions ....................................................... 7
1.4 Symbols and icons......................................................... 8
1.5 Instructions..................................................................... 9
1.6 Abbreviations .................................................................10
1.7 Term definitions..............................................................11
  
2.1 Usage.............................................................................12
2.1.1 Intended use..........................................................12
2.1.2 Improper use..........................................................13
2.1.3 Foreseeable misuse ..............................................13
2.2 Obligations .....................................................................14
2.3 Target group description ................................................15
2.4 General safety information.............................................16
2.5 Protective clothing..........................................................16
2.6 Safety precautions .........................................................16
2.7 Laboratory and working materials..................................17
2.8 Possible sources of danger............................................18
2.9 Motor protection .............................................................20
2.10 ATEX equipment category .............................................20
2.11 Disposal .........................................................................21
  
3.1 Schematic design of pumping unit series ......................22
3.2 Chemistry pumping unit series.......................................23
3.3 Condensers and chillers ................................................24
3.3.1 Separator/condenser at the inlet ...........................24
3.3.2 Condenser at the outlet .........................................24
3.4 Sample application.........................................................26
  
4.1 Transport........................................................................27
4.2 Installation......................................................................28
4.3 Controller base...............................................................30
4.4 Connection.....................................................................31
4.4.1 Vacuum connection (IN) ........................................31
4.4.2 Exhaust gas connection (EX) ................................33

4 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
4.4.3 Coolant connection at the condenser ....................33
4.4.4 Venting connection ................................................35
4.4.5 Gas ballast (GB) ....................................................36
4.5 Electrical connection ......................................................38
  
5.1 Switch on........................................................................40
5.2 Operation .......................................................................41
5.2.1 User interface ........................................................41
5.2.2 Operation...............................................................42
5.2.3 Operation with gas ballast .....................................43
5.3 Shutdown (switch off).....................................................44
5.4 Storage...........................................................................44
  
6.1 Technical support...........................................................46
6.2 Error – Cause – Remedy ...............................................46
  
7.1 Information on service work ...........................................49
7.2 Cleaning.........................................................................52
7.2.1 Housing surface.....................................................52
7.2.2 Empty the glass flask.............................................52
7.2.3 Clean or replace PTFE hoses................................53
7.3 Vacuum pump maintenance ..........................................53
7.3.1 Maintenance items.................................................53
7.3.2 Preparation ............................................................54
7.3.3 Suction/pressure distributor maintenance .............57
7.3.4 Replace diaphragms and valves ...........................60
  
8.1 Technical data................................................................77
8.2 Wetted materials ............................................................79
8.3 Rating plate....................................................................80
8.4 Ordering information ......................................................81
8.5 Service information ........................................................83
8.6 EU Declaration of Conformity.........................................84
 

About this document
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 5
 
This Instruction manual is part of the product you have pur-
chased.
This manual, in conjunction with the ® manual,
applies to all versions of the pumping unit and is intended in par-
ticular for laboratory staff.
 

Instructions for use
and safety
nRead this Instruction manual thoroughly before using the
product.
nKeep this Instruction manual in a readily accessible location.
nCorrect use of the product is essential for safe operation.
Comply with all safety information provided!
nIn addition to the information in this Instruction manual, ad-
here to the health and safety regulations applicable in the
country of use.

General information nIf passing the product on to a third party, also give them this
Instruction manual.
nThe illustrations in this manual are only intended to facilitate
comprehension.
nWe reserve the right to make technical changes in the
course of continuous product improvement.
nTo improve readability, the general term Pumping unit is
used as an equivalent to and instead of the product name
PC301xVARIOselectchemistry pumping unit.

