Vita Vacumat 50 Upd ((hot)) » 【Real】
The VITA Vacumat 50 (including the UPD variant) is a legacy vacuum firing furnace developed by VITA Zahnfabrik, a company with a century-long history in dental innovation. Primarily used in dental laboratories, this furnace is designed for the high-precision firing of dental ceramics, such as metal-ceramics and all-ceramic restorative materials. Core Technical Specifications
The Vacumat 50 is characterized by its robust build and dependable heating technology. Key technical data includes:
Temperature Range: Capable of reaching a maximum firing chamber temperature of 1200°C.
Chamber Dimensions: The interior firing space features a diameter of approximately 96 mm and a height of 70 mm. vita vacumat 50 upd
Power & Electrical: Operates on 230V AC (50/60 Hz) with a maximum power consumption of 1.5 kW.
Physical Build: The unit weighs approximately 19 kg and has external dimensions of roughly 540 mm (H) x 350 mm (W) x 365 mm (D).
Programming: The device typically supports up to 50 individual firing programs, allowing technicians to store custom protocols for different ceramic materials. Operational Features The VITA Vacumat 50 (including the UPD variant)
The "UPD" designation in VITA's older lineup often referred to "Microprocessor-controlled" or updated electronic units designed for specific regional markets or technical standards.
Vacuum Integration: To achieve the necessary density and translucency in dental porcelain, the furnace requires an external vacuum pump (such as the PM 2932 type).
Thermal Control: High-quality electronics ensure safe control of temperature ramps and cooling phases, which is critical for preventing cracks in ceramic restorations. Compact size suitable for countertop use
Maintenance: The system includes internal diagnostics, such as an automatic temperature adjustment and standby modes (ranging from 200°C to 800°C) to keep the chamber dry and ready for use. Modern Successors
While the Vacumat 50 remains in use in some labs, it has largely been superseded by the VITA VACUMAT 6000 series. Newer models, such as the VACUMAT 6000 M, offer enhanced features: Furnaces, May 2015 - VITA Zahnfabrik
Advantages
- Compact size suitable for countertop use.
- Faster cycles at 134°C for rapid instrument turnaround.
- Vacuum-assisted drying improves usability of wrapped instrument packs.
- Built-in safety and control features for consistent sterilization.
A. Power On / Off
- Turn on main switch (rear).
- Display shows software version, then enters standby.
- Let furnace heat to standby temperature (~500 °C) before firing.
Error: "E-04" – Thermocouple Break
- Cause: The PtRh-Pt wire has snapped due to contamination or aging.
- Fix: Order a replacement thermocouple (Part # 3500A). This is a DIY fix for experienced techs; requires unscrewing the old one and cutting/reconnecting the compensation wire.
7. Safety Tips
- Never open door above 600 °C – rapid cooling damages muffle.
- Wear heat-resistant gloves when removing hot trays.
- Keep flammable materials away from furnace.
- Let furnace cool to <50 °C before cleaning internal parts.
2. Key Specifications (Typical)
- Vacuum: Capable of reaching a vacuum of roughly 20–25 mbar (absolute pressure) to ensure air removal.
- Capacity: Accommodates standard mixing bowls (usually 1-liter or 2-liter bowls).
- Speed: Variable mixing speed is often a feature, allowing the technician to adjust the RPM based on the material being mixed (e.g., slow for heavy plasters, faster for investments).
- Timer: Most models include an electronic timer to ensure consistent mixing times.
Is the VITA VACUMAT 50 UPD Still Relevant in 2024-2025?
Given that this model is largely discontinued (replaced by the VITA VACUMAT 600 M and 600 MP), you might wonder if it is obsolete. The answer is a nuanced no.
- For Pressable Ceramics & Feldspathic: It remains excellent. Newer furnaces offer touchscreens and Wi-Fi, but the firing results are nearly identical.
- For Zirconia: Limited. The standard VACUMAT 50 UPD does not have a sintering program for high-speed zirconia (1500°C+). However, with a hard-wired modification (adding a sintering shelf and specific program parameters), some labs use it for small-unit zirconia. Do not use it for monolithic zirconia bridges without consulting a technician.
- Market Position: These units sell briskly on eBay and dental trading forums for $1,200–$2,500 USD, depending on pump condition and hours of use. A new comparable furnace (like VITA 600M) costs $6,000+.
3. Basic Operation
Mastering Precision: The Ultimate Guide to the VITA VACUMAT 50 UPD Dental Furnace
In the world of modern dentistry and dental technology, precision is not just a goal—it is a requirement. For dental technicians and lab owners, the firing process of ceramic restorations can make or break the final aesthetic result. Among the pantheon of dental furnaces, one model has consistently stood out for its reliability, German engineering, and technological longevity: the VITA VACUMAT 50 UPD.
Whether you are troubleshooting an existing unit, looking to upgrade your lab’s equipment, or simply researching the best pressing and firing furnace on the secondary market, this guide covers everything you need to know about the VITA VACUMAT 50 UPD.