THORLABS LFE1220W-US User manual

LFE1220W-US, -EU, and -UK Laminar Flow Enclosures
LFE1220W-US,
LFE1220W-EU, and
LFE1220W-UK
Laminar Flow
Enclosure
Installation Manual
Original Instructions

LFE1220W-US, -EU, and -UK Laminar Flow Enclosures
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction........................................................................................................................1
Chapter 2 Safety..................................................................................................................................2
2.1. General Warnings and Cautions..........................................................................2
Chapter 3 Installation..........................................................................................................................3
3.1. Installation Requirements....................................................................................3
3.2. Environmental Conditions ...................................................................................3
3.3. Parts List..............................................................................................................4
3.4. Installing the Roof Frame Assembly....................................................................8
3.4.1. Required Parts:...........................................................................................................8
3.4.2. Inner Frame Assembly................................................................................................8
3.4.3. Roof Frame Assembly ..............................................................................................13
3.5. Inner Roof Panel Fitting.....................................................................................21
3.5.1. Required Parts:.........................................................................................................21
3.5.2. Roof Panel Fitting.....................................................................................................21
3.6. Upright Frame Assembly ...................................................................................25
3.6.1. Required Parts:.........................................................................................................25
3.6.2. Upright Assembly......................................................................................................25
3.6.3. Fitting the Roof Frame Assembly..............................................................................29
3.7. Fitting the HEPA Fan Filter Unit (FFU)...............................................................36
3.7.1. Required Parts:.........................................................................................................36
3.7.2. Fitting the HEPA FFU ...............................................................................................36
3.8. Lighting ..............................................................................................................43
3.8.1. Required Parts:.........................................................................................................43
3.8.2. LED Light Strip Attachment.......................................................................................45
3.9. Fitting Curtains...................................................................................................49
3.9.1. Required Parts:.........................................................................................................49
3.9.2. Short Side Curtain Assembly ....................................................................................49
3.9.3. Long Side Curtain Assembly.....................................................................................54
Chapter 4 Air Quality Monitor.........................................................................................................57
4.1. Box Contents......................................................................................................57
4.2. Installation..........................................................................................................57
4.3. Function Description..........................................................................................60
Chapter 5 Servicing Instructions....................................................................................................61
5.1. HEPA FFU Servicing ..........................................................................................61
5.1.1. Removing the HEPA FFU from the Roof...................................................................61
5.2. Removing Push Rivets.......................................................................................61
5.3. Cleaning the Curtain Strips................................................................................61
Chapter 6 Specifications..................................................................................................................62
Chapter 7 Regulatory........................................................................................................................63
7.1. Declarations of Compliance...............................................................................63
7.1.1. For Customers in Europe..........................................................................................63
7.1.2. For Customers In The USA.......................................................................................64
Chapter 8 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts......................................................................................65

LFE1220W-US, -EU, and -UK Laminar Flow EnclosuresChapter 1: Introduction
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Chapter 1 Introduction
The LFE1220W-US (-EU and -UK) Laminar Flow Enclosure enables the creation of a clean environment around a Nexus
Optical Table. The system incorporates an enclosure frame with soft wall transparent curtain sides, enclosed ceiling, and
top mounted HEPA Fan Filter Unit (FFU). It also includes an Air Quality Monitor (AQM) which monitors continuously the
quality of the air inside the enclosure.
The LFE1220W-US (-EU and -UK) is intended to be used as a wrap around enclosure for 1.2 m x 2.0 m (4’ x 6’) Nexus
optical tables, enclosing only the table surface to reduce the space required for installation, minimize contamination, and
decrease the enclosed air volume to aid in the reduction of airflow turbulence. The HEPA filter units shipped with the –US,
-UK and –EU enclosures require a voltage of 115 V and 230 V respectively.
Caution
The LFE system has been designed to fit a 1.2 m x 2.0 m (4’ x 6’) Nexus optical table. Other table makes and
sizes may not be compatible.
Note. Intended use of the Air Quality Monitor
The Air Quality Monitor includedin the LFE1220W system is intended for measuring the air inside the enclosure
to provide a good quantitive indication of air cleanliness. This allows a comparison of air cleanliness inside and
outside the enclosure, thereby reassuring the user that the HEPA unit is working properly.
It is not intended for taking accurate, absolute or calibrated measurements of particle numbers, particularly in
low concentrations. Neither should it be used for measuring particle numbers in the entire volume of air outside
the enclosure. It is not intended for use in ISO certification of clean rooms.

