A vacuum is defined as a space devoid of matter, including gas. Though outer space comes the closest, a truly perfect vacuum does not exist. Practically speaking, most manufactured vacuums are simply spaces where the pressure is significantly lower than the external atmospheric pressure. These partial vacuums have many applications in biology, chemistry, and clinical research.

Vacuum pumps, which can range from benchtop units to much larger systems, are used in experiments that involve aspirating, controlling, or inducing solvent evaporation in concentrators. Vacuum ovens, desiccators, driers, and rotary evaporators are other types of lab equipment that use vacuum pumps. Without a vacuum, rotary evaporation would not be possible. Though standalone vacuum pumps are top-rated devices, most only provide enough power for one workstation.

More sophisticated vacuum systems also exist which can service multiple workstations, providing an alternative to buying multiple pumps. Other than the number of workstations, the type of chemicals or concentrations you are using should be considered when getting a lab vacuum pump system.