Mass spectrometry systems continue to evolve as the demand for better, more effective biotech operations rises. Laboratories can use MS benches to house these dynamic and bulky systems for easy storage and use. Here are six characteristics of a functional and unique MS bench:
1. Intuitive
An MS lab bench’s basic layout and features set it apart from the rest. If the bench is for mass spectrometry, it should address all your needs in that area. MS Lab benches can be designed to hold your equipment and meet extra functional and aesthetic needs.
Unique bench features are designed with the purpose in mind. An example is the cable management feature which may address concerns about access and safety. Castered mobility with total-locking capability can also support any need to reorganize lab space and service the equipment.
2. Scalable
Improved research and development space is becoming more expensive, which may prevent growth beyond initial development. Many bio-tech and bio-med businesses need help with renovating their spaces and extending their business activities. They can use an innovative lab bench to address these issues.
An MS lab bench with a bi-level solution can accommodate the mass spectrometer and all its auxiliaries, such as:
- HPLC
- CPU
- Autosampler
- Keyboard
- Printer
Depending on the particular situation, an MS bench should help reduce the normal linear footprint by up to 40%. This means more room for upscaling the business.
3. Mobile
The ideal lab bench should have an innovative design that allows mobility and flexibility for the system’s organization. You need easy access to the surfaces for sample preparation, the mass spectrometer, the computer, the pumps, and the printer.
With a portable bench, you get even more layout versatility. You can install the bench next to a wall without leaving wide access channels for scheduled maintenance. You can also roll the system forward and back during routine maintenance or repairs for access. The bench’s mobility makes it simple to access all sides, negating the need for a service access area.
4. Secure
Cable maintenance is among the biggest difficulties researchers and other laboratory staff encounter when dealing with mass spectrometry systems. Specialized equipment’s intricate connectivity poses a significant safety risk. The potential cabling and cables may tangle up, resulting in trip, spill, and electrical shock accidents.
A bench design can address these safety issues by providing plenty of access for cable organization through the following:
- An extensive hose and cable grommet inside the work surface
- A bench enclosure with an open-back design
5. Quiet
For lab staff using mass spectrometers, pump noise can be a major challenge. Pump noise is a necessary component of mass spectrometry research, with high decibel levels as a process component. Unique enclosures minimize the decibel level by 13–19 dB, depending on pump frequency.
Features of an integrated mechanical pump enclosure that can dampen noise include the following:
- Sonex® sound suppression foam paneling
- Dense wood core construction
- Integrated anti-vibration mounts for vibration dampening
Two to four 117 CFM heat exhaust fans per enclosure are another alternative for noise reduction. These fans remove heat from the pumps and offer the option of incorporating a hose coupling to direct polluted air to a central exhaust system.
Unique enclosures should fit various pumps from Varian, Edwards, Sogevac, and Pfeiffer Vacuum. The noise suppression enclosures may come as freestanding options or be integrated with the lab benches, which hold equipment from top mass spectrometer producers.
6. Quality
The quality of materials and the construction process can make a lab bench truly unique. Mass spec benches that include completely welded steel frames and heavy-duty total-lock casters are durable and can support heavy weights. Work surfaces made from Trespa® Chemical Resistant Phenolic are aesthetically appealing and resistant to wear and tear.
Unique MS Bench Solutions for Your Laboratory
Mass spectrometry benches can benefit your biotech company in many ways. They provide a storage location for your system and all the auxiliary parts you need. You also get to save lots of space while you conveniently organize your equipment.
Find a unique MS bench made for your specific needs. With the right bench, you can use the adaptive features to upscale your lab and expand your activities for higher productivity.