LABORATORY FUME HOOD
Laboratory Fume Hood: Everything you need to know
What is a laboratory fume hood?
The laboratory fume hood is an essential safety device in scientific environments, particularly in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, and research. It is a ventilated enclosure that protects users from exposure to hazardous substances such as chemical vapors, gases, aerosols, or dust. It plays a crucial role in controlling exposure to volatile or toxic products by providing a physical barrier and effectively removing contaminants.
Used daily in laboratories, the fume hood allows for:
- Protecting personnel from chemical hazards.
- Limiting cross-contamination between experiments.
- Controlling the work environment by reducing hazardous emissions.
It is therefore essential for working safely with corrosive, flammable, or toxic substances.
What is the difference between a filtered fume hood and a laboratory fume hood?
Although similar in appearance and function, the sorbonne and the filtered fume hood serve different purposes in the laboratory. The sorbonne, often used for more demanding operations, is designed to provide enhanced user protection, particularly against volatile or toxic chemicals. It combines physical containment, filtration, and strict airflow control, all in accordance with specific standards such as NF EN 14175.
In contrast, the filtered fume hood, which is more compact and versatile, is an ideal solution for laboratories seeking an economical, mobile, and easy-to-install alternative. It continuously filters the air using activated carbon and/or HEPA H14 filters, without the need to be connected to an external exhaust system, making it particularly suitable for educational environments and testing laboratories. Erlab filtered fume hoods incorporate advanced technologies that ensure a high level of safety, while guaranteeing flexibility and ease of use.
The different types of laboratory fume hoods
Ducted fume hood
This model is connected to a ventilation system that expels contaminated air outside the building. It is the traditional solution, ideal for handling highly hazardous substances. However, it requires ducts and suitable infrastructure, which can lead to significant operating costs.
Recirculating fume hood
Also called a ductless fume hood, this model continuously filters the air using a system of activated carbon filters and releases purified air back into the room. It is particularly suitable for laboratories where installing an exhaust duct is not possible. At Erlab, this technology is at the core of our expertise.
How does a laboratory fume hood work?
The operation of a fume hood relies on a set of mechanisms designed to ensure user safety when handling hazardous substances. It is equipped with a glass sash that protects the operator while allowing perfect visibility and manipulation of products. Ambient air is drawn directionally into the enclosure, creating a dynamic barrier against harmful emissions. The contaminated air is then treated by an extraction or filtration system, depending on the type of fume hood, using appropriate filters such as HEPA or activated carbon filters, which can neutralize particles, vapors, or toxic gases. This process captures pollutants generated during operations immediately, significantly reducing exposure risks for personnel.
What are the applicable standards?
The use of fume hoods is governed by strict standards, the main one being NF EN 14175: a European standard that specifies the safety, performance, and testing requirements for laboratory fume hoods.
What is the price of a laboratory fume hood?
The price of a fume hood depends on several criteria:
- The type of fume hood (ducted or recirculating)
- Dimensions (from 90 to 180 cm or more)
- Integrated technology (detection, connected alerts, filtration)
- Options (sockets, LED lighting, sensors, etc.)
Indicative range: between €3,000 and €15,000, depending on the configuration.
Erlab’s ductless fume hoods are designed to offer an excellent safety-to-cost ratio, while reducing installation costs (no ducting required for recirculating models).
What options are available on filtration fume hoods?
A fume hood can be equipped with several accessories to improve comfort and safety:
- Durable work surfaces (resin, ceramic, etc.)
- Electrical outlets
- Gas and water taps
- LED lighting
- Filter saturation sensors
- Connected alert systems
Erlab models are also compatible with laboratory technical furniture, allowing for seamless integration into your workspace.
The Erlab laboratory fume hood: an advanced filtration technology
Erlab is the global leader in laboratory air filtration solutions, with over 50 years of expertise. Our fume hoods are:
Certified according to the most stringent standards.
Connected for real-time monitoring.
Eco-friendly, thanks to a no-exhaust technology.
Modular to suit your needs.
We support every client with a personalized risk assessment, tailored recommendations, and expert maintenance service.
Laboratory fume hoods: Safety & Performance
The laboratory fume hood is a vital safety element within any laboratory. By choosing a solution tailored to your needs and relying on a manufacturer like Erlab, you ensure your teams benefit from a healthy, high-performance, and sustainable working environment.
🔎 Want to learn more? Check out our recirculating fume hood catalog or contact our experts!
