What Are The Usage Tips for Fume Hoods in Scientific Research Institutions During Long-term Experiments?

The use of fume hoods in scientific research institutions during long-term experiments needs to take into account safety, operational efficiency and equipment maintenance. The following provides specific tips from three aspects: usage norms, operation optimization and equipment maintenance

First, usage norms and safe operation

Pre-experiment inspection

Before starting, it is necessary to confirm that the fan, lighting, power supply and water supply and drainage system of the fume hood are operating normally. Check whether the face velocity meets the standard (usually 0.4-0.6m/s) to avoid pollutant leakage due to insufficient velocity.

Make sure the window glass is free of cracks and the sliding rail of the sliding door is smooth to ensure that it can be quickly closed in an emergency.

Operation area management

Experimental equipment should be placed deep inside the fume hood, at least 15cm away from the viewing window, to avoid blocking the airflow. When the height of the equipment exceeds 10cm, a bracket should be used to raise it to ensure the unobstructed air flow channel below.

The total area of the equipment inside the fume hood must not exceed 50% of the countertop area to avoid excessive stacking that may cause air flow disorder.

Window height control

During the experiment, the window should be kept half-open (from the lower edge to the user's elbow) to ensure that the upper part of the operator's chest is protected by glass.

When no operation is needed, the window should be lowered to the lowest position (10-15cm from the countertop) to reduce energy consumption and prevent contaminants from escaping.

Code of Conduct for Personnel

During the experiment, it is strictly prohibited to insert your head, hands or any other part of your body into the fume hood to avoid inhaling harmful gases.

Operators should avoid moving or waving their arms rapidly in front of the fume hood to prevent disturbing the airflow and causing the leakage of pollutants.

Second, operational optimization and efficiency improvement

Airflow stability control

Avoid opening doors and Windows or using fans near the fume hood to reduce cross-flow interference. During the experiment, try to minimize personnel movement and keep the airflow stable.

For experiments that generate high heat or high pollution, it is necessary to assess the exhaust capacity of the fume hood in advance. If necessary, adjust the experimental parameters or add auxiliary exhaust equipment.

Optimization of experimental process

Concentrate high-pollution operations within fume hoods to reduce the risk of pollutant diffusion. During the experiment, try to minimize the number of times the window is opened to avoid frequent operations causing airflow fluctuations.

For long-term experiments, it is necessary to regularly check the operating status of the fume hood to ensure the continuous and effective exhaust effect.

Emergency response preparedness

Before the experiment, it is necessary to be familiar with the emergency shut-off procedures of the fume hood to ensure that the power supply can be quickly cut off and the window closed in case of chemical leakage or fire.

Emergency flushing devices and fire extinguishing equipment should be provided in fume hoods, and operators need to receive regular emergency handling training.

Third, equipment maintenance and upkeep

Daily cleaning

After each experiment, the internal countertop and Windows of the fume hood should be wiped with clean water to promptly remove any reagent residues. For stubborn stains, a mild cleaner (such as acetone) can be used for wiping. Avoid using abrasive or bleach-containing cleaners.

Regularly clean the deflector plates and exhaust vents of the fume hood to prevent dust or reagent crystals from blocking the air flow channels.

Regular inspection

Check the operation status of the fan, motor and damper of the fume hood every quarter to ensure that the exhaust air volume meets the design requirements.

Conduct a comprehensive inspection of fume hoods every year, including indicators such as face velocity, leakage rate, and noise, to ensure that the equipment performance meets the standards.

Accessory maintenance

Regularly apply oil to metal parts such as door hinges and handles to prevent rust or jamming. Avoid direct contact of corrosive reagents with the accessories. If contact occurs accidentally, rinse immediately with clean water and dry.

Check the integrity of the power cord, socket and grounding device to prevent the risk of leakage or short circuit.

Professional maintenance

For complex faults or performance degradation issues, it is necessary to contact professional maintenance personnel for inspection and repair to avoid equipment damage or safety hazards caused by self-disassembly.

The filter of the fume hood needs to be replaced regularly according to the frequency of use and the type of pollutants to ensure the exhaust effect.