Copyright ©The content of this Instruction manual is protected by copyright.
Only copies for internal use are allowed, e.g., for professional
training. ©

About this document
6 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720

Contact us nIf your Instruction manual is incomplete, you can request a
replacement. Alternatively, you can use our download portal:
www.vacuubrand.com
nYou are welcome to contact us at any time in writing or by
telephone if you would like more information, have questions
about our products or wish to share feedback with us.
nWhen contacting our Service Department, please have the
serial number and product type at hand -> see the rating
plate on the product.
 
Breakdown of in-
structions
The manual has a modular structure with separate individual in-
struction modules for the pumping unit, controller, and any ac-
cessories.

Pumping unit series
and modular manu-
als
Description Safety information for vacuum equipment
Description: Vacuum controller — control and operation
Description: Pumping unit – connection, operation, maintenance, me-
chanics
Optional description: Accessories

About this document
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 7
 

Display of warning
levels 

Disregarding the situation could result in extremely seri-
ous injury or death.
ØTake appropriate action to avoid dangerous situa-
tions!


Disregarding the situation could result in serious injury
or death.
ØTake appropriate action to avoid dangerous situa-
tions!


Disregarding the situation could result in minor injury or
damage to property.
ØTake appropriate action to avoid dangerous situa-
tions!
NOTICE

Disregarding the situation could result in damage to property.

Display of informa-
tion and tips 
ðTips and tricks
ðHelpful functions or actions

About this document
8 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
 
This manual uses symbols and icons. Safety symbols indicate
specific risks associated with handling the product. Symbols and
icons are designed to help you identify risks more easily.

Explanation
of safety symbols General danger sign. Danger: electricity.
Danger: hot surface. Danger: potentially explosive
material.
Electrostatically sensitive
components ESD.
General, mandatory sign. Disconnect power plug.

Additional symbols Positive example – 
Result– 
Negative example –

Refers to content in this In-
struction manual.
Refers to content of addi-
tional documents.
Ensure sufficient air circula-
tion.
Electric/electronic devices and batteries must not be dis-
posed of in the domestic waste at the end of their service
life.
Flow arrow, inlet – vacuum connection
Flow arrow, outlet – -exhaust gas

About this document
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 9
 

Instructions ðPerform the step described.
RResult of action

1. First step
2. Next step
RResult of action
Carry out instructions requiring multiple steps in the order de-
scribed.

->Example
Schematic diagram
operating steps
shown in pictures
1. First step. 2. Next step.
RIntermediate result or
result of step

About this document
10 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
 
Abbreviations used  not greater than
 Absolute
 Separator flask
 Atmospheric pressure (bar graph, program)
 Interior diameter
 Nominal diameter
 Vapor condenser
 Peltronic® or EK¬ Peltronic® vapor condenser
1Outlet (exhaust, exit), exhaust gas connection
ATEX equipment labeling
 Fluoroelastomer
 ---
 Gas ballast
--- ---
 Size
 Inlet condenser
1Inlet, vacuum connection
 Small flange
 Maximum value
 Minimum value
 Without vapor condenser
 Polyamide
 Polybutylene terephthalate
 Chemistry pumping unit with type identification number
 Polyethylene
 Return Merchandise Authorization number
 ---
 Wrench size (tool)
 Dry ice condenser
 Responsible
 For example
1 Labeling on vacuum pump or component, see also product specific abbreviations un-
der: g Chemistry pumping unit series onpage23

About this document
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 11
 
Product specific
terms  Glass flask/separator mounted at the inlet or outlet.

2
Cooling condenser with receiving flask mounted at
the outlet (pressure side).
 Pressure measuring range in vacuum technology,
from: 1mbar–0.001mbar (0.75Torr–0.00075Torr)
 Pressure measuring range in vacuum technology,
from: atmospheric pressure–1mbar (atmospheric
pressure–0.75Torr)
2Cooling condenser with receiving flask mounted at
the inlet (vacuum side).


Vacuum pumping unit with variable speed motor for
precise vacuum control with VACUU·SELECT® con-
troller and VACUU·SELECT®sensor.
®Electronic chiller with Peltier elements mounted at the
outlet (pressure side); condenses solvent vapors
without external coolant.

