Why use a laboratory fume hood?
The laboratory fume hood is essential equipment for controlling ambient air, limiting contamination risks, and protecting users from inhaling hazardous substances. Depending on the type of work being performed, it can:
- Extract and filter chemical or biological vapors.
- Prevent the spread of potentially infectious aerosols.
- Maintain a sterile workspace through controlled airflow.
- Remove particles and dust from sensitive handling.
Working under a suitable hood helps ensure compliance with safety standards, while creating a comfortable and healthy working environment.
The different types of laboratory hoods
There are several types of laboratory fume hoods , each with specific characteristics suited to different scientific applications:
Laminar flow hood
Designed to protect the sample from contamination, the laminar flow hood generates an ultra-clean, unidirectional airflow that sweeps contaminants away from the work area. Ideal for microbiology, molecular biology, or cell culture work.
Microbiological safety cabinet (MSC)
The laboratory PSM offers triple protection: for the handler, the sample, and the environment. It filters pathogens via HEPA filters and guarantees optimal containment, particularly in level 2 or 3 laboratories.
Chemical hood or extractor hood
Used for the extraction of chemical vapors, it sucks up toxic fumes generated during experiments. It is equipped with specific filters, often activated carbon, to neutralize harmful gases before releasing or recycling the air.
Recirculating hood
Suitable for small laboratories without external exhaust, it filters and returns the purified air to the room. Please note that it is limited to certain non-critical uses.
Criteria for choosing a laboratory hood
Before purchasing a laboratory hood , several criteria must be carefully studied:
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Type of protection required (sample, user, environment).
- Nature of the substances handled (chemical, biological, volatile).
- Type of filtration required (HEPA, ULPA, activated carbon filters).
- Airflow and air speed ensuring optimal laminar flow.
- Work surface (stainless steel, tempered glass, chemical resistant).
- Required safety standards (ISO, EN, NF X15-211 for PSM).
Each criterion has a direct impact on the efficiency and safety of your laboratory. It's best to prioritize a precise analysis of your needs to choose the most suitable equipment.
Installation and maintenance of a laboratory fume hood
A laboratory hood is not just installed: to guarantee its performance over time, rigorous maintenance is essential.
Facility
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Location : Choose a location away from high traffic areas to limit air turbulence.
- Connection : for extractor hoods, provide an external exhaust or a suitable recirculation system.
- Calibration : Measure and adjust the initial airflow according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Interview
- Periodic checking of filters (HEPA, activated carbon) with replacement depending on the degree of saturation.
- Cleaning the work surface with compatible products (disinfectants without aggressive solvents).
- Annual inspection of the air flow and tightness of the ventilation system.
Poor maintenance can drastically reduce the effectiveness of your hood, exposing your staff to unnecessary risks.
Laboratory extractor hood price: how much should you budget?
The price of a laboratory extractor hood varies depending on several factors:
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Type of hood : A standard chemical hood will be less expensive than a microbiological safety cabinet.
- Dimensions : a 900 mm hood will naturally be less expensive than an XXL 1800 mm version.
- Filtration type : HEPA filters, ULPA filters, or activated carbon have a significant impact on the price.
- Additional options : LED lighting, insufficient airflow alarm, motorized windows, etc.
In general :
- For a classic chemical hood: expect to pay between €2,500 and €7,000 depending on the model.
- For a microbiological safety position: the budget varies between €5,000 and €15,000.
- For a laminar flow hood: prices range between €3,000 and €10,000.
Choosing a reconditioned hood from Rewake allows you to save up to 60% compared to a new one, without compromising on safety or performance.
Focus on filtration in a laboratory hood
The heart of a laboratory hood is its filtration system:
HEPA filters
They retain at least 99.97% of 0.3 micron particles. They are essential for sensitive biological applications.
Activated carbon filters
They adsorb harmful chemical vapors and gases, essential in a chemical hood intended for handling volatile solvents.
Double filtration
Some models combine HEPA and activated carbon filters to provide comprehensive protection against chemical and biological agents simultaneously.
A good choice of filters not only guarantees the quality of the extracted air, but also the durability of the equipment and the safety of your teams.
Laboratory hood: what is the link with the laminar flow hood?
When talking about laboratory fume hoods , it is important to distinguish between the different technologies available. The laminar flow hood is a specific solution, used mainly to protect samples from external contamination.
Unlike a classic chemical hood which protects the user, the laminar flow hood ensures:
- Product protection (e.g. cell cultures, sterile preparations).
- A unidirectional HEPA-filtered airflow, removing airborne particles.
- An ultra-clean environment compliant with ISO 5 standards.
In some laboratories, the combined use of a chemical hood and a laminar flow hood is necessary to cover all experimental needs.
Why choose Rewake for your laboratory fume hood?
At Rewake, we offer reconditioned laboratory hoods that meet the highest safety and performance requirements:
- Rigorous testing for airflow, sealing and filtration efficiency.
- Cost reduction : up to 60% cheaper than new equipment.
- Full 6-12 month warranty for maximum peace of mind.
- Fast delivery with on-site installation possible upon request.
