
( Brand: Leybold ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 85318 ), ( Type: Stainless Steel Turbovac Vacuum Pump )
The **Leybold 85318 1177350041 Steel Turbovac Vacuum Pump** represents a cutting-edge solution for high-performance vacuum applications, engineered to deliver exceptional efficiency, reliability, and precision in environments where superior pumping speed and ultimate vacuum levels are critical. Part of Leybold s renowned Turbovac series, this robust oil-sealed turbomolecular pump is designed to excel in a wide range of scientific, industrial, and manufacturing processes, including semiconductor fabrication, thin-film deposition, electron microscopy, and high-vacuum research. Constructed from high-grade **AISI 304 stainless steel**, the pump s housing and internal components are built to withstand demanding operational conditions, offering corrosion resistance, durability, and long-term stability even in corrosive or chemically aggressive atmospheres. The **steel construction** not only enhances structural integrity but also ensures compatibility with stringent cleanroom standards, making it an ideal choice for applications where contamination control is paramount.
At the heart of the Turbovac 85318 lies a **high-speed turbomolecular rotor assembly**, featuring precision-machined ceramic or metal blades that operate at speeds exceeding **10,000 RPM**, enabling rapid gas molecule transfer from the roughing stage to the fore-vacuum system. This design minimizes backstreaming of oil vapors while maximizing pumping speed achieving an impressive **ultimate vacuum of up to 1 10 mbar (1 10 Torr)** making it suitable for applications requiring ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions. The pump s **oil-sealed architecture** ensures smooth operation and extended service life, as the lubricating oil within the rotor bearings is contained and protected from external contamination, reducing maintenance requirements and downtime. Additionally, the **integrated oil circulation system** with a dedicated oil reservoir and cooling mechanism optimizes thermal management, preventing overheating and prolonging the lifespan of both the pump and the lubricant.
Leybold s advanced **digital control interface** enhances usability by providing real-time monitoring of critical parameters such as vacuum level, rotor speed, oil temperature, and system status via a user-friendly display or compatible software integration. This level of control allows operators to fine-tune performance, diagnose potential issues early, and ensure consistent operation across diverse applications. The pump s **modular design** further adds to its versatility, as it can be easily integrated into existing vacuum systems or paired with Leybold s complementary components, such as roughing pumps, valves, and controllers, to create a fully customized vacuum solution. Whether deployed in a research laboratory, semiconductor wafer fabrication plant, or advanced manufacturing facility, the **Leybold 85318 1177350041 Steel Turbovac** delivers unmatched performance, reliability, and precision, setting a new standard for high-vacuum technology.
The Leybold 85318 (1177350041) is a steel turbovac vacuum pump, typically used in scientific, industrial, and laboratory applications for achieving high vacuum levels. Below is a detailed analysis of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros**
1. **High Performance and Efficiency**
The turbovac series is known for delivering excellent ultimate vacuum levels, often reaching pressures below 1 10 mbar (1 10 Torr) when properly maintained. This makes it suitable for applications requiring ultra-high vacuum (UHV) environments, such as semiconductor manufacturing, surface science, or thin-film deposition.
2. **Reliability and Durability**
Leybold is a well-established brand with a reputation for building robust vacuum systems. The steel construction of this turbovac pump is designed to withstand harsh conditions, including exposure to corrosive gases or high temperatures, depending on the model and configuration. The use of high-quality materials reduces the risk of mechanical failure over time.
3. **Low Noise Operation**
Turbomolecular pumps like the Leybold 85318 operate quietly compared to other high-vacuum pumps (e.g., diffusion pumps). This is advantageous in laboratory settings where noise reduction is important for sensitive experiments or operator comfort.
4. **Fast Pumping Speed**
The turbovac series is designed for rapid evacuation, which is critical in applications requiring quick cycle times, such as in semiconductor wafer processing or research laboratories. The pumping speed can reach several hundred liters per second, depending on the specific configuration.
5. **Compatibility with Various Gases**
Unlike some other vacuum pumps, turbomolecular pumps can handle a wide range of gases, including inert gases like argon or helium, as well as reactive gases (though precautions may be needed for highly corrosive gases). This versatility makes it suitable for diverse applications.
6. **No Moving Parts in the High-Vacuum Region**
The pump s design eliminates the need for oil or other fluids in the high-vacuum region, reducing contamination risks. This is particularly important in applications where cleanliness is paramount, such as in semiconductor fabrication or materials research.
7. **Long Lifespan with Proper Maintenance**
With regular maintenance, including bearing lubrication and rotor balancing, these pumps can last for many years. Leybold provides support and spare parts, which can extend the pump s operational life.
8. **Integration with Forepumps**
The turbovac pump is typically paired with a roughing pump (e.g., a scroll pump or rotary vane pump) to achieve the initial evacuation. Leybold offers compatible forepumps, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.
