Airflows in and around linear downflow 'safety' cabinets
Clark, R.P.; Mullan, B.J.
Journal of Applied Bacteriology 45(1): 131-135
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-8847 PMID: 701201 Document Number: 134854
Schlieren photography was used to visualize the airflows in and around 3 re-circulating linear downflow cabinets. There is an air bulge at the front opening that allows air from within the cabinet to spill out towards the operator. Hand movements within, and activity just outside, cause air to be expelled from these cabinets. Bunsen burners within the cabinets destroy the linear nature of the downflowing air streams. The operator protection afforded by these cabinets may be much less than is generally recognized.