Case study
Bespoke Fume Cupboard
Containment of solvent dispensing activities and solvent processing OSD equipment
Posted:
Challenge
Our client required two bespoke walk in fume cupboards including concealed HEPA filtration and specialist services as part of a new non-GMP pilot plant.
The intention of the plant is to support other GMP manufacturing facilities by providing a space to replicate and troubleshoot supply issues those plants are having in a non-GMP environment.
The Fume Cupboard required:
- Stainless Steel for both internal and external components.
- A precise 2.7m internal and 3.0m external wide radius profile.
- The external environment needs to remain non-hazardous.
- Incorporation of integral safety features to the Fume Cupboard.
These requirements posed significant challenges in terms of design precision, material handling, and integration of multiple features within a safety-critical environment.
Solution
To address these challenges, the project team at Howorth Air Technology implemented the following solutions:
- Advanced fabrication techniques to achieve precise dimensions and a wide radius profile.
- Engaged safety engineers to ensure the design met Class 1, Div. 2 standards for the internal environment.
- Designed the external components to be non-hazardous, ensuring user safety.
- Integrated safety features like LED lighting and a sprinkler cut-out without compromising the structural integrity of the hood.
- Implemented modular design principles to incorporate the portable worktop and control system seamlessly.
- 304L stainless steel safechange filter housing including Pre Filter and H14 HEPA filter
Outcome
The fume cupboard passed the static Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) without issues. Established a benchmark for future fume cupboard designs in terms of safety, functionality, and documentation.
Strengthened Howorth Air Technology's reputation in bespoke high-quality equipment manufacturing.
Following completion of the first model the Fume Cupboard was shipped to the US and a successful SAT test was carried out at the client’s factory.
The project successfully met all specified requirements and objectives and this facility will successfully provide a space for experimentation of new processes, products and technology.