An efficient exhaust fan is key to providing an effective fume cupboard that protects laboratory workers and technicians from exposure to toxic chemicals. New and existing systems must meet strict regulations with the correct exposure measures in place and yearly maintenance checks should be carried out to ensure that best performance and safety levels are maintained.
Axair work with a wide range of companies that can offer maintenance packages for full service fume cupboard checks, but for those of you who have identified an issue with the fume extraction fan in your fume cupboard system, you’ll know that you need to replace the fan.
How do you choose the right fan to suit the system?
Choosing the Right Fume Extraction Fan In some cases, existing, old and outdated systems may need replacing completely, however it is often the case where small repairs or replacements can be made to enhance the performance. One example is replacing the fume extraction fan which significantly improves the performance and extends the life of the fume cupboard.
We supply end users and manufacturers with replacement parts on a daily basis as heavily used fume systems can wear down considerable when used regularly. Installing the correct fume extraction fan that meets the exact requirements of the systems operating and performance duty is crucial for ensuring efficient fume cupboard ventilation that meets energy regulations and provides a cost-effective solution for both the manufacturer and the end user. Many of our customers simply note the product code of the SEAT Ventilation fan they are removing and contact us for a direct replacement. On alternative products that need replacing we can work with you to find the direct replacement from our range of market leading polypropylene fans.
Why are plastic fans the best choice for fume cupboards?
Polypropylene fans are the preferred choice for this type of application due to their resistance to chemical impairment. Engineers and installers choose these types of fans as their lightweight structure allows them to be carried by no more than one person through standard doorways, so they’re easy to install. Secondly manufacturers and energy conscious technicians can monitor the airflow and speed easily by integrating with simple controls such as airflow controllers or variable drives. With laboratories being such high energy consumers, installing energy efficient systems is a priority for businesses who are keen to continually reduce their overall energy consumption and carbon footprint. Integrating EC polypropylene fans into new and existing systems can reduce your fume cupboard energy consumptions up to 20% without affecting performance.
Overlooking Fume Fan Maintenance
The effectiveness of a fume cupboard can be overlooked where there is limited understanding of how a fume extraction system works. Those who don’t hold the technical knowledge of how airflow and pressure works can miss potential faults. This is particularly prevalent in the education sector where knowledge on these systems can be limited as maintenance and technician roles are so varied making it difficult to have an in-depth knowledge of each system in a laboratory.
Incorrect fan installation can result in the air flow being too low which poses the risk of toxic fumes being released into the building. Aside from safety, a fan providing too high of an airflow can be inefficient, noisy, and potentially extinguish flames during experiments making the system a costly, highly disruptive and an overall inconvenient piece of equipment. Polypropylene fans especially when mounted externally and exhausting through a tall stack into the atmosphere, have the added advantage of minimal noise emissions making them the perfect solution for fume cupboard systems in educational settings.
Custom Made Fan Packs for Schools & Universities For ease of installation, Axair provide a custom-made fan pack to suit your requirements which contains a fume extraction polypropylene fan to match your system specifications along with the necessary components required to ensure your fume cupboard system is safe and efficient. The fume extraction fan pack is designed to saves you time and money whilst also enabling a quick and easy installation.
To find out more about our custom-made fan pack start a live chat with one of our engineers at www.axair-fans.co.uk, alternatively call 01782 349 430 to discuss your requirements.
For more information on Replacing a Fan in a Fume Cupboard – Choosing the Right Plastic Fan talk to Axair Fans UK Ltd