Indispensable in the lab: the shielded fume hood for radiochemical research
Working in radiochemical laboratories and nuclear medicine quality control demands paramount safety due to exposure to vapor-emitting and radioactive substances. Therefore, selecting an appropriate shielded fume hood is crucial. But what key considerations should guide this choice?
How a shielded fume hood works
Shielded Fume Hoods are used to provide additional workspace for research and quality control. A shielded fume hood combines active airflow and passive shielding. It uses negative pressure and exhaust fans to continuously draw air and airborne contaminants away from the user and out of the lab. Simultaneously, integrated shielding (10, 35 or 50 mm) in walls, floor, and optionally the ceiling redirects radiation from radioactive substances, protecting the operator.
To enhance operator protection, a movable body shield with a lead glass window is employed. For broader lab safety, an additional frontal shield can be included. Ensuring more radiation is contained.
Smart functions and customization
Recognizing that each lab is unique, Von Gahlen offers fume hoods with different dimensions and lead thicknesses. Additional optional functions can be added to create a tailored, custom-built fume hood. Beyond safety, sustainability is a growing concern in laboratories. Our fume hoods address this with an automatic sash closure, reducing energy loss by automatically closing the window after a set period.
Advice and on-site installation
Besides functional requirements, we also consider ergonomics and customer workflow during the design of our shielded fume hoods. This includes both the process performed by our customer within the fume hood, as well as the position of the shielded fume hood in the laboratory. Smart layouts and practical solutions mean you have the flexibility every time you change use. We aim to provide guidance that extends beyond technology.
Our methodology in projects follows the V-model. This approach ensures quality at every step by continuous verification and validation of defined requirements. All equipment undergoes rigorous testing, both before and after the cabinet is installed on-site. This guarantees a safe and fully functional workspace from the moment you begin operations.
Getting started safely and efficiently
By combining precise technical specifications, intelligent features, and a layout optimized for your workflows, your laboratory will consistently achieve the highest safety standards. This empowers researchers and quality departments to work safely and efficiently every single day.
Want to know more? Visit our website and download our product sheet. Our specialists will be happy to advise you about the possibilities for your lab. Let’s connect at sales@vongahlen.com.