What to choose (one-look matrix)

PumpUltimate vacuumSolvent toleranceMaintenanceTypical fit
Rotary Vane (oiled)1e-2–1e-3 mbarPoor without trapsOil changes, mist filterCost-sensitive labs with low solvent load
Dry Diaphragm1–10 mbarBest with corrosives/VOCsDiaphragm/valve kitsOrganic/acidic vapors, teaching/R&D
Oil-free Scroll1e-2–1e-3 mbarModerate (use traps)Tip seals/greaseClean labs, fast cycles, low solvent

Reality check: If you smell solvent, you need a trap—no matter which pump you pick.

Selection rules (no fluff)

  1. Load type wins: heavy VOCs/corrosives → diaphragm; clean/air → scroll; budget → rotary vane + traps.
  2. Cycle speed target: small chamber (5–10 L) should reach ≤10 mbar in 30–60 s; large (30–50 L) 60–120 s.
  3. Upkeep tolerance: hate oil & fumes? avoid rotary vane. Need deepest vacuum on a budget? vane + good procedure still works.

Three-cycle evacuation that actually works

  1. Load & seal → Evac to ≤10 mbar, hold 10–20 s → Backfill with box gas.
  2. Repeat 3×.
  3. Equalize to chamber pressure → open inner door.
    (Add a cold/charcoal trap if transferring solvent-rich parts.)

Minimal setup checklist

  • Trap: cold (−20 to −80 °C) and/or activated carbon before pump.
  • Lines: short, straight, solvent-rated (PTFE/Viton).
  • Gauges: absolute vacuum gauge on the load-lock.
  • Protection: check valve/vent to prevent backstreaming (vane pumps).

Fast troubleshooting

  • Can’t reach ≤10 mbar → leak, iced/blocked trap, worn diaphragms/seals → leak test, defrost/replace media, service pump.
  • Pressure rebounds after evac → door/O-ring not sealing → clean seats, re-torque in a star pattern.
  • Pump smells / oil mist (vane) → trap missing/failed → install/replace trap, change oil, check anti-backstreaming.

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