Laminar Flow Chambers
A laminar flow cabinet or laminar flow chamber is a specialised enclosure that uses HEPA-filtered airflow to create a particle-free work environment, primarily used in laboratories to protect sensitive materials from contamination during experiments or processes. It maintains a unidirectional, consistent airflow, minimizing turbulence and ensuring a clean workspace.
Key Features:
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HEPA Filtration:
Laminar flow cabinets utilise high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove 99.99% of particles larger than 0.3 micrometers from the air, ensuring a clean and sterile environment.
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Unidirectional Airflow:
Air is circulated in a single, uniform direction (either horizontally or vertically), preventing the mixing of air and minimising the risk of contamination.
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Enclosed Workspace:
The laminar flow cabinet provides a contained space, typically with a front opening or sash, to work with sensitive materials while minimising exposure to external contaminants.
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Product Protection:
The primary function is to protect the work being performed inside the cabinet from external contaminants, such as dust, bacteria, and other airborne particles.
- Air is drawn into the laminar flow cabinet and passes through a pre-filter to remove larger particles.
- The air then passes through the HEPA filter, removing smaller particles and contaminants.
- The filtered air is then directed across the work surface in a laminar, unidirectional flow.
- This flow prevents the entry of contaminated air from the surrounding environment and keeps the work area free from particles.
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Biological and Medical Labs:
Maintaining sterile conditions for cell cultures, microbiological work, and handling sensitive biological samples.
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Pharmaceuticals:
Ensuring sterile environments for drug preparation, compounding, and packaging.
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Electronics Manufacturing:
Preventing contamination during the assembly of sensitive electronic components.
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Food Processing:
Maintaining clean environments for food testing and packaging.
