Unlike a vertical flow hood, a horizontal flow configuration hood will require additional rear clearance to allow air to enter the enclosure. Since the fan and filters sit at the top of the unit the flow hood can be installed on a standard lab bench. Laboratories with limited floor space may want to go with a vertical configuration. A vertical flow helps move micro-contaminates onto the work surface or the laboratory floor, eliminating contaminants from floating around inside the enclosure. Particles not captured by the filters are pushed out through front access area of the unit. Things to consider before purchasing a flow hood is the direction the air should flow, operator safety, clearance requirements, work surface required.įans and filters are positioned at the top of a vertical configuration hood. A vertical flow hood will move air from the top of the unit through filters and down to the work surface. A horizontal flow hood will move air from the back of the unit through HEPA or ULPA filters and to the front of the work surface. Laminar flow hoods are available in horizontal or vertical airflow configurations. Airborne contamination is filtered through HEPA (filter 99.99% 0.3µm) or ULPA (99.999% filters providing the cleanest work area. Air flows in a uniform direction with a constant speed within the enclosed bench with little to no crossover air streams. Laminar flow hoods are designed to protect samples and parts from particulate contamination. Horizontal vs Vertical Laminar Flow Hoods

Economical horizontal laminar flow hood