As a critical safety device in laboratories, the installation quality of a fume hood directly affects the health of laboratory personnel and the accuracy of experimental data. A professional installation guide not only ensures optimal performance but also helps prevent future operational risks. This article provides a systematic overview of the standard installation process and key steps to support laboratory equipment engineers and facility managers.
I. Preparations Before Installation
1. Site Assessment and Planning
A thorough site evaluation is the foundation of a successful installation. According to industry standards, the installation site should meet the following requirements:
- Space Requirements:
The fume hood should be placed on a flat and stable surface. Leave 50–80 cm of space on both sides for door operation and maintenance, and 30–50 cm behind the unit for service access. The fume hood should be located in an area with minimal airflow disturbance, or a bypass/low-turbulence type may be used. - Environmental Conditions:
Avoid locations with high temperatures, humidity, direct sunlight, or heavy dust. Keep the fume hood at least 1.5 meters away from precision instruments such as analytical balances to prevent airflow interference. Also avoid areas with heavy foot traffic. - Safety Considerations:
The fume hood should not be installed in crowded areas to reduce airflow disturbance caused by personnel movement. Emergency equipment such as eyewash stations and fire extinguishers must remain easily accessible.
2. Equipment and Accessory Inspection
Pre-installation inspection is essential:
- Verify Equipment Details:
Check the model, accessory list (e.g., filters, carbon layers, fan modules), and ensure that the cabinet is free of deformation or damage. - Confirm Filter Specifications:
Select filter types according to experimental needs—for example, double-layer activated carbon filters for organic solvent applications. - Electrical Requirements:
Ensure power supply compatibility (typically 220V/50Hz). It is recommended to use an independent circuit with proper grounding.
Guangzhou Kunling has developed a comprehensive on-site inspection checklist based on years of installation experience, helping to prevent rework caused by mismatched components or unsuitable installation environments.
II. Standard Installation Procedures
1. Positioning and Leveling the Cabinet
Precise cabinet positioning ensures stable airflow:
- Place the lower cabinet body in the planned location.
- Use a level to adjust the unit to a horizontal position (tolerance ≤2°).
- Adjust leveling feet or add anti-slip pads if needed.
2. Component Assembly
- Upper Cabinet Installation:
After positioning the lower unit, place the upper cabinet on top, aligning both the rear and sides. - Filter Installation:
For ductless fume hoods, install pre-filters, HEPA filters (≥99.97% efficiency at 0.3 μm), and chemical filters as required. Ensure airflow direction matches label markings and seal properly to prevent leakage. - Fan Connection:
Connect the fan module to the inlet using anti-vibration pads. Verify that the fan rotates in the correct direction.
3. Exhaust System Integration
The exhaust system directly affects fume hood performance:
- Fan Selection:
For ducts shorter than 10 meters, axial fans are typically used; for longer ducts, centrifugal fans are recommended. Fan materials are typically PP or fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). - Duct Connection:
Use flexible, non-combustible hoses at least 200 mm long for fan-to-duct connections. Duct diameter must match the fan ports. - Fan Installation:
Install the fan on a level, reinforced base at least 200 mm high. Use a steel bracket secured to the concrete base with rubber vibration-absorbing pads.
Guangzhou Kunling recommends using one exhaust fan per fume hood to avoid cross-contamination between rooms.
III. Electrical and Control System Installation
Fume hood electrical installation must follow strict safety protocols:
- Route fan and lighting wires from the upper unit to the control box.
- Connect to a 220V power source. Use protective conduits to shield wires from corrosive gases.
- Ensure the cabinet body and outlets are properly grounded.
- Configure the control panel: set face velocity (typically 0.3–0.5 m/s), timer switches, and filter pressure-drop alarm thresholds.
IV. Commissioning and Testing
1. Leak & Seal Testing
- Use smoke or aerosol generators to check sealing at door gaps, filter frames, and joints.
- With the sash closed, use a velometer to verify uniform face velocity (variation ≤10%).
2. Operational Testing
- No-load Test:
Run the fan for 30 minutes to check for abnormal vibration or noise (≤65 dB). - Face Velocity Measurement:
Measure average face velocity; commonly accepted range is 0.3–0.5 m/s (approx. 60–100 FPM). - Load Test:
Place small amounts of low-concentration reagents like ethanol to ensure no odor escapes.
3. Performance Verification
Follow ASHRAE 110-1995 (or latest version) including:
- Face velocity measurements
- Airflow visualization and smoke tests
- Tracer gas containment tests
Guangzhou Kunling provides a complete test report for every installed fume hood to ensure compliance with safety standards.
V. Post-Installation Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance ensures long-term performance:
- Filter Maintenance:
HEPA filters typically last 1–2 years; activated carbon filters require replacement every 6 months depending on usage. Replace when differential pressure doubles. - Routine Cleaning:
Wipe interior surfaces monthly with mild detergent; disinfect stainless steel with alcohol. - Regular Inspection:
Check face velocity, interior cleanliness, sash operation, and baffles.
Conclusion
Fume hood installation is a systematic task involving site selection, mechanical assembly, electrical wiring, exhaust integration, and comprehensive commissioning. Only by following strict standards can laboratories ensure safe and effective operation. Professional installation and periodic maintenance—such as the services provided by Guangzhou Kunling—can guarantee long-term stability and safety, providing reliable protection for laboratory environments.