2
Cooling condenser mounted at the outlet (pressure
side) with receiving flask and dry ice as coolant.
®Bus system from VACUUBRAND for communication
of peripheral devices with VACUU·BUS®-enabled
gauges and controllers.
®

Address which enables the VACUU·BUS® client to be
unambiguously assigned within the bus system,
e.g.,for connecting multiple sensors with the same
measuring range.
®

Peripheral device or component with VACUU·BUS®
port which is integrated in the bus system, e.g.,sen-
sors, valves, level indicators, etc.
®

4-pin round connector for the bus system from VACU-
UBRAND.
®

Assigning a different VACUU·BUS® address to a
VACUU·BUS® component using a gauge or con-
troller.
®Vacuum controller, controller with touchscreen; con-
sisting of operating panel and vacuum sensor.
®

Vacuum sensor with integral venting valve.
® Speed control for vacuum pump; the motor runs only
as fast as necessary to meet demand.
2 only suitable for vapor condensation.

Safety information
12 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
 
The information in this chapter must be observed by everyone
who works with the product described here.
The safety information applies to the entire life cycle of the
equipment.
 
Only use the product if it is in perfect working condition.
 
Intended use A chemistry pumping unit of product series PC 301x VARIO se-
lectis a vacuum system consisting of a vacuum pump, con-
troller, vacuum sensor and separator for generating and control-
ling a rough vacuum in designated systems.
Attached chillers (vapor condenser, inlet condenser, dry ice
chiller, Peltronic® vapor condenser), including separators and
flasks, are exclusively intended for vapor condensation.
Examples of use: Evacuating distillation equipment, rotary evap-
oration, systems with VACUU·LAN local area vacuum network,
vacuum drying.
The vacuum system may only be used indoors in a dry, non-ex-
plosive atmosphere.

nobserving the information in the document Safety informa-
tion forvacuum equipment,
nobserving the manual,
nobserving the manual of connected components,
nobserving the inspection and maintenance intervals and hav-
ing maintenance performed by appropriately qualified per-
sonnel,
nusing only approved accessories or spare parts.
Any other use is considered improper use.

Safety information
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 13
 
Improper use Incorrect use or any application which does not correspond to
the technical data may result in injury or damage to property.

nusing the product contrary to its intended use,
noperation under inadmissible environmental and operating
conditions,
noperation despite obvious errors or defective safety devices,
nunauthorized extensions or conversions, in particular when
these impair safety,
nusage despite incomplete assembly,
noperation with sharp-edged objects,
npulling plug-in connections on the cable out of the socket,
naspirating, conveying, or compressing solids or fluids.
 
Misuse In addition to improper use, there are types of use which are
prohibited when handling the device.

nuse on humans or animals,
ninstallation and operation in potentially explosive atmos-
pheres,
nuse in mines or underground,
nusing the product to generate pressure,
nfully exposing vacuum equipment to the vacuum,
nimmersing vacuum equipment in liquids, or exposing it to
water spray or steam jets,
npumping oxidizing and pyrophoric substances, liquids or
solids,
npumping hot, unstable, or explosive media,
npumping substances which may react explosively under im-
pact and/or elevated temperature without an air supply.
No foreign bodies, hot gases or flames from the appli-
cation must be allowed to enter the equipment.

Safety information
14 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
 

Operator obliga-
tions
The owner defines the responsibilities and ensures that only
trained personnel or specialists work on the vacuum system.
This applies in particular to connection, installation and mainte-
nance work and troubleshooting.
Users in the areas of competence set out in the g Target
group description on page 15 must possess the relevant
qualifications for the activities listed. In particular work on electri-
cal equipment must be performed only by qualified electricians.

