Laboratory fume hoods are considered as a ventilation system through which a laboratory is able to get rid of toxic gases, dust, aerosol, chemical fumes and other potentially harmful components that may contaminate the area. In effect, this lab equipment can help make the lab’s atmosphere more efficient, which in turn, can lead to a safer working environment.
How Do Fume Hoods Specifically Work?
In certain cases, fume hoods act as a protective barrier for lab workers. Certain lab activities and operations are actually done inside the hoods, in order to prevent the people handling chemicals from inhaling fumes and other toxins. Fumes that have been diluted, exhausted and properly ventilated are harmless to human health.
What Are the Types of Fume Hoods?
There are various types of fume hoods, depending on their uses and purposes. Here are some of the types of lab fume hoods that you might want to take a look at:
- Distillation Fume Hood – this type of hood shares the same features as that of a standard fume hood, although this is lower in height for easier handling. This also requires the installation of distillation equipment, for greater efficiency.
- Radioisotope Fume Hood – as its name implies, this type of fume hood is meant to protect users from radiation. These have been specifically designed with worktops that can handle the weight of lead shielding plates (for radiation protection) and it also makes use of stainless steel, for more efficient decontamination.
- Acid Digestion Fume Hood – these are made of acid-resistant components. To effectively handle acids, high-service temperatures are used, while polycarbonate materials are utilized for additional safety and durability.
Note: there are many other types of fume hoods that you can use to your advantage. However, it is advisable that you look into the types of operations they will be used for (as well as the chemicals that they will be constantly exposed to) in order to ensure the utmost efficiency.
In the end, one thing is clear: fume hoods are indeed important…
They are here for a reason—and if you are looking for one, you must ensure that you are actually using those specific pieces that have the needed features—and was designed by a manufacturer that actually knows what to do. By doing so, you get to ensure the utmost efficiency and you get to reduce any untoward risks as well.
RDM is a leading industrial and laboratory furniture manufacturer that has been providing a wide array of industrial and laboratory products for over 37 years. The company is known for its reliability, reputability and for its top-class products.
Do you want to know more about RDM? Click here for details or call us at 877-777-9130.