Lab benches, lab tables, and phenolic table tops endure significant physical abuse, regardless of the environment. Throughout any given day, they come into contact with harsh chemicals, liquids, heat, commercial cleaners, and abrasions, interacting with a plethora of diverse components. In this article, we will explore the most common indicators that suggest the need for the replacement of your lab tables and epoxy resin countertops.
Have you been obtaining questionable results from your lab-chemistry equipment? Perhaps your cold storage freezer emits peculiar noises, or your centrifuge produces an excessively loud whir. These vague signs may prompt you to retire your used lab equipment, but there is an alternative. Before discarding your expensive equipment and making a new purchase, consider the option of reconditioning and redeployment through a surplus asset management company. Regardless, there are several ways to determine whether it is time to retire your lab equipment or attempt to refurbish it for an extended lifespan.
Energy efficiency has made significant advancements in power consumption technology in recent decades. In various industries and sectors, electrically powered devices are now more efficient than ever, benefiting both the environment and your wallet.
However, you might be hesitant to replace that ultracentrifuge from decades ago simply because it still functions. But just because it spins doesn't mean it's the best choice for you. In reality, that aging centrifuge likely consumes a significantly larger amount of power compared to a modern unit that can achieve the same level of g-force or speed. Consequently, using the old centrifuge ends up being much more expensive in the long term.
The same principle applies to almost all laboratory equipment. Although the initial cost may be higher, it could be more cost-effective in the long run to take the plunge and invest in a new system that offers optimized energy consumption.
At some stage, your equipment will inevitably require repair. However, if you encounter a situation where one of your instruments malfunctions and you are unable to locate replacement parts for its repair, it is advisable to contemplate purchasing a new model. When essential operations within your laboratory are halted due to the search for an obsolete circuit board on platforms like eBay, resulting in monetary losses for your organization, it becomes evident that replacing the instrument is the most suitable course of action.
Through years of consistent usage, laboratory equipment accumulates scuffs and stains as a natural consequence. However, there are instances where accidents happen or maintenance tasks are neglected, resulting in units displaying significant dents, deep scratches, or extensive corrosion. Even if the instrument functions properly, utilizing a device that appears to have been subjected to rough treatment can still lead to issues.
First and foremost, it can have a negative impact on the professional image of your laboratory. The physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping a company's culture and influencing the overall mood of its employees. Therefore, it is essential to dedicate time and effort to maintaining the cleanliness and presentability of your equipment.
Lab equipment is designed to be robust and reliable, but even the highest-quality devices experience performance degradation as they age. Therefore, it is essential to closely monitor the performance of your lab equipment to identify any signs of deterioration. By paying attention to feedback from your lab technicians, you can gain valuable insights into the health of your used equipment. If your technicians frequently complain about inconsistencies in lab results or encounter problems with cycle runs, it may be an indication that it's time to replace that outdated equipment with the assistance of a surplus asset management company.
A clear indication that your laboratory requires renovation is the occurrence of substantial temperature fluctuations. Due to the diverse range of processes and experimental procedures conducted in labs, the equipment employed is often highly sensitive to temperature variations.
Additionally, frequent temperature changes can have detrimental effects on the various types of lab devices. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a consistent temperature within the laboratory environment throughout the workday.
If your laboratory experiences frequent temperature fluctuations or encounters difficulties in regulating temperature, it may be worth considering the installation of newer heating and cooling systems to ensure optimal conditions for your lab equipment.
Marring refers to the scuff marks left on epoxy work surfaces when softer metals are dragged across them. It appears as a smooth line on the surface and can be felt to the touch.
In most cases, marring on epoxy resin lab countertops can be eliminated by using acetone or a gentle cleaning product along with some effort. It is recommended to start with a soft cloth and a mild solution such as soap and water, gradually increasing the strength if needed.
If the marring persists, a damp pad with a stronger solution can be used. However, it is important to never use an abrasive pad without moisture, and always begin with light pressure to avoid causing further damage.
Different types of chemical-resistant lab equipment may generate a certain level of noise, which is considered normal. However, if your epoxy resin lab tables start producing excessive or unusual noise, it indicates an issue that requires attention.
When you notice an increase in noise levels or hear unusual sounds emanating from your lab furniture, it may be an indication of damage or wear and tear.
In any workplace, including laboratories, productivity holds significant importance. To enhance efficiency, strategic placement of phenolic resin equipment, accessories, and storage can be incorporated into the initial design.
While it may not be as evident as visible wear and tear on instruments, a noticeable decline in productivity within the lab serves as a clear indication that something is amiss. It is crucial to investigate the equipment as a potential cause of workflow disruptions.
Even if not immediately noticeable, damage to phenolic resin equipment can result in slower processing times, leading to delays in obtaining results and impeding the workflow.
Consistency and accuracy in results are paramount in chemical-resistant laboratories. Even slight deviations in outcomes can derail experiments or tests. If your chemical-resistant equipment fails to deliver accurate results, it signifies the need for an upgrade.
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