Undergraduate Laboratories

Transforming the control and capability of individually ducted and manifold fume cupboards

The Challenge

The challenges of controlling manifold systems

In late 2011, TPE was approached by Beca Consulting to provide a fan pre-selection for a concept design for the University of Auckland. The project clearly presented a significant challenge, with a lot of fume cupboards in a relatively small area, plus a resource consent condition that required exhaust discharge on the other side of the building.

Their interest in a project involving 34 individually ducted fume cupboards and four manifold systems, each with six fume cupboards. While the individual cupboards were familiar territory, the manifold systems presented a unique challenge. Despite the urgency of the project, TPE was able to work with Beca and others to design, prototype, test, manufacture, and install the solution in under a year.

The Solution

Rethinking control of individually ducted fume cupboards

Using innovative design and development we updated Auckland University’s fume cupboards to achieve better performance, efficiency and easier setup.

The fume cupboards were enhanced to improve their performance. Highly accurate velocity sensors were installed at the front of the cupboards, enabling the installation of a low velocity alarm each fume cupboards, regardless of their ducting. The controls were upgraded to detect and address unplanned low velocity conditions, minimizing disruptions to experiments.

To streamline the setup and adjustment of control aspects, a new commissioning system was developed, which is available with all EcoAir® III controllers. This system offers the flexibility to choose between individual duct or manifold modes, providing future modification capabilities and investment protection.

At a glance

Energy savings

30 % saving in install costs, reducing flue numbers to the roof and gives ongoing savings in operating and maintenance costs

Product specifications

EcoAir3 and other TPE products were used in this project. For more details email us at sales@thermoplastic.co.nz

It has been very rewarding working with TPE. They have a great aptitude for seeking innovative solutions.

Building to meet code and specific user requirements can be challenging and conflicting, yet TPE have always risen to these challenges. The fume cupboards operate well, sashes lift and drop smoothly, taps and valves are accessible and the fume cupboard fascia columns and base are aerodynamically designed to minimise pressure loss whilst maximising containment. I would will be recommending TPE for future laboratory projects.

Ann Cooke

University of Auckland, Project Manager

Other Cases Studies

TPE products are the benchmark for quality, innovation and efficiency in the industry

We’ve been at the cutting edge of fume cupboard innovation for professional laboratories for over 30 years. Our products are benchmarked internationally to ensure that our solutions rate amongst the best for design, quality, safety, and price.

Our proven fume extraction products have been installed across Australasia and we are excited to be able to offer our products to worldwide customers.

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