One can identify laminar flow hoods by several other names like laminar flow workstation, laminar flow cabinets or clean benches. However, the functionality of the equipment remains same. They are one of the essential tools used in laboratories to maintain an aseptic environment in different applications. Whether it is laminar air flow used in microbiology or electronics assembly, you will come across different types of equipment and features. So, you might feel overwhelmed when choosing the right hood. That is why we have compiled this guide for you to streamline critical processes in the laboratory and avoid contamination in the PCR application samples.
How to choose a suitable laminar air flow hood?
Are you are working in a laboratory and searching for a laminar air flow hood? Need equipment that fits your requirements perfectly? Well, you must be familiar with how crucial is this equipment for maintaining a sterile environment. Moreover, you should be well-versed with methods to contain infectious material that several microbiological procedures produce.
Now, laminar air flow indicates that the movement of air in the same direction at a uniform speed. There is minimal or no instance of air streams crossing over. Most biological laboratories that report sensitivity to contamination need laminar flow hoods to ensure that that particles move from the cleanest area below the hood to the exit area. To maintain a germ-free environment in the laboratory, you must choose a suitably designed flow hood.
How a laminar air flow hood works?
Before moving ahead to choose the right laminar air flow hood that matches your need, here is a brief account of how it works:
- The flow hood comprises a fan, a filter pad, and a HEPA filter
- The fan pulls air through the filter pad to pin down dust
- The air that is freed from dust now moves through the HEPA filter and removes bacteria, fungi, and other contaminating particles from the air
- Finally, sterilized and pure air flows across the work area and allow you to complete your flasking without worrying about contamination.
However, to truly maintain a sterile environment in your workstation, the HEPA filter on the hood need to eliminate all the air-borne particles. At the same time, the air speed in there must be around one-half m/s. If you fail to pick the right kind of design of the flow hood, it will reduce the overall quality and effectiveness of the flow hood. Moreover, it should have a high-quality filter for improved functionality.
Types of flow directions
You are familiar with the basic functionality and the advantages of laminar air flow hood. While the equipment needs to come fitted with high-quality parts, there are other parameter based on which you need to decide which airflow hood is a perfect fit for your workstation. The flow direction is one of the crucial determinants to help you decide the right equipment for your needs. Explore here to know more about the air flow:
- Horizontal air flow
Horizontal flow indicates that the air moves from the back of the work area to the front. It provides the highest protection to the culture when air flows to the personnel. On the other hand, the personnel get maximum protection when the air flows to the culture. Now, let’s dive into the pros and cons of horizontal flow to know if it is a good fit for your needs:
Advantages:
- Minimal impact of turbulence or air striking on the work surface
- The gloves, hand, and other safety tools are less likely to be contaminated due to downstream of the sample
- It’s easier to position the equipment due to absence of sash
Disadvantages
- Air flows toward the personnel directly
- You may have to reposition the laminar air flow hood to avail rear access
- Fumes or powders often flow into the personnel’s face
- When working with larger samples, airflow can be obstructed and samples downstream may be contaminated
- Vertical air flow
In the vertical flow, air moves from the top of the area of work and down to the bottom and exits through the holes in the base. It is a good option if you are trying to safeguard your cultures and laboratory personnel. Here are the pros and cons explained:
Advantages
- Less floor space consumed due to low depth of the hood
- Easier to safeguard laboratory personnel as air does blow on to them directly and a sash in the front of the operator’s face acts as the barrier
- Air turbulence does not impact the object and processing equipment
- Filter is located on the top of the unit makes it more accessible when changing the filters
- Can be easily used during compounding of aseptic products
Disadvantages
- Using a step ladder may be necessary when changing the filter or maintenance to meet overhead clearance needs
- Cannot hinder airflow by placing items or hands on top of others
- Due to air striking on the work surface, the impact of turbulent air flow is maximum
Which laminar air flow hood should you choose?
Choosing the right air flow hood depends on nature of your laboratory operation. Therefore, you can pick a horizontal laminar flow hood when you need minimal airflow turbulence on the work surface, laboratory items are small, and you need to control contamination at the highest level. On the other hand, the vertical air flow hood is more appropriate when the equipment used on the work surface consists of larger items, there is likelihood of fine powders, and you need a taller and larger workspace.
To buy laminar air flow hood customised for your needs, stop at https://www.igenels.com/ and meet your working demands satisfactorily.
No comments:
Post a Comment