Vertical Vs Horizontal Laminar Flow Definition Differences and Comparison
A Laminar flow cabinet is an enclosed workstation that has been utilized to create a safe work environment through filtration devices to capture everything flowing through the cabinet in biological research laboratories.
There are two main types of it which are horizontal and vertical laminar flow hood.
In a laminar-flow system, air moves at the same rate and in the same direction, with no or minimal crosswind. By contrast, turbulent low pressure affects a swirl of air, distributing contaminants onto surfaces at random and unpredictable.
Most contaminant-sensitive environments, such as healthcare facilities or clean rooms, call for laminar airflow because it reliably moves contaminants in a uniform direction, from the cleanest area near the filter face to the exit area, which could be the sash opening or the vents along the back or bottom of cabinets.
The design ensures that the most cleaned (and germ-free) zone will be in the area closest to the filter’s face, where the chore is usually done. Work is often done in that zone, close to whatever sabotages or creates turbulence.
related: microscope labeled parts and diagram
Difference Between Vertical and Horizontal Laminar Flow
| VLF | HLF |
| It directs air downward vertically. | It gives direction to air horizontally. |
| It covers a small surface area in the laboratory | It covers larger surface area than Vertical Laminar Flow. |
| Provides less room for operations. | Provides a larger operational room. |
| Chances of contamination are little to no. | Chances of contaminations are higher. |
| In most cases, it is suitable in pharmaceutical industries. | It is mostly used in industries working at macro-levels. |
| It requires very little to no repositioning for rear access due to its compact size and shape. | Repositioning is done for every time rear access is needed which is sometimes not work friendly. |
| Due to its small size there are little chances scientist’s face get harm due to accidental blow. | There are higher chances the scientist’s face get harm in case of lab accidents. |
| Microbes are transferred to a top or bottom portion of the enclosure using the machine. This equipment then filters the contaminants that float around inside it. | It blocks airborne particles, using an air-flow direction that is vertical. The HEPA filter is installed on the work surface’s back side, which Creates a clean environment in the work area. |
Horizontal Laminar Flow
A cabinet with a Horizontal laminar flow style is the best option in situations where space is limited because the fan filter module can be nested inside the cabinet.
A horizontal-flow filtration system requires much more legroom in the rear of the cabinet than a vertical-flow system, since the chambers at the back of the cabinet require clearance from the back. These requirements necessitate a deeper bench and more floor space.
Both airflow patterns provide effective sweeping action near the filter edge, their respective patterns eventually encounter blockages that often tip the scale in favor of one or the other setup. A vertical-flow cabinet is a clear obstacle.
An perforated work surface permits the laminar air flow to go through the cabinet with minimal restriction, but lips can be an issue if liquids are flowing or the work needs small parts. If you plan on working in this manner and do not want to pick up off the bottom of the products, a horizontal flow design will probably be more suitable.
Even a high-powered top may not rule out vertical flow if the tasks are carried out above the work surface. If sterile or particle-sensitive process are completed in a captivating, immaculately clean spot halfway between the work surface and the distinct range cover, a vertical flow cabinet is usually sufficient.
One simple procedure is sterile preparation, in which sterile medications or packages are prepared above, rather than on,the work surface. As long as hands and other contamination sources proceed up and down, not sideways over a sample, sensitive materials will remain clean.
In spite of the fact that air travels in a horizontal method through the laminar flow cabinet, it does not encounter very large problems due to the cabinet’s laminar airflow. Eventually, it does have an impact on the operator, however, whether they are performing a task or not.
Any toxic substances, such as buffing fluids or fine dusts, could be blown into the operator’s face. This blocking effect could interfere with productivity, but, if poisonous powders or fumes are involved, it may be a hazard to your health and safety. In such situations, it is recommended that air flow be set up as low as possible.
Vertical Laminar Flow
Vertical flow cabinets designed to resemble a cleanroom may use laminar flow for particle removal. Because they direct the flow downward, vertical flow helps sweep particles out of the area.
Microparticles may not have substantial mass, but just about all particles eventually settle on a surface or a floor of a room, and along walls they move vertically.
Vertical laminar flow hoods are frequently chosen because they resemble the design of a laminar flow clean room, during which fan filter units are usually located above the walkway. By directing laminar flow downward, vertical laminar flow increases the effect of gravity and sweeps particles out of the room, typically through a front doorway. Micro-contamination is a side effect.
Conclusion:
Laminar flow hoods are imperative to ensuring that sensitive products placed below the hood suffer little to no contamination, and are for instance utilized in the kitchen to keep oils and fats from clogging the ducts. flow hoods are offered in two different configurations: horizontal and vertical. Both configurations provide effective sweeping action throughout the work area and meet ISO Class 5 cleanliness standards, ensuring that your task will be effective at preventing unwanted contamination.
