Ducted Laboratory Fume Hoods for Safe & Controlled Exhaust Ventilation
Ducted fume hoods are engineered to provide reliable containment of hazardous vapors, chemicals, gases, and particulates through dedicated exhaust systems. Designed for high-performance laboratories that require strict air-quality control, these hoods align with UL 1805, SEFA 1, NFPA 45, ANSI/AIHA Z9.5, and ANSI/ASHRAE 110 performance guidelines.
For applications requiring personnel and environmental protectionโas opposed to chemical vapor containmentโexplore our
Biological Safety Cabinets. When hard-ducting is not feasible, consider our ductless fume hood alternatives.
These systems incorporate high-efficiency exhaust blowers, robust construction, and ergonomic design. Available widths typically range from 48 to 96 inches, with walk-in configurations available for larger applications. Face velocities generally fall between 50 and 125 ft/min depending on sash position and airflow control strategy. Integrate with environmental monitoring systems for continuous performance verification.
Ideal for chemistry, pharmaceutical, clinical, and educational environments, ducted hoods integrate directly into a facility's exhaust infrastructure and support both constant-air-volume (CAV) and variable-air-volume (VAV) systems for stable, energy-efficient performance. For cGMP pharmaceutical manufacturing and research laboratory applications, proper containment is essential for regulatory compliance.
Key Selection Factors for Ducted Fume Hoods
- Exhaust Configuration & Ducting: Confirm whether 100% exhaust or partial recirculation meets your safety codes and chemical requirements. For portable or non-ducted solutions, review our ductless fume hood options.
- Face Velocity & Sash Design: Ensure proper containment with recommended face velocities (commonly 80โ100 ft/min) and ergonomic sash heights for safe operation. Consider vented balance enclosures for weighing volatile substances.
- Construction Materials: Select interior liners and work surfaces that match your chemical resistance needs, durability expectations, and cleaning and decontamination procedures.
- Energy Efficiency & VAV Compatibility: Consider hoods designed for low-flow or VAV operation to reduce building exhaust loads and energy consumption while maintaining safety performance.
- Serviceability & Certification: Verify access for blower service, duct connections, filter checks, and annual certification to maintain compliance. Implement continuous monitoring for real-time airflow verification.
- Facility Integration: Account for hood depth, utility connections (gas, vacuum, electrical), airflow monitors, and compatibility with your building's exhaust system. Complement with appropriate laboratory tables and storage solutions for complete workspace design.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ducted Fume Hoods
What is a ducted fume hood and when should it be used?
A ducted fume hood removes hazardous fumes by exhausting air directly outdoors. It is the preferred choice for work involving volatile chemicals, toxic gases, or procedures requiring stable and continuous airflow management. For applications where ducting is impractical or not required, explore our ductless fume hoods. For biological containment needs, consider biological safety cabinets.
How do I choose the right face velocity and sash height?
Standard chemical applications typically require 80โ100 ft/min face velocity. Correct sash height ensures proper containment without causing turbulence or user strain. Use environmental monitoring equipment to verify and document face velocity performance during certification and routine audits.
What energy-saving features should I look for?
Consider hoods compatible with VAV systems, high-efficiency blowers, low-flow designs, and systems that reduce exhaust volume when the sash is closed or idle. These features can significantly reduce operational costs while maintaining safety performance in modern laboratory facilities.
How often does a ducted fume hood require certification?
Certification is recommended at installation, after any relocation or repair, and annually. Tests typically include airflow measurements, containment evaluations, and face velocity verification. Between certifications, maintain proper decontamination protocols and consider continuous environmental monitoring systems for ongoing quality assurance.
Can an existing ducted hood be upgraded for low-flow or VAV operation?
Many systems can be retrofitted with VAV controls, improved blowers, or optimized bypass designs to support low-flow operation. Compatibility depends on hood design and facility infrastructure. For comprehensive clean air and containment solutions, consult with our team to evaluate upgrade options and ensure continued regulatory compliance for cGMP or research applications.
