Novalab Fume Cupboards
... academic series
... minimal use of PVC
... features and benefits
...
typical installation
(pdf in new window)
Specifications & Options
for Academic Series
... size, colour, other
Front Controls
...
valves
... swan
neck outlet
... bench or wall outlet
Fume Cupboards
Minimal use of PVC
At Novalab we choose not to manufacture our fume cupboards
from PVC. Most fume cupboard manufacturers in New Zealand
use PVC because it is reasonably robust and easy to fabricate.
We do not use PVC for the following reasons.
Environment.
PVC is known to produce dioxins during its manufacture and is
now considered to be a significant contributor to long term
environmental damage. Disposal of PVC is also considered a major
source of pollution.
Performance.
Certain solvents are known to attack PVC therefore limiting the
use of the fume cupboard.
PVC will begin to soften at 60c limiting its use where heating
mantles or other heat sources are concerned.
Whilst PVC will not burn easily, once it is alight, it will give
off HCl gas. This will form hydrochloric acid on contact with
water, especially in the lung linings if breathed in.
Whilst we currently have no cost effective alternatives to PVC
for the duct work, we are always looking for viable
alternatives. In the meantime, we consider our steel and
phenolic resin materials to be the best choices both in terms of
performance and the environment.
