Vertical laminar flow hoods typically have a top or ceiling mounted filter.
Air exiting the filter media passes unidirectionally from the unit ceiling and then across the work surface, sweeping particles out of the enclosure as it goes..
Vertical laminar flow hoods are best for applications that require the use of large equipment on the work surface as the workspace is taller and larger with less turbulence caused by the vertical airflow.
Vertical laminar flow hoods are often favored for many applications due to their resemblance of cleanroom setups.Dec 19, 2018.
Unlike a vertical flow hood, a horizontal flow configuration hood will require additional rear clearance to allow air to enter the enclosure.
A deeper workbench and floor space will be required due to fan and filter placement.
Portable vertical laminar flow hoods are also available when space is limited..
In a vertical LFH, the filter is positioned on the top panel, moving air down towards the work bench.
In a horizontal LFH, the filter is positioned on the back wall, moving air horizontally across the workspace..
As the name implies, horizontal laminar flow hoods present airflow in a horizontal direction, while vertical laminar flow hoods provide a downward vertical flow.
And while you may know you need a laminar flow hood, knowing which laminar flow hood to choose can be difficult..
In a vertical LFH, the filter is positioned on the top panel, moving air down towards the work bench.
In a horizontal LFH, the filter is positioned on the back wall, moving air horizontally across the workspace..
When choosing between a horizontal and vertical laminar flow hood, you must consider the nature of your work and the specific requirements of your experiments.
The horizontal configuration is ideal when you need minimal turbulence near the work surface or if you are working with small samples..
Vertical laminar flow hoods are popular because of their size, layout, and operator safety.
Since the filter is at the top of the unit rather than behind, these flow hoods require less floor space but can be taller to fit larger products and materials..
But, laminar flow cabinets are not biological safety cabinets.
Laminar flow cabinets are configured to protect the work on the work surface.
They do not protect the operator as the airflow pushes aerosols or particulates from the work surface toward the operator.
Thermo Scientific biological safety cabinets (BSCs) have been developed to continually advance not just safety, but the user experience and laboratory efficiency.
Class I Biological safety cabinets are designed solely for operator protection.
Class II and Class III protect the product or specimen, the user, and the environment from contamination.
Class II cabinets have open access to the work zone while Class III BSC’s, often referred to as glove boxes, provides a barrier between the user and the work area.