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Chapter 2 Safety
For the continuing safety of the operators of this equipment, and the protection of the equipment itself, the operator should
take note of the Warnings, Cautions and Notes throughout this handbook and, where visible, on the product itself.
Warning: Risk of Electrical Shock
Given when there is a risk of electrical shock.
Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury to the user.
Warning: Risk of Finger Trap
Given when there is a risk of trapping fingers between parts.
Caution
Given when there is a possibility of damage to the product.
Note
Clarification of an instruction or additional information.
2.1. General Warnings and Cautions
Warning: Risk of Electric Shock
The Filter Unit is powered by mains voltages. This is hazardous and can cause serious injury. Appropriate care
should be taken when using this device.
Cables for wiring the Filter Unit are not supplied. These mus
t be provided by the person responsible for
installation and must conform to any applicable local standards.
The unit must be installed only by suitably trained and qualified personnel who understand the hazards
associated with using high voltages and the steps necessary to minimize the risk of electrical shock.
Warning:
If this equipment is used in a mannernot specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by theequipment
may be impaired. In particular, excessive moisture may impair operation.
The equipment is forindoor use only. The equipment is not designed for use in an explosive atmosphere.
Where a Warning symbol appears on the product (e.g. finger trap warning), users must consult this manual to
ascertain the nature of the potential hazard and the means of avoiding them.
Warning: Frame Loading
The construction-rail design of the LFE is intended to allow customers to easily attach and build onto the basic
frame. In this case, the total load in addition to the parts supplied in the kit must not exceed 300kg, with no
more than 100 kg applied to any single construction rail.
To prevent the frame toppling, any attached load which acts outside the perimeter of the frame should not
create a moment load >1600Nm about an axis between any 2 of the feet.
Do not put heavy objects on the roof panels.

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Chapter 3 Installation
3.1. Installation Requirements
The Laminar Flow Enclosure is designed to be installed around an optical table.
Warning
Due to the weight and dimensions of the components, the following procedure must be performed by at least
two persons. Other persons may be necessary at certain points in the installation dependent upon the space
available. These points are identified by the following symbol next to the relevant text.
Caution
Before beginning the installation process, ensure that there is sufficient space in the area to install and
accommodate the enclosure. When assembled, the Laminar Flow Enclosure, measures 3.29 x 2.25 x 2.40 m
(10.79 x 7.38 x 7.87 ft).
A clearance of at least 12" (~ 300 mm) should be maintained between the Fan Filter Unit and the ceiling. This is
essential to ensure optimal Fan Filter Unit performance.
Caution
Ensure that proper airflow is maintained to the Fan Filter Unit. Insufficient air flow will cause overheating and
premature failure.
3.2. Environmental Conditions
Warning
Operation outside the following environmental limits may adversely affect operator safety.
Location Indoor use only
Maximum altitude 2000 m
Temperature range 15°C to 40°C
Maximum Humidity Less than 80% RH (non-condensing) at 31°C
Line Voltage Fluctuations Less than ±10% of the line voltage
To ensure reliable operation the unit should not be exposed to corrosive agents or excessive moisture, heat or dust.
If the unit has been stored at a low temperature or in an environment of high humidity, it must be allowed to reach ambient
conditions before being powered up.
The unit is not designed to be used in explosive environments.
Caution
Under certain conditions, the inside of the enclosure can become hot and uncomfortable. If situated near direct
sunlight it is possible for the enclosure to experience a greenhouse effect. In this situation, when working with
the FFU, the temperature may rise. Avoid working inside the enclosure if the FFU is off and the enclosure is
exposed to direct sunlight.