Personnel obliga-
tions
In the case of activities which require protective clothing, per-
sonal protective equipment as specified by the operator is to be
worn.
If the vacuum system is not in proper working order, it must be
prevented from being accidentally switched back on.
ðAlways be conscious of safety and work in a safe manner.
ðObserve instructions issued by the operator, and national
regulations on accident prevention and industrial safety.



Safety information
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 15
 
Target groups The manual must be read and observed by every person who is
tasked with the activities described below.

Qualification de-
scription  Laboratory staff, such as chemists, laboratory techni-
cians
 Person with professional qualification in mechanics,
electrical equipment or laboratory devices


Specialist with additional specialist, departmental or
area responsibility

Responsibility ma-
trix    

Installation   
Commissioning   
Network integration 
Operation   
Error report   
Remedy (x)  
Maintenance  
Repair3 
Repair order 
Cleaning, simple   
Empty the separator   
Shutdown   
Decontamination4 
3 see also Homepage: VACUUBRAND > Support > Instructions for repair
4 Alternatively, arrange for decontamination by a qualified service provider.

Safety information
16 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
 
Quality standards
and safety
Products from  are subject to
stringent quality testing with regard to safety and operation.
Each product undergoes a comprehensive test program prior to
delivery.
Observe the instructions for all actions as specified in this man-
ual.
 
No special protective clothing is required to operate the vacuum
pump. Observe instructions issued by the operator for your
workplace.
During cleaning, maintenance and repair work, we recommend
wearing chemical-resistant protective gloves, protective clothing
and protective goggles.
ðWhen handling chemicals, wear your personal protective
equipment.
 
Safety precautions ðUse your vacuum equipment only if you have understood its
function and this manual.
ðReplace defective parts immediately, e.g., a broken power
cord, faulty hoses or faulty flasks.
ðUse only original accessories and components which are
designed for the vacuum technology, such as a vacuum
hose, separator, vacuum valve, etc.
ðWhen handling contaminated parts, follow the relevant reg-
ulations and protective measures; this also applies to equip-
ment sent in for repair.
 Prior to returning any product to our Service Depart-
ment for repair, contamination from hazardous substances
needs to be excluded. Therefore, send us the carefully com-
pleted and signed Health and Safety Clearance certificate be-
fore sending your product for repair.

Safety information
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 17
 



During aspiration, hazardous, toxic substances at the
outlet can get into the ambient air.
ØObserve the relevant safety regulations for safe han-
dling of hazardous substances.
ØPlease note that residual process media may pose a
danger to people and the environment.
ØInstall and use suitable separators, filters or extrac-
tion devices.

Pumping different
substances
Pumping different substances or media can cause the sub-
stances to react with one another.
Working materials which get into the vacuum pump with the gas
flow can damage the vacuum pump. Hazardous substances can
be deposited in the vacuum pump.

Protective mea-
sures, depending
on application
ðPurge the vacuum pump with inert gas or air before chang-
ing the medium to be pumped.
ðUse inert gas to dilute critical mixtures.
ðPrevent the release of hazardous, toxic, explosive, corro-
sive fluids, gases or vapors or those that are harmful to
health or the environment, for example, through suitable
laboratory facilities with a fume hood and ventilation control.
ðProtect the inside of the vacuum pump from deposits or
moisture, e. g, through the provision of a gas ballast.
ðBe aware of interactions and possible chemical reactions of
the pumped media.
ðCheck the compatibility of the pumped substances with the
wetted materials of the pumping unit.
ðContact us if you have concerns about using your vacuum
pump with certain working materials or media.

Safety information
18 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720

Observe vacuum
pump design
Particles, liquids and dust must not get inside the vacuum pump.
ðDo not pump any substances which could form deposits in-
side the vacuum pump.
ðInstall suitable separators and/or filters upstream of the in-
let. Suitable filters are chemical-resistant, clog-proof and
have a reliable flow rate, forexample.
ðReplace porous vacuum hoses without delay.
 

