Prasad Lab Equipment

A Laboratory Fume Hood is a vital piece of safety equipment used in laboratories to protect users from hazardous fumes, vapors, dust, and chemical reactions that can release harmful substances into the air. It is designed to provide a controlled environment that directs potentially dangerous airborne contaminants away from the user, typically through a ventilation system that extracts them outside the building. Fume hoods are commonly used in chemical, biological, and pharmaceutical labs, as well as in educational and industrial research settings.

Key Features and Functions:

1. Ventilation System:

   • The primary function of a fume hood is to capture and exhaust harmful fumes or gases generated during experiments or reactions. It operates through a ventilation system that includes an exhaust fan and ducting to ensure that air is drawn into the hood and expelled safely outside the building.

2. Sash:

   • The sash is the window or door of the fume hood, usually made of transparent materials such as glass, to allow visibility while containing fumes. It can be raised or lowered to control the volume of air entering the hood. The sash also helps to contain dangerous substances inside the hood.

3. Airflow Control:

   • Constant airflow is crucial for maintaining safety. The fume hood is designed to maintain a uniform flow of air, typically between 80 to 120 linear feet per minute (LFPM), to effectively capture harmful vapors and gases. The airflow is typically adjusted by the user via the sash or automatic controls.

4. Face Velocity:

   • Face velocity refers to the speed at which air enters the fume hood. Maintaining the right face velocity is essential for the hood’s effectiveness. If the airflow is too low, dangerous fumes may escape; if too high, it may disrupt the work inside the hood.