1. What is a Vertical Laminar Flow Clean Bench?
A vertical laminar flow clean bench is an air purification device that provides a local high-cleanliness working environment. Its operation principle:
- The fan draws in external air.
- Air passes through a primary filter and a high-efficiency HEPA filter.
- Filtered air is delivered vertically into the work area as laminar flow.
This creates a sterile workspace, preventing contamination during experiments, manufacturing, or research.
Applications:
- Biological laboratories: Sterile environment for microbial culture, cell manipulation, and other sensitive experiments.
- Electronics manufacturing: Protects precision components from dust and impurities.
- Medical & healthcare: Drug preparation and packaging.
- Food processing: Maintains hygiene and prevents contamination.
2. Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- High cleanliness: Vertical laminar airflow prevents external contaminants, often achieving Class 100 cleanliness.
- Convenient operation: Spacious work area allows easy handling with a wide field of view.
- Safety: Reduces risk of harmful gas or microorganism spread, protecting operators.
Disadvantages
- High energy consumption: Fans and filtration systems run continuously.
- High maintenance cost: HEPA filters need regular replacement.
- Environmental sensitivity: Surrounding dust or humidity can affect performance and filter lifespan.
3. Wind Speed Measurement in Vertical Laminar Flow Clean Benches
Wind speed is critical for performance:
- Too low: Ineffective at preventing contamination.
- Too high: Creates turbulence, affecting work and increasing energy use.
Measurement method:
- Pre-run equipment for 30 minutes to stabilize airflow.
- Divide workbench surface into grid points (typically 50mm × 50mm).
- Measure with a hot-bulb or digital anemometer at 100–150mm above the surface.
- Calculate average wind speed (generally 0.25–0.5 m/s).
4. Precautions for Using the Clean Bench
- Clean and disinfect the work area before use (75% alcohol recommended).
- Wear clean lab clothing, gloves, and masks.
- Avoid blocking airflow with objects; leave space between items.
- Do not insert your head into the work area.
- Keep the front window at proper height to maintain laminar flow.
- Regularly maintain the fan and filters; replace filters when resistance exceeds specifications.
- After use, turn off power, clean the bench, and record usage.
5. Maintenance Tips
- Inspect filters, fans, and airflow regularly.
- Clean surfaces using approved disinfectants.
- Avoid abrasive tools that can damage surfaces.
- Store equipment in clean, dry conditions when not in use.
The vertical laminar flow clean bench is essential for clean production and experiments in laboratories, electronics manufacturing, healthcare, and more. Correct usage, maintenance, and understanding of its principles ensure a reliable, sterile environment, maximizing the equipment’s performance and lifespan.