If you work in a laboratory environment, it is not only crucial to have a functioning laboratory fume hood and a worker that understands how to work it, but it is also vital to have the correct one for your intended use to ensure the safety of everyone in the laboratory. However, there are several options available, making it tough to determine which one is ideal for your lab. CatLabPro is here to help make the process of selecting the right fume hood much simpler.
Purpose of Fume Hoods
To put it simply, laboratory fume hoods allow chemists and scientists to work with potentially harmful substances without the worry of inhalation or accidental exposure. Inhalation of gas due to a chemical reaction can result in serious problems. Without a fume hood and proper ventilation, those working in a lab environment can redirect gases, vapors, and fumes produced by the substances they work with back into the lab.
Correct Fume Hood Usage
To ensure that you are utilizing your lab fume hood to the top of its ability, consider the following:
When doing an experiment or boiling materials where splashing might occur, be sure to use a shield to protect themselves.
Perform all their laboratory duties concerning hazardous or volatile materials under the lab fume hood.
Ensure that the lab fume hood is free of any damage and is working properly before use.
Hazardous material must remain 15 centimeters or more from the main opening of the laboratory fume hood.
Electrical devices must remain outside of the fume hood.
Fume Hoods for Certain Substances
Perchloric Acid Fume Hoods – Corrosive and explosive materials like perchloric acid need special consideration. For thorough cleaning, this fume hood includes a wash down system, integral work surfaces and drainage troughs to prevent the accumulation of potentially reactive perchloric salts. It also has a full view sash and stainless-steel construction.
Radio Isotope Fume Hoods – This laboratory fume hood may be right for you if you work with radiochemicals. The Radio Isotope Fume Hood is designed to facilitate decontamination using a fully sealed integral work surface and coved interiors. This fume hoods surface and lining are also stainless steel.
Economy Fume Hoods
Basic Fume Hoods – The Basic Fume Hood is for light duty applications where safe ventilation is required. These hoods are also smaller in height and depth to be able to fit in tight areas.
High-Performance Lab Fume Hoods – While still providing quality and safety, these fume hoods cut energy costs significantly. To provide exceptional energy-saving capabilities, the design of the High-Performance Fume Hood reduces the size of the HVAC equipment and reduces the volume of air that needs to be exhausted and conditioned.
Large Fume Hoods
Demonstration Fume Hoods – This fume hood is ideal for the teaching environment. The Demonstration Fume Hood features end windows and a transparent back for clear viewing of the interior providing enhanced visibility for conducting chemistry demonstrations or observing students using the hood.
Floor-Mounted Fume Hoods – This laboratory fume hood is designed for using bulky apparatus, oversized equipment, or maximum working height. This fume hood is available in widths of up to sixteen feet. To learn more about what type of fume hood your lab needs, contact one of our specialists today.