Laboratory vacuum pumps are widely used in the biological and life science for lyophilization (freeze drying), filtration, distillation, and more. Even though all vacuum pumps share the common function of suctioning, there are numerous considerations when selecting a pump, as they can differ in design depending on intended application.
Oil Free Vacuum Pumps
These pumps use a dry lubricant in place of oil and include diaphragm and scroll pumps. These pumps are best suited for extraction and membrane filtration and lack the level of power some other pumps have. However, they are often relatively low maintenance and even portable.
Rotary Vane Vacuum Pumps
These pumps are perfect for applications that require a stronger and more consistent vacuum source such as lyophilization and mass spectrometry. The main drawback being of course the safe and legal disposal of the oil waste.
Other considerations include horsepower, noise level, maintenance and part replacement difficulty, and if a chemically resistant model is needed.