Laboratory gases installation refers to systems designed to provide various gases required for scientific experiments, research, and analytical work within a laboratory setting.
These gases are essential for a wide range of purposes, from providing a controlled atmosphere for experiments to powering analytical instruments and equipment.
A well-designed and maintained gases installation is critical for the safety and efficiency of laboratory operations.
Gas Sources
Gases used in laboratories can come from various sources, such as individual compressed gas cylinders, Multiple cylinder packs (MCP’s), gas generators, or bulk liquid supplies. The choice of gas source depends on the specific requirements of the laboratory and the gases needed.
Gas Storage
Ideally gases are stored outside. Proper storage is essential to ensure the safety of laboratory personnel. Storing gas cylinders inside necessitates careful consideration. Multigas can offer expert advice on appropriate measures such as the use of gas cabinets, ventilation, leak detection, and fire suppression systems to prevent accidents.
Gas Distribution
Once gases are sourced and stored, they need to be distributed to different laboratory areas and instruments. Distribution systems typically consist of a network of pipes, tubing, and valves that carry the gases to their respective points of use.
Gas Regulation
Gas regulators are used to control the flow and pressure of gases as they are delivered to equipment or experiments. These regulators ensure that the gases are supplied at the correct pressure and flow rate.
Safety Systems
Laboratory gases installations should have safety features in place to protect against leaks, pressure variations, and other potential hazards. This may include gas sensors, alarms, emergency shutdown systems, and exhaust systems to vent any released gases safely.
Gas Monitoring
In many applications it will be necessary to have a gas detection system to detect leaks and protect the occupants of the lab. Automated gas monitoring systems can provide real-time data and trigger alarms if any issues arise.
Specialty Gases
Some laboratories require high-purity or specialty gases for specific experiments or analytical instruments. These gases may have stringent purity requirements and must be handled with care.
Compatibility
Different gases can interact with each other or with the materials they come into contact with. Therefore, it’s important to ensure compatibility between the gases, equipment, and materials used in the laboratory.
Compliance
Laboratories must adhere to safety regulations and standards when designing and operating gas installations. Compliance with local, national, and international regulations is essential to maintain a safe working environment.
Maintenance and Training
Regular maintenance of the gas infrastructure is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure the continued reliability of the system. Additionally, laboratory personnel should be trained in the safe handling, use, and storage of gases to minimize risks.
Emergency Response
Laboratories should have well-defined emergency response procedures in case of gas leaks, accidents, or other incidents. This includes evacuation plans, first aid, and access to safety equipment.
Here are some common types of lab gases:
Nitrogen (N2)
- Used for inerting and purging applications.
- Provides an inert atmosphere for sensitive reactions.
- Used in gas chromatography (GC) as a carrier gas.
- Supports mass spectrometry and other analytical techniques.
Oxygen (O2)
- Used in cell culture and microbial fermentation.
- Required for some combustion reactions.
- Used in respiration studies.
Hydrogen (H2)
- Used as a fuel for gas chromatography (GC).
- Supports flame ionization detectors (FID) in GC.
- Used for various reduction reactions in chemical analysis.
Helium (He)
- Commonly used as a carrier gas in gas chromatography.
- Used in liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).
- Valuable for leak detection due to its low molecular weight.
Argon (Ar)
- Used in gas chromatography as a carrier gas.
- Provides an inert atmosphere for certain chemical reactions.
- Supports inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
- Used for pH regulation in cell culture and biotechnology.
- Supports certain chemical reactions.
- Used for dry ice and cooling applications.
Acetylene (C2H2)
- Used for flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).
- Supports flame ionization detectors (FID) in GC.
- Used in certain welding applications.
Ammonia (NH3)
- Used for pH regulation in chemical and biological laboratories.
- Supports certain analytical techniques and reactions.
- Used in environmental monitoring.
Methane (CH4)
- Used as a fuel gas for gas chromatography (GC).
- Supports flame ionization detectors (FID) in GC.
- Used in certain chemical reactions.
Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
- Used in electrical equipment testing and calibration.
- Used as a tracer gas in environmental studies.
- Known for its high dielectric strength.
Compressed Air
- Used in various lab equipment, such as pneumatic systems and air-driven instruments.
- Provides a source of oxygen for combustion reactions.