In many applications, particularly those with high temperature or aggressive chemical environments, the use of synthetic lubricants like perfluoropolyether (PFPE) offers superior characteristics compared to mineral oil. PFPE fluids are free of additives, chemically inert, and thermally stable. If you are operating a Leybold vacuum pump, please consult us at Intlvac Inc to learn if your application is suitable for the use of PFPE fluid.

PFPE oils are composed of carbon (C ), fluorine (F ), and oxygen (O ) atoms. The existing C-O and C-F bonds are highly stable making PFPE oils practically inert against all chemical and oxidizing influences. PFPE lubricants are engineered for those applications where heat, chemicals, solvents, corrosion, toxicity and flammability present lubrication problems. The use of PFPE oils can result in exceptionally long service life and superior performance in high vacuum applications.

Notable PFPE Properties include:

• Low vapor pressure
• Non-flammable
• Low volatility
• Good viscosity index
• Wide operating temperature range
• Good radiation stability
• CFC-free and Ozone friendly
• Low toxicity
• No flash or fire point

If it makes sense for your application to use perfluoropolyether (PFPE) fluids, Intlvac offers a PFPE conversion service so that your existing pump can use PFPE. This involves a complete disassembly and cleaning of the pump to ensure no trace amounts of other lubricants remain and the replacement of seals with PFPE compatible ones. Contact your sales rep to see if this is right for you.