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Why purchase transparent enclosures?
The primary limitations of a transparent glovebox are as follows:
The first limitation is typically the chemical compatibility. Many hazardous and corrosive chemicals will attack the transparent material and either cloud the appearance or "craze" the material which will lead to an "opaque" piece of laboratory equipment potentially rendering it useless.
The second limitation is the durability of the transparent material. Typically, acrylic (although sometimes polycarbonate is used) is the material of choice for transparent enclosures. Although polycarbonate is the same material used for protecting bank tellers from a robber's bullet and is quite strong, acrylic does not share its toughness and can crack easily if not handled with care. It is for this reason that acrylic enclosures are not recommended for abusive or rough environments.
A potential third concern is the nature of transparent materials that can lead to eventual "holding" of oxygen in the wall of the enclosure or actual "pass through" of moisture or oxygen. This occurs simply because of the chemical nature and make up of materials used in construction.
The primary benefits of as transparent glove box are as follows:
The primary benefit of a transparent glove box is the price. Compared to a stainless steel or similar material glove box, a transparent glove box is a fraction of the cost. This is particularly important for "pre-testing" of a process or research project. Typically, a transparent enclosure is utilized to test a process or research before the expensive stainless steel enclosure is purchased. All of the "bugs" are worked out with a transparent test unit and then the final stainless steel box is designed and built.
A secondary benefit of transparent enclosures is the brightness inside the box and almost a 360° view of what is going on inside the enclosure. This is important from a visual standpoint to ensure a process or project is continuing at the proper rate or method. This is also a significant benefit for universities and teaching facilities where classroom and group projects are necessary.
A third benefit is the weight. Transparent glove boxes weigh significantly less than that of a stainless steel enclosure. This not only is less expensive to ship, but also easier to work with in the laboratory or the classroom.
A fourth benefit is the ease of use. Plas-Labs boxes are known for their simplicity and ease of set up and use. Although they are not known for their sophistication and complexity, the ease of use meets a different customer need.
Shipping speed is also significantly faster for a transparent enclosure. Standard transparent enclosures can usually be shipped within 10 days after receipt of order.
For these reasons and transparent enclosure is the first choice for researchers wishing to accomplish basic or initial research with non-corrosive substances. Due to the low cost and simplicity of the Plas-Labs enclosure as well as the number of enclosures in use around the world, the Plas-Labs enclosure has become known as the "world's most preferred glove box."
If however, a researcher is looking to perform studies using corrosive materials or needs a complex gas purification system or other device, the Plas-Labs enclosure is not the best enclosure for you.
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