Laminar Flow FAQs

Laminar Flow is a type of fluid flow in which the velocity, pressure, and other flow properties at each point in the fluid remain constant. The fluid travels smoothly or in regular paths.

Laminar flows, which involve fluid particles moving smoothly and orderly in parallel layers, is widely used, where precise management of fluid dynamics are essential. Industries that rely on laminar flows for tasks include: Semiconductor Manufacturing (Cleanrooms), Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Microfluidics, Medical Devices, Environmental Monitoring, and Food and Beverage Production.

The notion of laminar flow entails fluid particles’ capacity to glide along a seamless trajectory, with each layer moving in parallel to the next.

In a vertical laminar airflow system, the fan facilitates the intake of ambient air from the device’s upper section. This air traverses a filter pad, capturing dust particles. Subsequently, the air progresses through a HEPA filter, effectively removing microbes and other particles. The purified air makes contact with the enclosure and sweeps across the work surface, eliminating suspended microbes and particles.

In research laboratories, particularly in industries such as semiconductors, precision and accurate results are paramount. Even the slightest contamination in the air can introduce millions of microbes, posing a significant threat to the integrity of experiments and processes. Therefore, maintaining a sterile and filtered air environment is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of operations.

Laminar flow systems offer distinct advantages in this regard. Unlike conventional airflow systems, which can introduce turbulence (turbulent airflow) and create disturbances in the sterile environment, laminar flow systems ensure that air moves smoothly and uniformly in a single direction. This cohesive airflow minimizes the risk of external contaminants settling on surfaces where delicate processes are being carried out, thus preserving the accuracy and reliability of experimental outcomes.

There are two types of the Laminar flow system differentiated on flow pattern,

Horizontal Laminar Flow System:
It is also called a crossflow system. The working area is supplied with air through a HEPA filter installed on the rear side of the cabinet. Typically, the airflow direction is from rear to front glass sash, and the system cannot operate unless the front glass sash is opened.
  
Vertical Laminar Flow System:
It is also called a downflow system. Here the air is introduced into the working area via a HEPA filter installed atop the cabinet and exits the enclosure’s front following contact with the work surface. 

To select the best suitable laminar flow cabinet, you must have to consider these factors.

Air flow Pattern:

Select a horizontal laminar flow hood when your requirements include:
– Minimizing airflow turbulence on the work surface.
– Utilizing primarily small items and utensils on the work surface.

Requiring enhanced contamination control.
Select a vertical laminar flow hood when your needs involve:
– Utilizing larger equipment on the work surface.
– Handling fine powders on the work surface.
– Requiring a taller or larger workspace.
– Vertical laminar flow hoods are also suitable for toxic gas producing operations.

Application & Cleanness Level:
Cleanliness and sterility requirements differ based on the application. Take into account the specific task at hand, whether it involves sample preparation, cell culture, electronics assembly, or pharmaceutical compounding. Depending on the task, the necessary type of laminar flow cabinet may vary. Select a cabinet with an ISO class that matches the sensitivity level of the work being performed.

Working Equipment:
When choosing your laminar flow hood, it’s important to consider vibration. Some process equipment generates significant vibration, which can be amplified in tabletop units. Therefore, you’ll need to decide between tabletop-mounted or floor-mounted flow hoods based on your vibration tolerance.

Space Availability:
Another crucial consideration when selecting your laminar flow hood is space. Does the hood offer sufficient workspace? Can you accommodate large process equipment? It’s important to ensure that the workspace beneath the hood isn’t overly congested, as this can impede the hood’s overall effectiveness by obstructing airflow.

Both HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) and ULPA  (Ultra Low Penetration Air)  filters have their own importance, depending upon the required cleanliness level.

ULPA filters are engineered to eliminate a significant portion of airborne particles as air flows through them. These filters are capable of capturing even finer particles, frequently as small as 0.12 microns or less. This rigorous filtration capability guarantees that the air entering the laminar flow system remains devoid of contaminants, establishing a pristine and precisely controlled environment for delicate procedures. It has efficiency of 99.99% and gives a minimum of ISO-4 standard.

While a HEPA filter typically removes 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size and can achieve a ISO-4 standard. Ensuring a clean environment suitable for various applications, including pharmaceutical production, electronics manufacturing, and laboratory research.

Laminar Flow
Laminar flow refers to the motion of fluid particles along clearly defined paths or streamlines, where these streamlines remain straight and parallel to each other.

Turbulent Flow
Turbulent flow is characterized by the chaotic and irregular movement of fluid particles, involving swirling and unpredictable patterns within the flow.

To maintain cleanliness and ensure the proper functioning of the cabinet, it is imperative to consider the following factors.

Filter Replacement: Replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or as indicated by pressure drop measurements. This helps maintain the efficiency of the filtration system and ensures proper air quality within the laminar flow hood.

Clean Work Surface: Regularly clean the work surface and interior surfaces of the laminar flow hood using an appropriate disinfectant or cleaning solution to eliminate dust, particles, and microbial contaminants. Utilize lint-free wipes or clean, non-shedding cloths to prevent the introduction of further contaminants.

Sterilize Tools and Equipment: Sterilize any tools, equipment, or materials used within the laminar flow hood before and after each use to prevent contamination. 

Vertical laminar flow cabinets offer a contamination-free environment crucial for maintaining test reliability across various production scales. Here’s why they’re essential:

Precision Control: By generating ISO 5 sterile air filtered through H14 HEPA filters, vertical laminar flow cabinets ensure meticulous control over airflow, crucial for sensitive operations.

Versatility in Scale: From small-scale desktop units like the Vertical Laminar Flows 100D to large-scale cabinets like the Vertical Laminar Flow Cabinets-400P, there’s a model to suit every production scale, whether it’s for research and development or large-scale manufacturing.

Customizable Options: With different models tailored to specific needs, including single or dual operator setups and varying airflow directions, users have the flexibility to choose a configuration that best fits their workflow requirements.

Advanced Features: Each model comes equipped with features like intelligent multi-level adjustable wind speed control, high-efficiency filters, UV sterilization lamps, and built-in multi-purpose sockets, enhancing efficiency and convenience.

Whether you’re a researcher in need of a compact solution or a large-scale manufacturer requiring robust contamination control, our Vertical Laminar Flow Cabinets provide the reliability and performance you demand. Explore our range of models to find the perfect fit for your production needs.