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Successful Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for Shielded Fume Hoods

23-03-26, 13:33

In mid-December, we welcomed the SCK CEN team, based in Mol, Belgium, who visited our headquarters in Zevenaar for the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) of three new Shielded Fume Hoods (SFH).

As one of Belgium's largest research centers, SCK CEN develops innovative nuclear applications for a better world. Driven by science, innovation, and world-renowned infrastructure.

In addition to producing medical radioisotopes, SCK CEN is evolving into a player in radiopharmaceuticals for preclinical research. They are also active in pilot production of new radiopharmaceuticals for cancer therapies, including their own cancer research lines. 

The contract was awarded via public tender, and Von Gahlen executed the project. The three shielded fume hoods will be deployed in their brand-new Centralized Radiochemical Facility (CRF). At this GMP facility, SCK CEN will isolate radioisotopes for cancer treatment through a radiochemical process. The focus is mainly on producing lutetium-177, but the facility can also process new, promising isotopes. Starting in 2027, SCK CEN will gradually build toward short-term lutetium production for 15,000 patients and long-term production for 100,000 patients. Von Gahlen mechanics will install the fume hoods in the QC lab of the CRF. 

Using these hoods, the team will safely perform quality control on radiopharmaceuticals. The hoods shield the operator and protect against radiation during sample preparations and analysis.

The FAT (Factory Acceptance Test, which checks that equipment meets requirements before delivery) was conducted for one Shielded Fume Hood with 50 mm lead shielding, type 1600, and two Shielded Fume Hoods with 50 mm lead shielding, type 1300.

In general, Von Gahlen shielded Fume Hoods are used to provide additional workspace for research and quality control. Simultaneously, integrated shielding (10, 35, or 50 mm) in walls and floors redirects radiation from radioactive substances, protecting the operator. The fume hood is connected to the building's ventilation system, with the exhaust fan located there. The customer's HVAC system provides the airflow.

Operator protection is enhanced with a movable body shield. This shield features 10, 35, or 50 mm of lead shielding, incorporating a lead glass window with equivalent lead shielding. For broader lab safety, an additional frontal stationary barrier can be included. The frontal stationary barrier is equipped with 50 mm of lead shielding to better contain radiation. 

During the FAT, our customer and Von Gahlen engineers check all aspects of the shielded fume hoods. This ensures they comply with the functional design specifications. It also ensures that all functionalities are correctly installed and operate, as required. 

Throughout the entire process, Theo Neuteboom served as the project manager. Jelmer Tiemessen acted as the lead engineer. The SCK team found the communication positive. Questions were answered promptly. Whenever issues arose, there was always an attempt to find a solution.

The FAT consisted of:

  • Test Instrument Data
  • System Documentation Verification
  • Construction Design Verification
  • Main Equipment Specification Verification
  • Functionality/Interlocks Verification
Marijke Geerts, SCK CEN: “The FAT at Von Gahlen’s location was found to be positive, the protocol was well prepared and submitted on time. This allowed us to prepare ourselves thoroughly and understand how the FAT quality control process would be conducted. This was greatly appreciated. The planning was good, and the product was delivered early instead of late.”

The team members were already familiar with Von Gahlen from a previous product installation. Our project methodology follows the V-model, a proven and familiar approach for them. This method ensures quality at every step by continuous verification and validation of defined requirements.

SCK CEN in Belgium has already received our products. After dismantling, two technicians travelled to Mol to assemble the products, perform the Site Acceptance Test (SAT), and perform the official handover.

If you are interested in learning more about our hot cells or fume hoods, or if you would like advice tailored to your needs, please reach out to our sales team at sales@vongahlen.com. We look forward to supporting your project.

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Factory Acceptance Test with SCK CEN at Von Gahlen in Zevenaar