Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump Review

Let’s Dive into Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump is a compact, manually operated vacuum pump designed for laboratory and field applications requiring a reliable and portable vacuum source. Manufactured by Nalge Nunc International (NNI), this small pump promises to quickly achieve and maintain a vacuum of 635 Torr (25″ Hg) with a pumping rate of 15mL/stroke. Its self-lubricating design and adjustable vacuum release make it an attractive option for various tasks.

I was seeking a compact and dependable vacuum pump for remote field testing of soil samples, particularly in areas without access to electricity. Battery-powered pumps were bulky and prone to failure, while larger, electrically operated units were simply impractical to transport. I needed something robust, manually operated, and capable of creating a decent vacuum for quick sample preparation.

Upon receiving the Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump, my initial impression was positive, noting its surprisingly lightweight construction. The plastic housing felt sturdy and well-molded, but not premium, reflecting its intended practicality over aesthetics. The pump action was smooth, and the inclusion of two feet of NALGENE 8000 clear plastic tubing was a thoughtful touch.

Compared to a similar hand-operated vacuum pump from Welch, which felt clunkier and less refined, the Nalge Nunc pump appeared more streamlined and portable. I also considered a small electric diaphragm pump, but the need for batteries and the potential for electrical issues in wet environments steered me towards the manual Nalge Nunc model. Ultimately, the promise of lightweight portability and dependable manual operation swayed my decision.

I was cautiously optimistic; while the initial build quality seemed acceptable, I was eager to test its performance in demanding field conditions. The small size and light weight held promise, but its ability to consistently achieve and maintain the advertised vacuum remained to be seen. The price of $359.99 also made me expect a high level of reliability and performance.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test involved preparing soil samples for moisture content analysis at a remote site near a riverbank. The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump was used to draw water through a filter connected to the soil sample to quickly separate solids from liquids.

Despite damp conditions and some mud splatters, the pump performed admirably. Creating a vacuum required a moderate amount of effort, but it felt easier than I expected. The pump action was smooth and consistent, quickly drawing water through the filter setup.

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump was easy to use right out of the box, requiring no special setup or training. The simple design and straightforward operation made it intuitive, even with muddy hands. The adjustable vacuum release was especially handy, allowing for precise control of the suction.

The only minor issue I encountered was the small size of the exhaust port safety cover, which felt somewhat flimsy. While it’s a welcome safety feature, I wondered about its long-term durability under heavy use. Overall, the first field test was a positive experience, demonstrating the pump’s portability and effectiveness.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of near-daily use in various field locations, the Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It has consistently delivered the expected vacuum pressure, even after prolonged use.

Despite being subjected to dusty conditions, occasional bumps, and temperature variations, the pump shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The plastic housing remains intact, and the pump action is still smooth, with no noticeable reduction in performance. The NALGENE tubing shows no signs of cracking or damage.

Maintaining the Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump is straightforward: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The self-lubricating design eliminates the need for any specialized maintenance procedures. Compared to a previous hand pump I used, which required regular lubrication and often experienced valve malfunctions, the Nalge Nunc pump has been a significant improvement in terms of reliability and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump

Specifications

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and usability. It is a hand-operated pump designed to attain and hold a vacuum of 635 Torr (25″ Hg).

The pump has a pumping rate of 15mL per stroke, and it provides a positive pressure of 3psi at the exhaust port. It is lightweight and self-lubricating, which is an important factor for field applications. The adjustable vacuum release with trigger allows for fine control without disconnecting the pump.

These specifications directly translate to real-world benefits. The 635 Torr vacuum is sufficient for many common laboratory and field applications, such as filtration, degassing, and sample preparation. The pumping rate, although modest, is adequate for smaller volumes and allows for precise vacuum control. Finally, the positive pressure at the exhaust port can be used for other lab/field applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump performs its intended function effectively. Its simple and robust design makes it reliable.

The pump reliably creates and maintains the specified vacuum, making it suitable for a range of applications. Its strength lies in its portability, ease of use, and consistent performance. The one area for improvement is the pumping rate; for larger volumes, it can be time-consuming.

Overall, the pump meets and largely exceeds expectations. It delivers consistent performance, is easy to maintain, and is lightweight for easy transport. The only caveat is that the pumping rate is rather low, making it useful only for smaller volume work.

Design & Ergonomics

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump features a simple and functional design. The plastic construction makes it very lightweight.

The pump feels comfortable in hand and is relatively easy to operate for extended periods. There is minimal fatigue even after several minutes of continuous pumping. The simple design makes it easy to use, even with limited training.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump is constructed from durable plastics designed to withstand typical laboratory and field use. Its robust design suggests that it can last for many years.

Maintenance is straightforward: wiping the pump down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient. The self-lubricating design eliminates the need for any specialized maintenance or repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump comes with two feet of NALGENE 8000 clear plastic tubing. This standard tubing can be easily replaced with other tubing as needed.

There are no significant customization options for the pump itself. It’s a simple manual device without interfaces to add customizations. However, users can easily adapt the pump to a variety of applications by using different types of tubing, connectors, and filtration setups.

Pros and Cons of Nalge Nunc Vacuum Pumps, Hand-Operated, NALGENE 6131-0010 Small Pump