Incorporating Gloveboxes into Lab Design

Lab Design News spoke to Shelby Hiquet, product manager of Medline Industries, about the ins and outs of gloveboxes in lab design.

Q: At what point in the lab design/build/renovation process should glovebox placement be considered? During the initial planning stages, during the renovation construction of the lab, or once the lab is finished?

A: The optimal timing for considering glovebox placement within the lab design/build/renovation process is during the initial planning stages. This is primarily due to the necessity of integrating gloveboxes with gas lines and electricity. Determining the placement during the planning phase allows for alignment with the gas infrastructure of the building and facilitates efficient integration into the lab layout. Additionally, considerations such as the materials being handled, mainly if they involve toxic vapors, necessitate strategic positioning near appropriate safety equipment, such as fume hoods.

Clients often have preferences regarding glovebox placement, especially in new lab constructions. The previous placement may serve as a guide in renovation projects, although adjustments may be necessary based on updated requirements or improvements. Collaboration among stakeholders, including general contractors, architects, and lab supervisors, is integral to determining the optimal placement. Considerations typically include ergonomic factors, spatial constraints, and proximity to other lab equipment to ensure seamless workflow and functionality within the lab space.

Q: What needs to be considered when choosing a glovebox for a lab? (for example, placement in the room, power needs, flexible placement, etc.)

A: When selecting a glovebox for a lab, several key considerations come into play. Firstly, electrical requirements must be assessed, as gloveboxes may utilize either 230-volt or 115-volt power sources, necessitating compatibility with existing electrical infrastructure. Additionally, factors such as the size of the glovebox and whether it incorporates a vent-out feature must be taken into account. Vent-out capability entails the need for a ventilation system to expel air outside the building, necessitating appropriate integration with the facility's ventilation infrastructure.

Furthermore, it's crucial to engage in a comprehensive dialogue with the client to ascertain their specific requirements and preferences. These inquiries typically delve into the application-specific needs of the glovebox, such as the desired moisture and oxygen control level. Understanding these nuanced requirements enables the identification of glovebox models that align closely with the client's operational needs and constraints, ensuring optimal customized functionality and performance within the lab environment. 

Q: How can a glovebox be accommodated in a lab where space is an issue? Are there smaller options available, for example?

A: In situations where space constraints pose a challenge for integrating a glovebox into a lab, several strategies can be employed to maximize efficiency. While most gloveboxes maintain a standard size, adaptable solutions exist to optimize space utilization. One such approach involves leveraging modular casework options, which offer versatility and customization capabilities. These platforms allow the glovebox to be positioned atop them, facilitating easy relocation to different areas within the lab as needed. Furthermore, specialized modular tables designed for note-taking or supporting secondary tools like laptops enhance workflow flexibility, enabling seamless integration with and around the glovebox while optimizing available space. Labs can effectively address space limitations by implementing these adaptable solutions without compromising functionality or efficiency.

Q: How can the design/renovation of a lab account for future glovebox technology? How flexible does the design need to be in order to account for future, perhaps unknown, changes in glovebox technology?

A: Adaptability is vital when considering the design or renovation of a lab to accommodate future glovebox technology. In fields like battery research, where the size of batteries continues to evolve, potential requirements for larger gloveboxes, including double-wide configurations, may arise. Advancements in glovebox technology are also shifting toward more modularity, enabling customizable solutions to meet evolving research needs. For instance, modern gloveboxes offer designs that allow for the integration of additional equipment, such as furnaces or vacuum-operated ovens.

To effectively account for future changes in glovebox technology, lab designs should prioritize flexibility and scalability. This entails adopting adaptable layouts and infrastructure that can accommodate varying glovebox sizes and configurations. By incorporating such flexibility into the design process, labs can future-proof their facilities and ensure readiness for emerging technologies and research demands.

Q: How should the design/renovation of a lab account for glovebox maintenance or repair? (For example, can the glovebox be slid out from its position for repairs, or does the design need to leave enough room for a maintenance professional to access it?)

A: When planning the design or renovation of a lab, it is imperative to consider the maintenance and repair needs, which are substantial and heavy pieces of equipment. To facilitate maintenance accessibility, one effective approach is to integrate mobility features into the design. This can be achieved by placing the glovebox on a wheeled table, enabling easy movement within the lab space. Additionally, ensuring sufficient space around the glovebox allows maintenance professionals to access all sides of the equipment without constraints.

While customers may opt to install gloveboxes on fixed casework for stability, this choice may present challenges during repair and maintenance activities. Ultimately, prioritizing accessibility and maneuverability in the lab design enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of maintenance, minimizing disruptions to laboratory operations.

Q: Anything else you want to add?

A: When considering the purchase of a glovebox, it is imperative that a customer consults with technical experts. Gloveboxes are bulky and costly for shipping and installation; thus, getting them right the first time will be cost- and time-efficient. Additionally, if a client works with a technical expert, the glove box can have custom solutions designed for the lab’s specific needs.