Can Welch pumps handle corrosive gases?

Yes. Welch diaphragm pumps are built with corrosion-resistant materials suitable for reactive and acidic gases.

Do I need a gas ballast for glove box applications?

Not typically. Diaphragm pumps don’t require gas ballasts, unlike rotary vane pumps, making them simpler to operate.

How often do Welch pumps require maintenance?

Diaphragm pumps have long service intervals and minimal maintenance needs. Most users report years of reliable operation without major servicing.

Are Welch pumps compatible with third-party glove boxes?

Yes. Welch pumps are designed to integrate with most glove box systems. Check connection specs or consult Welch for confirmation.

Vacuum for Glove Box | Welch Vacuum Products

Glove boxes are used to create a controlled environment, either for isolation of sensitive substances, or to protect users from hazardous materials. The boxes feature built-in gloves for safe handling of the contents.

A vacuum pump is used to remove ambient air from the glove box, which is backfilled with an inert gas, such as nitrogen or argon. This process can be repeated to further lower oxygen concentration. The transfer chambers should also be evacuated to prevent external atmosphere from entering the glove box.

Vacuum Systems for Controlled Atmosphere Enclosures

Glove boxes require stable, low-pressure environments to protect sensitive materials from moisture, oxygen, or other contaminants. Welch Vacuum systems are engineered to support these enclosures with consistent vacuum performance, long-term reliability, and compatibility with inert gas workflows.

Welch’s oil-free diaphragm pumps are the preferred choice for glove box applications. They maintain clean vacuum conditions without introducing oil vapor or requiring frequent maintenance. This is especially important in labs handling air-sensitive compounds, lithium batteries, or semiconductor materials.

Why Diaphragm Pumps Work Best

Welch diaphragm pumps offer:

Oil-free operation: Prevents contamination and simplifies maintenance.

Corrosion resistance: Handles reactive gases without degradation.

Stable vacuum levels: Supports precise control of glove box pressure.

Compact footprint: Fits easily into lab setups without sacrificing performance.

These pumps are often paired with gas purification systems to maintain inert atmospheres, such as nitrogen or argon. Welch’s models (CRVpro, DuoSeal and WOB-L) are compatible with most glove box brands and configurations.

Application Fit

Typical glove box use cases include:

Battery R&D: Handling lithium and other reactive metals.

Pharmaceuticals: Protecting hygroscopic or oxygen-sensitive compounds.

Semiconductor fabrication: Maintaining clean environments for wafer processing.

Chemical synthesis: Supporting air-free reactions and sample transfers.

Welch pumps are designed to integrate seamlessly into these workflows, offering quiet operation and long service intervals.

Product Selection Guidance

When choosing a pump for your glove box, consider:

Required vacuum level (typically between 1–100 mbar)

Gas compatibility (inert, corrosive, or reactive)

Flow rate needs based on box volume and purge cycles

Noise and vibration constraints in lab environments

Welch’s technical team can assist with sizing and configuration.

Standard glove boxes and transfer chambers are not normally evacuated much below 25 torr (29" Hg) due to plastic material limitations. Both acrylic and polycarbonate which are used in standard glove boxes are not suited for deep vacuum (1 torr operation).

High end glove boxes capable of deeper vacuum normally are constructed of stainless steel and heavy glass plates. Follow glove box manufacturer recommendations for vacuum pumping requirements.

Piston Pump Wob L 2581

Flow Rate (m³/min)
5.95
Ult. Vacuum (mbar)
6.7

FAQs

Most glove boxes operate between 1–100 mbar. The exact level depends on the materials and processes involved.

Glove Box