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3.3. Parts List
Note
The various supports and uprights look very similar to each other and some differ only in the placement of
attachment holes. The different parts can be identified by colored stickers on the packaging as indicated in the
table below. To help identification during assembly, do not unpack the various parts until they are required.
Enclosure Frame
Code
Description
Qty
Image
A Longitudinal Filter Support RH
(Cross section 50 x 50 mm, Length 1215 mm) 2
B Longitudinal Filter Support LH
(Cross section 50 x 50 mm, Length 1215 mm) 2
C

Outer Lateral Filter Support
(Cross section 50 x 75 mm, Length 2100 mm) 2
DLong Top Cross Member
(Cross section 50 x 75 mm, Length 3140 mm) 2
E Central Lateral Filter Support
(Cross section 50 x 75 mm, Length 2100 mm) 1
F Short Top Cross Member
(Cross section 50 x 50 mm, Length 2050 mm) 2
G Frame Upright RH
(Cross section 75 x 75 mm, Length 2000 mm) 2
H

Frame Upright LH
(Cross section 75 x 75 mm, Length 2000 mm) 2

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Enclosure Frame Continued…
Code Description Qty Image
I Corner Gusset RH 4
J Corner Gusset LH 4
K Roof Panel – Inner 4
L Roof Panel – Outer 2
M Curtain Strip 70
N HEPA FFU (Fan Filter Unit) 2
P Foam Tape (inside HEPA FFU Box) 2
Q Curtain Clamp – Short
(with Part Number) 2
R Curtain Clamp – Short
(with Logo) 2
S Curtain Clamp – Long 2
T XE25S2 Slot Cover Profile 4
U AQM001 Air Quality Monitor 1

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Accessories Box
Code Description Qty Image
AA M6 Square Nut 16
AB M6 Washer 142*
AC M6 x 1.0 Low Profile Channel Screw, 16 mm Long 16
AD M6 x 1.0 Hammerhead Screw, 12.7mm Long
(XE25HM6) 118*
AE M6 Nut 44*
AF Assembly Block 2
AG Barrel Plug 36*
AH Push Rivet 80*
AI M6 Domed Nut 78*
AJ 4mm T-handle hex driver 2
AK Assembly tool 2
AL Cable Gland 2
AM 10 mm Spanner 2
*4 extra components included

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Lighting Components Tube
Code Description Qty Image
BA XE25T1/M Drop-in Nut 6
BB M6 x 1.0 Button Screw, 6mm Long 6
BC LED mounting clip 6
BD LED light strip 2
BE 2:1 Splitter Cable 1
BF LED switch extension 1
BG 12V Power Supply 1

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3.4. Installing the Roof Frame Assembly
3.4.1. Required Parts:
Code
Description
Qty
A Longitudinal Filter Support RH 2
B Longitudinal Filter Support LH 2
C Outer Lateral Filter Support 2
D Long Top Cross Member 2
E  Central Lateral Filter Support 1
P Foam Tape 2
AA M6 Square Nut 16
AB M6 Washer 16
AC
M6 x 1.0 Low Profile Screw, 16 mm Long
16
Tools Required
AF Assembly Block
AJ 4 mm T-handle hex driver
AK Assembly tool
3.4.2. Inner Frame Assembly
1. Take 1 x Longitudinal Filter Support RH (A ), 1 x Longitudinal Filter Support LH (B ) and 1 x Outer Lateral
Filter Support (C). Lay the parts flat on the floor, with the filter flange uppermost as shown.
Figure 1Identification of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports

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2. The construction rails are assembled by sliding the head of low profile screws into the T-slots of the construction
rail. To enable the assembly, the spacing between the end of the construction rail and the underside of the screw
head must be set to a specific distance. For convenience, all assembly screws have been pre-fitted, but the exact
spacing must be set before assembly. An assembly tool (AK) has been provided for this purpose.
Set the spacing of the low profile screws in the ends of the RH and LH Longitudinal Supports
(A ) and (B). Using the 4mm T-handle hex driver (AJ), loosen the screws from their pre-installed position
just enough to insert the assembly tool (AK) under the screw heads. Tighten the screws lightly against the
assembly tool, then back off 1/4 turn to release the assembly tool.
Figure 2Using the Assembly Tool
3. Using the 4mm T-handle hex driver (AJ) supplied, loosen the 3 screws holding the flange to the Lateral Filter
Support (C ). Loosen just enough for the flange to slide along the slot (<1 turn). Slide the flange to the left.
Figure 3Sliding the Flange

