A fume is a collection of airborne gases and particulates that results from a chemical reaction, such as combustion. A fume is comprised of a large number of particles and includes the volume of air entrained within the mass. It is usually toxic to the human respiratory system. There are several types of fumes.
Low-flow alarms
Low-flow fume hood alarms have the capability of alerting you when airflow is inadequate. They detect the presence of fumes by drawing air through a front reference port and an internal air flow sensor or sidewall probe. When the airflow is below the set point, the alarm sounds and the airflow indicator light flashes red. The airflow monitor reverts to a normal state when the alarm condition has been cleared.
Low-flow alarms are usually equipped with a monitor and a push-button to set the alarm. The monitor also has a two-point calibration mechanism and a configurable time delay. The monitors can also be equipped with a recording feature.
Variable air volume (VAV)
Variable air volume (VAV) fume hoods are designed with sophisticated engineering controls to maintain laboratory ventilation. These systems can react to changes in air flow and pressure as well as laboratory occupants to provide tight regulation. However, the downside to this type of ventilation system is that the air flow rate can change unexpectedly. This may reduce the effectiveness of fume hood capture.
Variable air volume (VAV) ventilation is becoming increasingly common in laboratories. Its ability to regulate air flow in the room is an essential feature for lab safety. In addition, it can reduce energy consumption. The TEL AFA4000 VAV controller features an integrated Auto Sash Controller, which reduces the volume of air extracted when not in use, which saves energy. It also has an intuitive interface and two-step calibration for ease of use. The controller also offers alarm diagnostics and test functionality.
Continuous quantitative monitoring device
A continuous quantitative monitoring device for fume hoods can be used for a variety of purposes. This device is typically used to measure airflow from fume hoods. It is typically a small, rugged instrument that has built-in sensors that help to record airflow. It is ideal for use in small and medium-sized fume hoods.
A continuous monitoring device can be introduced directly into fume hoods to quickly analyze both solids and liquids. Some of these systems use ambient ionization with corona discharge (DESI), a technique that uses no sample preparation and requires very little training. Another option is a portable linear quadrupole mass analyzer. These devices are also useful for reactions that require precise quantitation or rapid identification.
A continuous quantitative monitoring device is a great way to ensure the safety of fume hoods. This device will give you immediate feedback when airflow is too high or too low. Besides being an important safety measure, a continuous quantitative monitoring device for fume hoods will help ensure that your lab is operating within OSHA standards.
Glass sash
If you’re a researcher or a student, you’re probably well aware of the health risks of glass sash fumes. But did you know that there are ways to reduce the effects of these fumes? One method is to lower the sash. This will help to conserve energy, and it will improve safety and comfort.
The sash should be at least 18 inches off the work surface. There are stickers on fume hoods indicating the maximum working height. Keeping the sash at the lowest level will help you control the fumes better, and will also ensure that your work is done in a hood that is safe for all occupants.
Glass fume hood sashes can be made of tempered or laminated safety glass. These two types of glass are more resistant to fire and explosion than ordinary float glass. Tempered glass can withstand up to three hundred and ninety degrees Fahrenheit without cracking, and can even withstand five times the impact of ordinary glass.
Manometers
A manometer is a device used to measure the amount of pressure in a gas. It can either measure the pressure in a vacuum or in a sample of gas. In the former case, the readings are recorded on a sticker. The other type is used to measure the pressure in gases in the atmosphere.
There are several types of manometers available, including stationary and digital hand-held models. They are used in paint booths, fume hoods, and pressurized storage tanks. Manometers need to be calibrated to ensure that they are giving accurate readings. Manometers can be calibrated by a certified technician using NIST traceable master pressure standards. This ensures the safety of the operators.