Laminar flow refers to the mechanism when all the air in a given area flows at a similar rate and in a similar direction. A laminar workstation, in this context, is a properly constructed workstation that accurately channels filtered HEPA air. Most of these desks fully protect the area from pollutants generated in the workspace. These stations channel unconstrained air to sterility, preventing contamination while reducing disruption. Such workstations are primarily used to handle materials that are hypersensitive. Laminar stations are being used to securely circulate air through lab enclosures, where the idea of such a mechanism was originally discovered in the late 1900s. (Information source: https://www.rdm-ind.com/product-category/laboratory-furnishings/laminar-flow-clean-air-workstations/)
The usage of laminar workstations
In a research environment, these workstations offer a variety of uses, particularly where fresh and separate air circulation is needed for smaller objects. The use of the laminar workstation in a lab is dependent on specific processes and can be modified to fit diverse specifications as well. These workstations may be used in a variety of industries, including medicine, pharmaceutical, laboratory tests, electronics, and manufacturing.
A unidirectional flow of air from the floor passes through the HEPA filters and into the functional compartment. The air is returned to the atmosphere from the workspace partially through the opening in the backside of the station, but mostly through the gap between the table's surface and the protective glass. The particles are held down by a fan, which pushes the air through the filtration system. The HEPA filter then subsequently removes all airborne contaminants, ensuring a hygienic environment in the lab.
Types of laminar flow workstations and their differences
Primarily there are two basic variants of laminar workstations that can be seen that are used for different labs for different requirements, including horizontal hood and vertical hood workstations.
In the case of horizontal workbenches, the surrounding air is drawn from behind the unit and pushed by a fan into the HEPA filter, where it is filtered and finally released horizontally into the working area. For vertical laminar flow hoods, filters are usually installed on the ceiling of the station. The air that released the filter flows in a single direction from the ceiling to the work surface, pushing contaminants out of the enclosure.
A vertical flow bench takes up less surface area than a horizontal one, making it easier to handle and reducing the risk of blocking the air circulation. Since it does not push air straight at the individual performing the research, the vertical flow hood provides a higher level of security as lab equipment. The filter installation process in a horizontal airflow hood involves the removal of hoods and cabinets, but in a vertical workstation, it is considerably faster and simpler as the filter is located on the roof of the unit. The air released by vertical airflow laminar systems has also more linear and has less turbulence than the horizontal benches.
Advantages of using a laminar flow workstation
A workstation with laminar airflow needs little maintenance which is why it is considered value for money in most labs. It requires filter replacement occasionally, and compared to the cost of implementation, it is indeed low-cost lab equipment that requires no yearly servicing.
One of the most significant characteristics of these workstations is their ecological friendliness factor. These pollution-free airflow workstations recirculate surrounding air while reducing pollutants. To put it another way, the air within the room does not really escape which makes it an efficient and eco-friendly option for lab equipment.
Laminar flow benches provide utmost safety to the lab environment by monitoring the carbon and gas emissions or concentrations regularly.
Excluding electrical cables, another benefit of the laminar workbench is that this is a portable unit. This provides for convenient access as portable workstations can be relocated from one location to another for any purpose.
Conclusion:
When used in conjunction with proper procedures, laminar flow hoods provide considerable levels of security to lab employees and the surroundings. Many scientific processes create contagious splashes or aerosols, and the laminar flow hood offers a sterile workspace while enabling contaminants to be contained.