Introduction
Laboratory extraction arms are flexible, articulated arms designed to capture fumes and other airborne contaminants, such as dust and smoke, from a variety of laboratory processes. They are typically used in scientific, medical, and industrial laboratories to keep workers safe by removing potentially hazardous airborne particles from their breathing zones. Extraction arms are an important tool in protecting laboratory personnel from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous chemicals, dust, and fumes.
The arms are typically constructed from durable materials, such as stainless steel, and are designed to move freely in three dimensions. This allows the arm to be adjusted to capture contaminants from any angle. The arms are often connected to a fume extractor, which is a device that uses suction or a fan to draw in contaminated air and filter it. The filtered air is then released outside of the laboratory, keeping the workspace clean and safe.
Types of Laboratory Extraction Arms
There are several types of laboratory extraction arms available, each designed to meet different needs. The most common types are articulated arms, telescopic arms, and flexible arms.
Articulated Arms
Articulated arms are designed with multiple joints and are the most versatile type of extraction arm. They can bend in any direction, allowing them to be adjusted to capture contaminants from any angle. Articulated arms are often used in large laboratories where contaminants may come from multiple sources. They are also well-suited for use in small spaces where a telescopic arm may not be able to reach.
Telescopic Arms
Telescopic arms are designed with one joint and are typically used in small laboratories. They are adjustable and can be extended to reach contaminants from a variety of angles. They are often used in tight spaces and can be easily moved out of the way when not in use.
Flexible Arms
Flexible arms are designed with a flexible tube and are used in areas where an articulated or telescopic arm may not be able to reach. They can be bent and shaped to fit into tight spaces and are often used in laboratories where there is limited space.
Fume Extractor Arms
Fume extractor arms are designed to connect to a fume extractor and are used to capture and filter contaminated air. They are typically connected to a fume hood or other device that is designed to capture and filter contaminated air. The arm is adjustable and can be extended to reach contaminants from a variety of angles.
Advantages of Laboratory Extraction Arms
Laboratory extraction arms are a valuable tool for protecting laboratory personnel from hazardous airborne particles. They are designed to capture contaminants from any angle, allowing them to be used in a variety of laboratory environments. They are also adjustable and can be extended to reach contaminants in tight spaces. Furthermore, they are typically easy to install and can be connected to a fume extractor to capture and filter contaminated air.
Disadvantages of Laboratory Extraction Arms
Laboratory extraction arms can be expensive and require regular maintenance in order to remain effective. They are also limited in the type of contaminants they can capture, as they are not designed to capture particles that are too large or too small. Furthermore, they may not be able to capture some of the more volatile chemicals, such as solvents and acids.
Conclusion
Laboratory extraction arms are an important tool for protecting laboratory personnel from hazardous airborne particles. They are typically easy to install and can be adjusted to capture contaminants from any angle. They are also typically connected to a fume extractor to capture and filter contaminated air. However, they can be expensive and require regular maintenance in order to remain effective. Furthermore, they may not be able to capture some of the more volatile chemicals. For these reasons, it is important to choose the right type of extraction arm for the job.