IKA VACSTAR lite Advanced Solution – Diaphragm Vacuum Pump with Integrated Control
IKA’s VACSTAR lite Advanced Solution combines the VACSTAR lite diaphragm vacuum pump with the VC 10 pro vacuum controller into a coordinated package. The key difference from simpler vacuum pumps: Automatic boiling point detection is based on an integrated solvent library. This means the pump detects the boiling point of the solvent being used and maintains it without manual intervention. For those who regularly work with different solvents in the lab, this saves time and prevents pressure errors caused by incorrect setpoints.
Vacuum Control and Operating Modes for Rotary Evaporators and Filtration
The VC 10 pro vacuum controller offers four operating modes: Automatic, Manual, Pump %, and Program. In Program mode, multiple ramp steps can be programmed sequentially—useful for drying or distillation processes with stepped pressure profiles. The two-point control and the analog speed-vacuum control utilize the integrated ceramic sensor (Al₂O₃), which measures pressures from 1 to 1100 mbar with a resolution of 1 mbar. The TFT display shows values in mbar, hPa, mmHg, or Torr. For typical laboratory applications such as rotary evaporators, filtration, or drying in a temperature-controlled cabinet, the pump covers the relevant pressure range with a ultimate pressure of 9 mbar.
Connections, Interfaces, and Operation
The suction and discharge sides each have a connection diameter of 8 mm. The pump operates on 100–240 V and 50/60 Hz, making it suitable for use worldwide. The pump can be connected to laboratory software via USB-C and RS-232. Analog inputs and outputs enable integration into existing control environments. A PT1000 connection for external temperature sensors extends the measurement chain to include temperature data in the range of -10 to 200 °C. The built-in timer allows for run times ranging from 1 second to 6,000 minutes. However, if you wish to control multiple pumps centrally via a network, there is no Ethernet interface—a separate network device is required for this purpose.
Materials, Protection Rating, and Package Contents
All parts in contact with the product are made of PTFE, FFPM, PPS, and NBR—materials that are resistant to a wide range of common laboratory solvents. The housing, made of coated cast aluminum and thermoplastic, is rated IP 20, meaning it is designed for dry indoor environments without protection against splashing water. The noise level is 54 dB(A) at minimum pressure. If you want to capture solvent vapors from the exhaust gas, you can retrofit the VSE 1 vacuum safety emission condenser separately—it is not included in the scope of delivery. The package includes: VACSTAR lite pump, VC 10 pro vacuum controller, VC 10,600, and tripod pole. If you only need the pump without the controller, you should check the individual components, as the package is designed for combined operation.
Technical Specifications
- Max. pumping speed (50/60 Hz): 1 m³/h / 16.67 l/min
- Final pressure: 9 mbar
- Stages: 2
- Cylinders: 2
- Suction/discharge port diameter: 8 mm
- Inlet pressure: 10–1030 mbar
- Speed range: 285–1,100 rpm
- Rated speed: 1,100 rpm
- Vacuum sensor type: Al₂O₃ ceramic
- Measuring range (absolute): 1–1,100 mbar
- Control range: 1–1,100 mbar
- Resolution: 1 mbar
- Measurement uncertainty: 1 mbar
- Temperature measurement range (external PT1000): -10–200 °C
- Timer: 1 s to 6000 min
- Noise level at minimum pressure: 54 dB(A)
- Interfaces: USB-C, RS-232, analog input/output
- External temperature sensor connection: PT1000
- Pressure units: mbar, hPa, mmHg, Torr
- Materials in contact with the product: PTFE, FFPM, PPS, NBR
- Housing: Coated cast aluminum / thermoplastic
- Protection rating: IP 20
- Voltage: 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz
- Power consumption: 144 W / Standby 3.5 W
- Fuse: 2x T4A 250 V
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 115 x 445 x 280 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
- Ambient temperature: 5–40 °C
- Protection rating: IP 20
- Included in delivery: VACSTAR lite, VC 10 pro, VC 10.600, tripod pole
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the VACSTAR lite and the VACSTAR lite Advanced Solution Package?
The Advanced Solution Package also includes the VC 10 pro vacuum controller, the VC 10.600, and a tripod pole. The VC 10 pro is required to enable automatic boiling point detection, program mode with ramp steps, and cooler control.
Which solvents are supported by the solvent library?
The library contains preconfigured parameters for common laboratory solvents. For a list of the specific solvents included, refer to the VC 10 pro documentation—the library cannot be freely expanded and is not limited to specific substance classes according to the product data.
Can the pump be operated without the VC 10 pro?
The VACSTAR lite is designed as a standalone pump, but the control functions—boiling point detection, program mode, and condenser control—are tied to the VC 10 pro. Without the controller, these functions are completely unavailable.
How is the pump integrated into laboratory software?
The unit can be connected to lab software via USB-C and RS-232. Additionally, an analog input and an analog output are available for integration into existing control environments.
Is there a vacuum leak test?
Yes, a vacuum leak test is built in. This allows you to check the tightness of the connected system before starting a process—useful for sensitive separation processes where a leaky system can lead to measurement errors or loss of substance.
