Increase your output with more than 50%!

Rely on Vacuum technology to increase your output

Client case – Production of silica 


It is one of the best insulating materials: silica aerogel. Derived from space research, it offers high thermal insulation combined with low density. The applications are countless: in electric vehicles, it is used to prevent batteries from overheating, but when applied as a plaster or paint, it eliminates thermal bridges in buildings. 
However, the French start-up ENERSENS countered some efficiency issues during the manufacturing process: Silica gel is a porous structure, which is filled with a solvent, ethanol. 

Two chemistry diaphragm pumps support the drying of silica aerogel at ENERSENS. (Image source: ENERSENS)

In order to remove the solvent afterwards, supercritical drying with CO2 was considered, but this would be both expensive and not particularly environmentally friendly. The solution? A computer controlled microwave oven in conjunction with condensation column and a combination of vacuum pumps: the PC 3012 VARIO select and MD 12C NT

Not only did these pumps make the entire production process more sustainable, thanks to the connected vacuum technology, the output of silica aerogel was increased by 60%!


Meet the unsung heroes in efficiency

Achieve unparalleled process control

PC 3012 VARIO Select
Chemistry pumping unit

With its high pumping speed and deep ultimate vacuum, this pump is suitable for demanding applications with high boiling point solvents. 

  • Vacuu-Select controller with predefined applications for simplified interactions
  • Automatic boiling point detection and adjustment of the vacuum
  • Extraordinary diaphragm life for minimal operational costs
  • ultimate vacuum 1.5 mbar (3mbar with gas ballast)

8 cilinder powerhouse 

MD 12C NT
Chemistry diaphragm pump

A three-stage pump capable of high pumping speeds for continuous, oil-free pumping of corrosive gases and vapors.

  • Reduced process time due to high pumping speed even near ultimate vacuum
  • Whisper quiet and low vibration
  • Very good ultimate vacuum even with open gas ballast valve
  • Maintenance-free drive system, long diaphragm lifetime