Space is in high demand in a laboratory, especially when scientists juggle multiple experiments or tasks simultaneously. A reliable and durable laboratory bench can help save space and promote effective, safe, and accurate work. Depending on the intended use, a lab bench can come in various models, types, and sizes. Here is some information about the most common types of lab benches:
Chemical Fume Hoods
The design of chemical fume hood lab benches allows them to contain chemicals, dust, and fumes released during experiments. This helps protect laboratory staff from exposure to toxic chemicals. A fume hood draws the surrounding air into the chamber and then filters the air through charcoal carbon filters that remove the harmful particles from the air. This type of lab bench is suited for laboratories that regularly use dangerous chemicals and gases that need to be harnessed and safely contained.
Biological Safety Cabinets
These benches offer an enclosed workspace designed to provide maximum protection for laboratory staff members working with contaminated materials. This type of lab bench is usually used in scientific work that requires personnel to come in contact with pathogenic microorganisms, which can be hazardous to laboratory researchers. Biological safety cabinets have a vertical laminar flow that contains pathogens within the cabinet. This helps to prevent pathogens from spreading to lab personnel. The laminar airflow can also help to prevent biological samples from becoming contaminated by other substances within the lab environment.
Balance Tables
The design of a balance table bench allows it to provide a stable working area that reduces the effects of vibrations. Balance tables usually incorporate vibration-dampening materials such as rubber or foam. Some even have air suspension systems. This type of lab bench can be ideal for situations where scientists need precision measurements for testing, weighing, and balancing. Balance tables come in different sizes and configurations to suit different lab needs.
Microbiology Lab Benches
These benches are made of stainless steel and have a smooth surface to prevent bacterial growth. The stainless steel surface is easy to clean and disinfect, helping experiments remain contamination-free. Microbiology benches are also equipped with built-in hand sinks and fume hoods to prevent the release of potentially harmful microorganisms. These benches are suitable for research tasks and educational training on sterilization and microbiology techniques.
Mobile Benches
Mobile benches have wheels to promote easy movement around the laboratory. Their design allows them to fit into tight spaces in the lab. Due to their mobility, they can be shared between lab staff members, making them an efficient use of lab space. You can use mobile benches in lab areas that require frequent changes in a workspace or sharing of equipment.
Adjustable-height Benches
The design of adjustable-height benches makes them a good choice for work that involves repetitive sitting and standing throughout the day. Often used by scientists who deal with various instruments and microscopes, these benches can be adjusted to accommodate changes in posture or work position. They are also helpful for lab personnel who work long hours as they can help reduce the risk of back pain.
Instrument Benches
These benches help keep various instruments organized and accessible to the nearby dedicated workspace. Instrument benches can be customized to the user’s needs and often have built-in storage areas for specific tools. Most instrument benches have power outlets, cable management solutions, and cooling vents.
General-purpose Lab Benches
General-purpose benches are highly versatile, and scientists can customize them depending on their lab’s needs. These benches can be customized to include power outlets, sink units, shelving areas, cabinets, keyboard platforms, computer arms, and more.
Choose the Best Benches for Your Laboratory
Having the right laboratory bench for your work can help promote smooth, accurate, and efficient processes and results. With a specialized or customized bench, researchers can boost their productivity, reduce the potential for accidental injuries and contamination, and perform their experiments safely and confidently.