We only select hoods from recognized brands such as Faster, ESCO, Thermo Fisher or Erlab to guarantee reliable equipment that complies with current standards.
Additional links for your lab project
If you are working on sensitive biology projects, you can also consult our selection of laboratory PSM (Microbiological Safety Cabinets), ideal for the simultaneous protection of the sample, the operator and the environment.
Need to fully equip your lab? Consider also integrating a thermal cycler for your DNA or RNA analyses, perfectly complementing your fume hood.
Investing wisely in a laboratory fume hood
A laboratory fume hood is much more than just a piece of equipment: it's the first line of defense between the operator and the substances being handled. By choosing a fume hood that's suited to your needs, well-maintained, and properly installed, you can ensure the safety of your teams and the reliability of your experimental work.
Thanks to our expertise and our demanding selection of reconditioned hoods, Rewake allows you to access high-end, high-performance and secure equipment, while optimizing your budget.
Ready to take your lab to the next level? Discover all our tailored solutions now and give your scientific projects a new dimension!
Ventilation, flow rate and air volume: the critical parameters
A laboratory fume hood relies on rigorous airflow management to ensure efficient and stable extraction. The volume of air extracted or filtered is directly linked to operator safety and the quality of the working environment. Each fume hood model is designed for a specific flow rate, expressed in m³/h, and must be adjusted according to the nature of the substances handled (volatile products, biological agents, etc.).
Too little airflow can expose the user to contamination, while excessive airflow creates turbulence that disrupts handling. It is therefore crucial to correctly calibrate the hood upon installation and to carry out regular checks. Modern hoods sometimes incorporate a plenum to ensure even distribution of the flow, increasing extraction efficiency across the entire work surface.
Materials and design: between safety and ergonomics
The choice of materials in a laboratory fume hood directly impacts its chemical resistance, ease of cleaning, and longevity. Internal walls are often made of stainless steel , a durable material that is easy to disinfect and resists corrosive agents well. Some fume hoods also use epoxy coatings or tempered glass for additional protection.
Beyond materials, ergonomic design plays a major role in working comfort. An angled front visor improves visibility and reduces eye strain. So-called " retractable " or sliding-front fume hoods allow optimal access to the work surface while limiting unwanted airflow. Finally, benchtop or hanging models can be chosen depending on the laboratory's layout and space constraints.
Filtration systems: how to compare them correctly
The heart of a fume hood is its filtration system. It determines the quality of the air drawn in and expelled, as well as user safety. HEPA filters are essential in biology laboratories: they capture more than 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 μm. For chemical fume hoods , an activated carbon filter is essential to neutralize toxic fumes and unpleasant odors.
Some models combine both technologies for complete protection. Others have a modular system that allows you to change the filter depending on the substances being handled. It is also crucial to consider the adsorption capacity , the estimated lifespan , and the presence of alert sensors to signal saturation. Choosing a hood also means choosing a filtration strategy adapted to your specific uses.
Technical performance and acoustic comfort
Beyond safety, a high-performance laboratory fume hood must offer smooth, discreet operation that is suited to the daily workload. Key technical indicators include airflow , expressed in m³/h, front suction speed (usually around 0.4 to 0.6 m/s), and the suction power of the integrated fan.
Noise level is another decisive factor, especially in shared spaces: a quiet hood (<60 dB) limits cognitive fatigue and improves working comfort. Some hoods also have several adjustable suction speeds , ideal for adjusting the intensity according to the nature of the handling. By combining efficiency and discretion, you create an environment that is both efficient and pleasant to live in.
Materials, dimensions and ergonomics: the right reflexes
The choice of materials for a laboratory fume hood directly influences its strength, longevity, and ease of maintenance. Stainless steel is often preferred for its rust-proof properties and ability to resist corrosive chemicals. Some models also include tempered glass or epoxy surfaces for better visibility and easier cleaning.
The work surface , the height of the visor and the angle of the front (inclined or vertical) must be chosen according to the morphology of the users and the type of handling. Well-thought-out ergonomics limits musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and improves the efficiency of movements. Also consider the internal work volume , especially if you use bulky equipment or work with several people.
Maintenance, alarms and integrated security
A high-performance laboratory fume hood should be designed to facilitate maintenance and ensure continuous safety. Check for built-in alarm systems, such as insufficient airflow alerts, filter saturation indicators, or service indicator lights. These features allow for rapid response in the event of a fault.
When it comes to maintenance, choose a hood with easily accessible filters that can be washed or replaced without complex tools. Some hoods also allow quick access to the plenum (air distribution box) to check for leaks or proper turbine operation. Simplified maintenance extends the life of the equipment and reduces operating costs.
Airflow and suction performance
The airflow of a laboratory fume hood is a fundamental criterion for ensuring effective extraction of vapors, dust, or microorganisms. An improperly calibrated airflow can compromise user protection and filter effectiveness. The ideal is a controlled laminar or turbulent flow, adapted to the type of substances handled.
The most efficient hoods have automatic flow control systems, which adjust in real time depending on the workload or filter clogging. Also check the suction power and the coverage of the capture area, which must encompass the entire work surface, including depth. Good capture limits the spread of contaminants in the laboratory.
