Energy efficiency through optimized laboratory layout
Climatic requirements are often a cost driver
Many laboratories are fully air-conditioned. However, air conditioning a large laboratory across the board is not only critical in terms of environmental protection. It also means high costs for the laboratory operator. There are usually only a few workflows or process steps that are really temperature-critical. In addition, the various process sequences often have different climate requirements.
As always, the "one-fits-all" solution is therefore not the best option when it comes to room temperature and humidity.
When modernizing a laboratory, it is therefore advisable not only to think structurally about how to arrange which processes and equipment in a sensible way, but also to include the climatic requirements of the workflows in these considerations.
However, these considerations require a combination of many years of laboratory planning experience and knowledge of the various workflows in the specific laboratory.
Infraserv helps design different climate zones in the lab
In our numerous laboratory conversion projects, we therefore not only focus on work efficiency, but also on the energy-efficient arrangement of laboratories.
For example, depending on requirements, we can use a wide variety of elements, from climate cabinets to individual encapsulated modules such as air-conditioned workstations to climate-controlled rooms. This allows us to create different air-conditioned areas that significantly increase the energy efficiency of the laboratory and at the same time offer optimum conditions for process sequences.
Sometimes it also helps to separate the heat generated from the rest of the laboratory with an enclosure and remove it with a fume cupboard.
At the start of a project, we therefore always ask our client about their previous experience and requirements.
- Which processes have special climate requirements?
- How have these processes been implemented so far?
- Which appliances generate a lot of heat?
- Which processes should be grouped together?
In the process, we learn that perhaps the climate chamber previously used was not optimally suited to the customer's workflows and that slightly larger temperature-controlled areas are desired.
We incorporate these individual experiences and wishes into our planning, along with many other aspects such as optimal walking routes or occupational safety. When it comes to implementation, the possibilities are almost unlimited and we have already realized many different concepts. This provides valuable inspiration for new projects and, in the end, an optimally designed laboratory.
Laboratory design: Questions you should answer before starting construction
If you want to know what else there is to consider in the process, simply read through our guide to laboratory design.