Note mechanical
load capacity
The high compression ratio of the pump may result in a higher
pressure at the outlet than the mechanical stability of the system
allows.
ðAlways ensure that the outlet line is clear and non-pressur-
ized. The outlet must not be blocked to ensure that gases
can exit freely.
ðPrevent uncontrolled overpressure, e. g, due to a locked or
blocked piping system, condensate or clogged outlet line.
ðAt the gas connections, the connections for the inlet IN and
outlet EX must not be mixed up.
ðBe aware of the max.pressures at the inlet and outlet of the
pump as well as the max. admissible differential pressure
between the inlet and outlet, according to the technical
data.
ðThe system to be evacuated as well as all hose connections
must be mechanically stable.
ðFix coolant hoses to the hose nozzles such that they cannot
inadvertently become loose.

Prevent backup in
the outlet line
Condensate can damage the pump head. Condensate must not
flow back into the outlet and pump head through the hose line.
Liquid must not accumulate inside the exhaust gas hose.
ðAvoid condensate return by using a separator. Condensate
must not enter the inside of the housing via the hose lines.
ðPreferably route the exhaust gas hose with a fall from the
outlet, i.e.,running downward so that no backup can form.

Safety information
20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720 19
ðIncorrect measurements due to a blocked vacuum line, e.g.,
condensate in the vacuum line, can distort the measure-
ments taken by the vacuum sensor.
ðAvoid overpressure in the suction line (>/1060mbar
[>/795Torr]).

Observe hazards
during venting
Depending on the application, explosive mixtures can form or
other hazardous situations can arise in systems.

Possible residual
energy
After the vacuum pump has been switched off and disconnected
from the power supply, there may still be dangers due to resid-
ual energy:
nThermal energy: motor waste heat, hot surface, compres-
sion heat.
nElectrical energy: the installed capacitors have a discharge
time of up to 3minutes.
Before any action:
ðAllow the vacuum pump to cool down.
ðWait until the capacitors have discharged.

Surface tempera-
tures
The surface of vacuum pumps can reach temperatures >70°C
during operation, in particular when pumping out heated media.
ðAvoid direct contact with the surface.
ðUse protection against accidental contact if the surface tem-
perature is regularly elevated.
ðAllow the vacuum pump to cool down before performing
maintenance work.
Overheating The vacuum pump can be damaged due to overheating. Possi-
ble causes include insufficient air supply to the fan and/or failure
to maintain minimum distances.
ðWhen installing the device, ensure that there is a minimum
distance of 5cm between the fan and adjacent parts (such
as the housing, walls, etc.).
ðAlways ensure a sufficient air supply; if applicable, provide
external forced ventilation.

Safety information
20 20901118_EN-US_PC301x VARIO select Serie_V1.3_100720
ðPlace the device on a stable surface. A soft surface such as
a foam rubber sound absorber can impair and block the air
supply.
ðClean polluted ventilation slots.
ðRemove the cover used as transport protection from the de-
vice before operating it.
ðAvoid excessive heat input due to hot process gases.
ðObserve the maximum permissible media temperature ac-
cording to the technical data.

Labels and signs Keep any signs affixed to the device in an easily readable condi-
tion:
ðConnection labels
ðWarning and information signs
ðMotor data and rating plates
 
Overheating protec-
tion, blockage pro-
tection
The pump motor has a temperature sensor on the circuit board
as overload protection. In the event of excessive temperature or
if the motor is blocked, the vacuum pump switches off.
Procedure for
switching back on
If the vacuum pump is switched off due to these safety precau-
tions, the error must be cleared manually: Disconnect pumping
unit from power supply -> Eliminate cause of error -> Restart
pumping unit.
 




The user is responsible for assessing the risks posed by the
equipment in such a way that any safety measures necessary
for installation and safe operation can be implemented.
ATEX approval only applies to the internal, wetted parts of the of
of the device, not to its surroundings.