In modern laboratories, safety is not just a standard—it’s a necessity. Whether in academic institutions, pharmaceutical production, or industrial research, professionals regularly work with hazardous substances that can pose serious risks if not properly contained. A vital component in maintaining a safe laboratory environment is the Fume cabinet, a specialized unit designed to capture, filter, and exhaust harmful fumes and vapors before they can enter the breathing zone of lab personnel.
Kewaunee Scientific Corporation, a globally respected name in laboratory furniture and containment solutions, offers a comprehensive range of high-performance fume cabinets that are engineered to meet the evolving needs of today’s laboratories. With a legacy of more than a century in laboratory safety and design, Kewaunee’s commitment to quality, innovation, and user-centric design is evident in every product it manufactures.
What is a Fume Cabinet?
A Fume cabinet—often referred to as a fume hood or chemical fume hood—is a ventilated enclosure used in laboratories to limit exposure to hazardous or toxic fumes, vapors, and dust. The cabinet works by drawing air from the laboratory into the enclosure and expelling it through an exhaust system, either directly outside or through a filtration system.
Fume cabinets are indispensable in procedures involving corrosive acids, volatile solvents, or any chemical reactions that emit harmful gases. Their primary function is to protect the user, but depending on the model and setup, they can also protect the work product and environment.
Kewaunee’s Expertise in Fume Cabinet Design
Kewaunee’s line of fume cabinets is designed with safety, performance, and user comfort in mind. Their products are trusted by clients in over 100 countries and are commonly found in government research facilities, university laboratories, biotechnology firms, and healthcare institutions.
Here are some of the key benefits that distinguish Kewaunee fume cabinets:
1. Advanced Airflow Management
Kewaunee fume cabinets utilize advanced airflow technologies to ensure that hazardous fumes are efficiently captured and expelled. The cabinets are engineered for optimal face velocity and sash movement, reducing turbulence and maintaining a consistent airflow barrier between the user and the materials inside.
2. Robust Construction
Durability is a hallmark of Kewaunee products. Their fume cabinets are built using high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials such as epoxy-coated steel and chemical-resistant liners. This ensures a long operational life even when exposed to harsh chemicals and rigorous daily use.
3. Energy Efficiency
With rising operational costs and increased focus on sustainable practices, Kewaunee integrates energy-saving technologies into its fume cabinets. Variable air volume (VAV) systems and low-flow options are available to minimize energy usage while maintaining safety and performance.
4. Ergonomic and User-Friendly Design
Kewaunee emphasizes ergonomics and ease of use. From counterbalanced sashes that open smoothly to intuitive controls and well-placed service fixtures, their cabinets are designed to enhance the workflow while minimizing user fatigue and strain.
5. Customization and Flexibility
No two labs are exactly alike, and Kewaunee understands that. The company offers a wide variety of sizes, configurations, and optional features to tailor each fume cabinet to the specific requirements of the application. Whether it’s a general-purpose cabinet or a specialty hood for perchloric acid or radioisotope work, Kewaunee can provide the perfect fit.
Applications Across Industries
Kewaunee fume cabinets are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries:
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Pharmaceuticals: Used for research, quality control, and formulation, especially when handling volatile compounds.
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Chemical Manufacturing: Essential in synthesis labs and quality testing for the safe handling of corrosive and reactive substances.
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Academia and Education: Found in teaching labs for chemistry and biology, ensuring student safety during experiments.
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Healthcare and Life Sciences: Used in pathology labs, diagnostics, and biotechnology applications involving reagent preparation and sample testing.
Meeting Global Safety Standards
Safety is non-negotiable in any laboratory environment, and Kewaunee ensures its fume cabinets comply with leading global standards, including:
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ASHRAE 110 (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) performance testing
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SEFA 1 (Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association) for chemical resistance and structural integrity
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UL 1805 certification for fume hoods
These certifications validate that Kewaunee’s products not only meet but often exceed international safety benchmarks.
Integrated Support and Service
Beyond manufacturing, Kewaunee provides end-to-end solutions—from consultation and design to installation and maintenance. The company’s global presence is backed by a network of certified dealers and service teams who ensure that every fume cabinet operates at peak efficiency throughout its lifecycle.
Additionally, Kewaunee offers periodic testing, calibration, and performance evaluations to ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety regulations.
Innovation for the Future
Kewaunee is not just keeping pace with laboratory needs—it’s setting new standards. As digital integration becomes increasingly important in lab environments, Kewaunee is incorporating smart technologies into its fume cabinets, including airflow monitoring sensors, touchscreen controls, and remote diagnostics. These innovations improve both safety and usability, making Kewaunee cabinets future-ready for smart lab ecosystems.
Conclusion
A Fume cabinet is a fundamental safety device in any laboratory working with hazardous chemicals. Choosing the right one can dramatically affect both the safety and productivity of your lab. With Kewaunee’s unmatched expertise, superior craftsmanship, and focus on innovation, their fume cabinets offer laboratories around the world a dependable and high-performing solution. Whether you’re upgrading an existing facility or building a lab from the ground up, Kewaunee stands as a trusted partner in your mission to create a safer, more efficient working environment.