Manifolding laboratory exhaust systems.

Author(s) : BELL G. C.

Type of article: Article, Review

Summary

With the relatively recent changes to AS/NZS 2243.8, it has become far more acceptable for designers to assess manifolding of
laboratory exhaust systems during the early stages of a building's development. While manifolding existed in some other laboratory exhaust systems types, the scale of fume cupboard systems offered more opportunity to the designer, to the point where it is typically included in options analysis in the early phases of design. A key requirement, however, is a detailed risk assessment, undertaken in conjunction with the end users, to document the likely chemicals, their concentrations and the combined dilutions created. This risk assessment process provides critical input into system configuration .

The Labs 21 best practice guide provides a good description and argument for assessing these opportunities. The key driver behind this type of system configuration is typically energy, however, AS/NZS 2243.8 suggests that plume dispersion should be addressed beyond the minimums nominated and manifolded systems represent a robust option when presented with a challenging campus of buildings.

The guide also provides a framework for designing effective systems, and this body of work can be applied beyond just fume cupboard systems. Australian laboratories typically include laboratory exhausts as required by AS/NZS 2982 for local exhaust ventilation aimed at capturing contamination at its source. Provided the likely contaminants are understood and the system collects compatible substances, the systems can be configured as a manifold to limit the number of required exhaust systems in a space. Other more detailed applications can be found in the AS/NZS 2243 .10 requirements for ventilation of chemical storage cabinets. Although subject to a risk assessment, the collective dilution achieved with a manifold system can aid the management of hazardous zones within ductwork.

Perhaps the one area that does require a little further homework for designers of this style of system is the control valves required to ensure a manifold system delivers the required flow ranges within the relevant areas of the system. There are a number of valves available to the Australian market suitable for this application, and they have distinct characteristics. Understanding the requirements of the valve from the system, the response rate of the valve and the chemical resistance of the valve components is essential for creating a robust design and the required system performance.

Available documents

Format PDF

Pages: 90-98

Available

  • Public price

    20 €

  • Member price*

    15 €

* Best rate depending on membership category (see the detailed benefits of individual and corporate memberships).

Details

  • Original title: Manifolding laboratory exhaust systems.
  • Record ID : 30023922
  • Languages: English
  • Source: EcoLibrium - vol. 17 - n. 4
  • Publication date: 2018/05

Links


See other articles in this issue (1)
See the source