Vacuum Pumps

[Ron Klug]

Has anyone had experience using and maintaining Edwards XDS dry scroll pumps? I need to refurbish our existing pumps on Shimadzu QP5000 GC-MS and MicroMass LCT LC-MS systems and have funds to replace if the dry scroll pumps are a (much) better option.
Thanks for your input.

[jusuom]

We use Edwards XDS 35i pump with our Quattro Premier. I think that the best thing is that there is no need to change oil and there are no oil fumes.

The pump seals have to be changed (at least) once a year, and this operation takes about an hour, if/when there is also need to clean away the black "dust" originating from the old seal (btw, don't be surprised if also the exhaust line turns black because of the dust). The seals cost approx. 200-300 €.

The pump has worked very nicely for the 2.5 years we have had it (it had been in use for a while before we received it) - though doesn't seem to be more silent than the oil pumps.

XDS 35i might be too efficient for GC-MS, but I think there are also smaller dry scroll pumps available.

[Ron Klug]

Jukka,
Thank you for your recommendation. I think getting oil free will be worth the yearly cost for the seal kit.
Ron