9. **Environmentally Friendly**
Unlike oil-sealed pumps, turbomolecular pumps do not require oil changes or discharge oil into the environment. This makes them a more eco-friendly option for sustainable laboratory practices.
10. **Precision Engineering**
Leybold s pumps are precision-engineered, with tight tolerances in the rotor-stator assembly to ensure efficient gas transfer and minimal leakage. This precision contributes to the pump s overall reliability and performance.
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### **Cons**
1. **High Initial Cost**
The Leybold 85318 is a premium product, and its purchase price is significantly higher than that of alternative vacuum pumps, such as rotary vane pumps or some diaphragm pumps. The cost can be a barrier for small laboratories or startups with limited budgets.
2. **Complex Installation and Maintenance**
Turbomolecular pumps require careful installation, including proper alignment, grounding, and connection to a forepump. Maintenance tasks, such as bearing replacement or rotor balancing, require specialized knowledge and tools. This can increase operational costs if in-house expertise is lacking.
3. **Sensitivity to Contamination**
While turbomolecular pumps do not use oil in the high-vacuum region, they are sensitive to particulate contamination (e.g., dust, debris, or vapor). Accidental exposure to contaminants can damage the rotor or stator, leading to reduced performance or failure. This requires careful handling and possibly additional filtration systems.
4. **Dependence on Forepump Performance**
The turbovac pump s effectiveness is directly tied to the performance of its forepump. If the forepump fails or operates inefficiently, the turbomolecular pump may not achieve its full potential vacuum level. This adds another layer of complexity to the system.
5. **Power Consumption**
Turbomolecular pumps consume more electrical power than some alternative pumps (e.g., scroll pumps or diaphragm pumps). For large-scale installations or applications with energy constraints, this can be a drawback.
6. **Limited Self-Starting Capability**
Unlike some other pumps, turbomolecular pumps cannot start from atmospheric pressure without a forepump. This requires an additional roughing pump, adding to the system s complexity and cost.
7. **Noise from Forepump**
While the turbomolecular pump itself is quiet, the associated forepump (e.g., a rotary vane pump) can generate significant noise. This may not be ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
8. **Potential for Vibration**
Improper installation or wear over time can lead to vibration in the turbomolecular pump, which may affect the performance of sensitive equipment (e.g., mass spectrometers or electron microscopes). Vibration isolation may be required in some cases.
9. **Spare Parts and Repairs**
While Leybold offers support, spare parts for older or less common models can be expensive or difficult to source. This may lead to downtime if a critical component fails and cannot be quickly replaced.
10. **Learning Curve for Operation**
Operating a turbomolecular pump effectively requires training to understand parameters like backing pressure, rotor speed, and gas load. Misuse can lead to reduced lifespan or damage to the pump.
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### **Conclusion**
The Leybold 85318 (1177350041) turbovac vacuum pump is a high-performance, reliable, and versatile tool for applications requiring ultra-high vacuum. Its strengths lie in its precision engineering, low contamination risk, fast pumping speed, and compatibility with a wide range of gases. However, its high cost, complex installation and maintenance requirements, and sensitivity to contamination must be carefully considered. The pump is best suited for professional environments where the investment can be justified by its performance and longevity, such as research laboratories, semiconductor manufacturing facilities, or industrial applications demanding high vacuum levels.
For users with limited budgets or simpler vacuum requirements, alternative pumps like scroll pumps or diaphragm pumps may offer a more cost-effective solution. Conversely, for applications where UHV is critical and budget is not a constraint, the Leybold turbovac pump is an excellent choice.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Leybold 85318 if:**- You require ultra-high vacuum levels for scientific research, semiconductor processing, or thin-film deposition.
- Your budget can accommodate the higher initial cost and potential maintenance expenses.
- You have access to trained personnel or are willing to invest in training for proper installation, operation, and maintenance.
- Your application cannot tolerate contamination or requires low noise and vibration levels.
- You plan to use the pump for long-term, high-reliability applications where its durability and performance justify the investment.
**Avoid or consider alternatives if:**- Your budget is constrained, and you can achieve acceptable vacuum levels with a lower-cost pump (e.g., a scroll pump or turbomolecular pump from a different manufacturer).
- Your application does not require UHV, and a simpler pump (e.g., a rotary vane pump or diaphragm pump) would suffice.
- You lack the expertise or resources to properly install, maintain, and troubleshoot the turbomolecular pump.
- Your environment is prone to contamination, and additional safeguards (e.g., filtration systems) would be required to protect the pump.
In summary, the Leybold 85318 is a superior choice for demanding vacuum applications but is not necessary for less stringent requirements. Always evaluate your specific needs and resources before making a purchase.
0-115259-SS-GX. This item is being sold as is, pictured. Leybold 85318 Stainless Steel Turbovac Vacuum Pump. Shipping Services.