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19 June 2025 | The Fume Cupboard Company

Industry Insights: Matching Ductwork Materials with Fume Extraction Systems

At The Fume Cupboard Company, we understand that effective laboratory ventilation isn't just about the cabinet – it’s about the entire system. From the choice of fume cupboard to the ductwork material it connects to, every component plays a role in ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient extraction.

Below is a guide to help you choose the right ductwork material for your specific extraction system, highlighting key uses, advantages, and limitations.

1. Ducted Fume Cupboards

Used for: Handling aggressive chemicals, solvents, high-volume fume loads, and long-term continuous use.

Suitable Ductwork Materials:

  • PVC / CPVC – For non-flammable acid/alkali fumes
  • PP or PVDF – For highly corrosive or high-purity environments
  • Stainless Steel (304/316) – For flammable solvents or ATEX zones
  • GRP / Vinyl Ester Resin – For heavy industrial chemical processes

Advantages:

  • High face velocity
  • Effective removal of harmful vapours to atmosphere
  • Compatible with a wide range of chemicals

Limitations:

  • Requires full duct routing to atmosphere
  • Material compatibility must match fume type

2. Recirculating (Ductless) Fume Cupboards

Used for: Light-duty chemistry, teaching labs, and low-hazard organics

Typical Ducting: None – Filters air internally

Paired Materials (Housing, Not Ducts):

  • Mild Steel or PP for casing
  • Carbon/HEPA filters based on application

Advantages:

  • Plug-and-play installation
  • No ductwork required
  • Energy-efficient

Limitations:

  • Limited to specific fume types
  • Requires ongoing filter monitoring and replacement

3. Perchloric Acid Fume Cupboards

Used for: Perchloric acid digestion, oxidising reactions

Suitable Ductwork Materials:

  • PVC / PP (for low-temp systems)
  • Stainless Steel 316 (best practice, corrosion-resistant)
  • GRP with vinyl ester resin lining

Advantages:

  • Internal wash-down system to prevent residue
  • Designed for explosive/corrosive safety

Limitations:

  • Requires specialist ducting and scrubbers
  • Expensive to install and maintain

4. Radioisotope Fume Cupboards

Used for: Handling radiopharmaceuticals or radioactive powders

Suitable Ductwork Materials:

  • Stainless Steel (due to decontamination and shielding)
  • Mild Steel (coated) for non-critical runs

Advantages:

  • Integrated lead shielding
  • Complies with IRR17 and decontamination protocols

Limitations:

  • Expensive shielding materials
  • Complex maintenance and disposal protocols

5. LEV Extraction Arms

Used for: Soldering, gluing, 3D printing, spot extraction, light-duty fumes/dusts

Suitable Ductwork Materials:

  • Flexible Aluminium Ducting – Low-cost, mobile setups
  • PVC-Coated Fabric Hose – Lightweight and flexible
  • TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) – For abrasive dust or fumes
  • PP / PVC – For fixed, more durable arm systems

Advantages:

  • Flexible and adjustable
  • Ideal for point-source capture
  • Simple to install and reposition

Limitations:

  • Not suitable for high airflow or corrosive fumes
  • Requires careful filter matching

Final Thoughts

Every extraction system has its own performance demands and safety requirements. Choosing the right ductwork material ensures:

  • Chemical compatibility
  • Long-term durability
  • System compliance with HSG258, COSHH, and industry standards

At The Fume Cupboard Company, we deliver turnkey extraction solutions — from consultation and design to installation and testing — using the materials and configurations that best fit your environment.

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