Fume Hood

Overview

Fume hoods, or fume cupboards, act as a first line of defense that minimizes chemical other hazardous exposure to lab workers. They are normally used in schools and science labs that protect from inhalation of hazardous chemical vapors. Hence, it is very important to work inside a properly functioning fume hood when you are handling harmful chemicals. Fume hoods are basically classified into two types: ducted and recirculating fume hoods. The ducted fume hood carries the fumes outdoors, whereas the recirculating fume hood pulls the fumes via a filter and then returns the air back into the room. Fume hoods are available in wide variety of size that can accommodate single user to three or more people. Fume hoods are made from high-quality timber and steel coated with epoxy powder. Most of the older fume hoods are ducted and come with asbestos pipe.

How it Works

Recirculating fume hoods draws the fumes via a filter and then returns back the clean air into the room through a fan and a filtration system. These fume hoods are ideal for educational institutions and laboratories throughout the United States. Recirculating fume hoods employ two stages of filtration like pre and main filtration. The pre-filtration consists of a physical barrier that open cell foam for preventing entry of large particles. This is followed by suction of fumes via a layer of activated charcoal that sucks up the chemicals. Ducted fume hoods are widely used in industries. In this, air is removed from the workplace and carries to the atmosphere. The ducted fume hood comes with one piece of the lab ventilation system that abandons dangerous contaminant. Using automatic sash closing device, you can improve its functionality and safety as well.

Benefits

Benefits of using fume hoods in workplaces are tremendous. Those who are handling explosive, radioactive, or extremely toxic materials must work under fume hoods that protect from several hazardous conditions. Laboratory fume hoods help to control gases, mists, dusts, and fumes released by volatile liquids. Fume hoods also protects against inhalation of hazardous substances that may be carcinogenic, mutagenic, reproductive, or high acute toxicity. Fume cupboards also protect from skin and eye irritation due to volatile chemicals.

Costs

The rate of the hood depends on the physical characteristics, size, quantity, materials used, probability of their release, and advanced features etc. The capacity also decides the rate of the fume hoods. These hoods are manufactured in five different widths and depths. Fume hoods or fume cupboards ranges from $3,000 to $6,000. Some fume hoods come with alarm control panels and they cost around $8,000. Based on the exhaust options and filter system, the rate of the fume cupboard increases considerably.

Timing

The need for fume cupboards has been increased considerably. Educational institutions, research organizations, pharmaceutical industries, chemical industries, and many other require fume hoods for safe handling.