Validating the glove box, Summary of performance testing results – Labconco Precise HEPA-Filtered Glove Boxes 5220231 User Manual
Page 18
Chapter 3: Getting Started
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14
Validating the Glove Box
The Precise HEPA-Filtered Glove Box has been leak tested at the factory for
HEPA filter and main chamber pressure integrity. The HEPA filters should
be leak checked upon start-up and annually thereafter per the procedure in
Chapter 6. Upon start up, the main chamber pressure should be greater
than 0.7" w.g. at full blower speed to validate proper blower operation;
if not, contact Labconco for service.
NOTE: Main chamber pressure and smoke removal tests
should be performed frequently, per your established
quality system, to ensure safe performance.
Summary of Performance Testing Results
Labconco’s test results show that the Precise HEPA-Filtered Glove Box
meets all the performance criteria when operated at the following estimated
airflow volumes: 61 CFM or less for weighing with an analytical balance or
handling powders and 61 CFM or above for safe air clean up. The Precise
HEPA-Filtered Glove Box has been tested to the point of insufficient
performance. In each case, the lack of performance occurred at airflow
volumes below Labconco’s minimum recommended airflow volume for the
specific operation. Contact Labconco or visit
www.labconco.com
for
complete performance test data. The following provides a brief summary of
the findings:
• Smoke removal was tested at minimum 13-CFM to maximum 100-CFM
airflow volumes. The time required to completely purge the main
chamber of smoke varied from approximately 75 seconds at 100-CFM, to
420 seconds at 13-CFM.
• During tracer gas containment tests with the glove box vented to the
outside, no gas was detected within the operator’s breathing zone.
Perimeter scans were also conducted during tracer gas testing of the
Precise HEPA-Filtered Glove Box. Under normal laboratory conditions
the tracer gas levels detected during perimeter scan testing were below
ASHRAE 110 permissible limits (0.10 PPM average or less) and
achieved Labconco permissible limits (0.05 PPM average or less).
• Sound levels “Noise Pressure” varied from 44 dB(A) at 13-CFM to 71
dB(A) at 100 CFM. If vented to the outside, the sound level will be
greatly reduced.
• Airborne particulate cleanliness (measured under positive and negative
pressures) within the main chamber of the glove box exceeded ISO Class
5 conditions (equivalent to Class 100) and achieved ISO Class 3
conditions (equivalent to Class 1) at both minimum and maximum
operational airflow volumes.
• Glove box fluorescent lamp light levels “illumination” (measured across
the work surface) averaged 29.9 foot candles with room lights turned off
!