The most basic form of laboratory workbench is the simple stainless steel workbench. This option is ideal for simple everyday laboratory tasks. They are also great for environments that don’t require many other extra features such as storage, or adjustable height. This style of industrial workbench offers a durable, clean surface and is designed for light, standard, or heavy-duty equipment and use. However, before deciding what style of industrial workbench is best for your lab it’s important to consider the additional features listed below.
Surface Material:
The type of surface material is a key point to consider when selecting an industrial workbench for laboratory use. It’s important to understand what kind of procedures will be carried out. For example, should the surface be resistant to corrosive chemicals and high temperatures? Or do I just need a simple material that is easy to clean and resistant to scratches?
Epoxy Resin: Considered the top choice for laboratory workbenches, this material is suitable for harsh conditions, including high heat and corrosive chemicals.
Phenolic: This is a long-lasting and lightweight countertop that is commonly used for workbenches in colleges and high schools. The material is resistant to most corrosive chemicals, is stain proof, and easy to clean.
Chemguard Laminate: Similar to plastic laminate with a slightly higher resistance to reactive chemicals and heat.
Plastic Laminate: This scratch-resistant material is the most commonly used surface material and is also the least resistant. Only consider this material for basic use since it cannot protect against corrosive chemicals or high heat conditions.
Adjustable Height Workbenches and Lift Tables:
It’s important to consider the number of different people who will be using the workbench. If more than one person, consider an adjustable height workbench or Lift Table. Today, it’s important to ensure a health-conscious and ergonomically-aware work environment. Business are now taking necessary steps to prevent common musculoskeletal injuries, such as muscle strains, that can be caused from forcing the body to work in unnatural and uncomfortable positions. For example, microscopes are commonly used in laboratories and it’s essential to ensure the correct eye level. If a workbench cannot be adjusted, this may force some employees to hunch over or strain their body in a way that could lead to an injury. An adjustable height workbench is a simple solution and can ensure a safer and more comfortable workspace.
If you’re planning to place very heavy equipment onto the laboratory workbench, then consider a stainless steel workbench with a lift feature, such as hydraulics. Despite being lightweight, these stainless steel lift tables are durable and can support very heavy equipment and scientific instruments.
Laboratory Workbench with Storage Options and Sink:
Laboratory workbenches are also available with a variety of storage options, including shelves that can be located under the tabletop, or hutch-style storage compartments with shelves and doors. When considering storage options, it’s important to first decide what kind of lab equipment or tools are used. Workbenches with a combination of storage options and a sink are also available and are popular choices for biology and chemistry science labs.
Laminar Flow Hoods and Fume Hoods:
Does your laboratory require a sterile environment or protection against harmful substances? Laminar flow hoods are often used in medical research laboratories. They use filtered air flows to protect sensitive equipment and devices as well as to prevent contamination of biological samples. Fume hoods use an upward airflow to protect laboratory workers from harmful substances that can be released from chemicals and toxic materials.
Portable Laboratory Workbenches and Custom Laboratory Carts:
Sometimes it may be necessary to move equipment around to other areas of the lab. Or to combine laboratory furniture together in different configurations. For this reason it’s important to consider whether you need a portable or stationary stainless steel laboratory table. These tables, also referred to as laboratory carts, include wheels for easy mobility. Carts are also available with storage options as well as height adjustability. Custom laboratory carts are also available, including Custom Material Handling Carts, Custom Tool Carts, Stainless Steel Carts, Custom Packaging Carts, Standard Mobile Table Carts, Vertical Panel Storage Carts, and a variety of others.
Click for more information about other RDM industrial and laboratory workbench options.