The Filtered Flueless Fume Hood is a type of fume hood that does not require any external ventilation (chimney) system while ensuring the discharge of harmful gases, fumes and chemical vapors in the laboratory environment. This system filters gases and particles and returns clean air back to the laboratory environment.
Features of the Flueless Fume Hood
1. Filtration Technology:
o HEPA Filters: Filters particles and biological agents (dust, microorganisms).
o Activated Carbon Filters: Holds chemical vapors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
o Special Chemical Filters: Filters optimized for specific chemicals such as acid vapors and formaldehyde.
2. Closed Loop Air Flow:
o Harmful gases and particles are cleaned and returned to the environment after the air inside passes through the filters.
o Since it does not require air outlet to the outside environment, it is portable and offers ease of installation.
3. Compact Design:
o It is smaller and lighter than traditional fume hoods.
o It can be easily used in different laboratory areas thanks to its mobile-based options.
4. Chemically Resistant Materials:
o Its inner and outer surfaces are coated with materials such as epoxy coating or polypropylene resistant to chemical corrosion.
5. Energy Efficiency:
o Since there is no continuous air discharge, energy consumption is low.
Advantages
1. Does Not Need a Chimney:
o Since there is no need for an external ventilation infrastructure in the building, it reduces both installation and operating costs.
2. Mobility:
o It can be transported between laboratories and is easy to carry.
o It is a suitable solution for seasonal needs.
3. Environmentally Friendly:
o Since air is not discharged, harmful emissions are not released into the environment.
4. Easy Installation:
o It does not require complex ventilation systems, it can be used immediately by plugging it in.
5. Flexibility:
o It can be customized with filter options compatible with different types of chemicals.
Disadvantages
1. Requires Filter Change:
o Filters have a certain lifespan and need to be changed regularly (depending on the type and density of the chemical).
2. Chemical Limits:
o Not suitable for continuous use of very high volumes or extremely corrosive chemicals.
o Since its filtering capacity is limited, it may not be suitable for some chemicals.
Areas of Use
1. Educational Laboratories:
o Suitable for basic chemical studies in schools and universities.
2. Research Laboratories:
o For low-volume chemical processes and analyses.
3. Biotechnology and Microbiology:
o Models with HEPA filters are ideal for working with biological agents.
4. Clinical and Medical Laboratories:
o Used for low-intensity chemical processes and drug tests.