KNF diaphragm gas pumps transfer or compress gases and vapors and generate vacuum without contaminating t...
Pump Motor Parameterization Drives KNF, KNESTEL Partnership
KNESTEL, a leader in electronics and analysis technology, partners with KNF to create top quality gas analyzers and laser spectroscopy equipment.
For more than 40 years, KNESTEL Technologie & Elektronik GmbH has been developing custom electronic and mechatronic solutions for a variety of applications, including laser spectroscopy and gas analysis. Their products are internationally renowned for their performance and quality. KNESTEL needed a pump capable of meeting the stringent requirements of their equipment. KNF’s custom designed, fully parameterizable diaphragm pumps with BLDC motors were up to the challenge.
Laser Absorption Spectroscopy: A Complex Process
Laser absorption spectroscopy is an advanced method for determining the concentration of a specific gas. The process involves using laser diodes, of varying wavelengths depending on the media being analyzed, to examine gas samples. Evaluating the intensity of transmitted and incidental light allows users to determine the concentration of the gas in question. KNESTEL is a worldwide leader in laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLS/LAS) equipment, offering a variety of gas analysis solutions that rely on this technology.
Laser absorption spectroscopy offers numerous advantages over other gas analysis technologies. It has faster reaction than other methods and typically performs more efficiently. Laser spectroscopy equipment typically relies on pressure and temperature stabilized analysis chambers operated in a vacuum, guarding against condensation. Many of these systems require diaphragm pump technology to perform optimally.
The Problem: Lack of Adjustable Parameterization Options
With such a complex process involving many different gasses, KNESTEL needed the perfect pump for their laser absorption spectroscopy systems. The application requires a pump with high gas flow and vacuum up to 100 mbar (abs.). This allows for fast response times and keeps absorption to a minimum. Leak-tightness is also important, as it prevents sample contamination and the loss of media. While KNESTEL found a handful of pumps that meet these requirements, they lacked the speed control options required of their laser absorption spectroscopy systems.
“Having adjustable flow is important for LAS systems to function ideally,” Robin Mann, Product Manager at KNESTEL, said. “We had some options that could provide the flow and vacuum required. But we were struggling to find a pump that could provide the adjustability we needed.”
The Solution: KNF N 952 with BLDC Motor
The KNF N 952 diaphragm gas pump was up to the task. With its maximum flow rate of 36 l/min and an ultimate vacuum down to 1.5 mbar (abs.). It is available with a variety of chemical and temperature resistant pump material options, offers maintenance-free operation and contamination-free media transfer. The N 952 is available with a state-of-the-art, parameterizable brushless DC motor, allowing for precise speed control in a wide RPM range. This allows for adjustable media flow, a requirement for KNESTEL’s gas analysis equipment.
“KNF pumps were able to provide us with the maximum flow and vacuum we needed, while also providing the adjustable flow other pumps could not provide.” Mann said. “The ability to electronically control pump speed and constantly monitor the systems are a critical differentiator for us. KNF pumps allow us to build a superior system to our competitors.”
The Advantages of BLDC Technology
KNF’s BLDC motors provide a variety of advantages over more basic options. These motors allow for digital customization and detailed parameterization of speed range and ramp, making them easily adaptable for multiple requirements. BLDC motors offer outstanding durability, with more than 20,000 lifetime hours. They are lightweight and compact, allowing them to fit into a variety of systems.
Get in Touch with KNF for Customized Pump Solutions
BLDC motors and their parameterization options were a key factor in KNF and KNESTEL’s partnership. KNF has decades of experience collaborating with world-leading partners in a variety of industries. Our experts work closely with engineers to create tailor-made solutions required of multiple applications.