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4. Fit the end of Longitudinal Filter Support LH (B ) into the T-slot recesses of the Lateral Filter Support (C )
and slide across approx. 12.5mm [0.5"] to align the screws with the through holes.
Figure 4Assembly of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports – Step 4
5. Slide the loose flange across to meet the flange fixed to the Longitudinal Filter Support.
Figure 5Assembly of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports – Step 5

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6. Fit the end of Longitudinal Filter Support RH Supports (A ) into the T-slot recesses of the Lateral Filter Support
(C ) and slide across approx. 12.5mm [0.5"] to align the screws with the through holes.
Figure 6Assembly of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports – Step 6
7. To assemble construction rails together, the low profile screw heads are tightened inside the T-slots, clamping
the parts together. To access the screw heads for tightening, through holes have been drilled in the construction
rails, and the provided 4mm T-handle hex driver (AJ) is passed through the holes. To give the correct tightness,
the screws should be turned between ¾ - 1 rotation
For this step: Assembly Blocks (AF) are provided and these should be placed under the free end of the
longitudinal supports as shown below to raise them 25 mm for ease of tightening the screws. Using the 4mm T-
handle hex driver (AJ), tighten the 8 screws (4 in each RH and LH Longitudinal Support). Ensure the top faces of
of the Longitudinal Supports (A ) and (B) fit flush with the top faces of the Lateral Support (C ).
Figure 7Assembly of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports – Step 7

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8. Re-tighten the filter flanges on the lateral support, making sure the flange faces are all flush and parallel to each
other.
Figure 8Assembly of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports – Step 8
9. Repeat steps 1 to 8 to produce a second inner frame sub assembly with Longitudinal Supports attached to a
Lateral Support.
Figure 9Assembly of Longitudinal and Lateral Filter Supports – Step 9

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3.4.3. Roof Frame Assembly
10. Take one of the inner frame sub-assemblies from step 9, and insert an assembly block (AF) under each of the
Longitudinal Supports to lift them 25 mm as shown below, so that the whole of the assembly sits horizontally. Take the
Central Lateral Filter Support (E ) and position it against the other parts, with the filter flange between the flanges on
the Longitudinal Supports.
Figure 10 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 10

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11. Insert eight M6 Square Nuts (AA) into the Central Lateral Filter Support (E ); two into the top and middle slot of each
end, on the side with the angle brackets in contact. Slide these nuts down until they are in position behind the angle
bracket (the T-handle hex driver can be used to position the nuts in place behind the angle bracket slot).
Note. If a nut slides too far and becomes inaccessible, tilt the frame to slide the nut back to a better position.
Figure 11 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 11

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12. Insert the two assembly tools (AK) as spacers between the ends of the fixed flange on the central lateral support and
the flanges on the longitudinal supports. This will position the longitudinal supports correctly. While in this position, use
four M6 Washers (AB) and four M6 x 16 Low Profile Screws (AC) to screw into the square nuts inserted in step 11 to
fix the bracket to the central lateral support, making sure that the top surfaces are flush.
Figure 12 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 12

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13. Repeat steps 10 to 12 to attach the remaining sub assembly from step 9 to the other side of the central lateral support
member, forming an inner roof frame.
Figure 13 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 13
14. Set the spacing of the assembly screws (as per step 2) in both ends of each lateral support. The assembly tool (AK)
can be inserted from the top and from the side as shown below.
Figure 14 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 14

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15. It is recommended that 2 people perform this step. Fit one of the LongTop CrossMembers (D)to the inner frame
assembled in the previous steps as shown below. Insert the screw heads on the lateral supports into T-slot recesses
and slide along approx. 12.5mm to align screw heads with access holes. Ensure that the top faces of the extrusion
pieces are flush, then using the T-handle hex driver supplied, tighten the uppermost 2 screws on each of the 3 lateral
supports.
NOTE: The holes in the long top cross member do not align with the outer lateral supports, only the hole in the central
lateral support will align as shown below.
Figure 15 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 15

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16. It is recommended that 2 people perform this step. Fit the assembly blocks (AF) underneath the Long Top Cross
Member (D ) as shown below, to lift it by 50mm and make it easier to access the lower 2 screws. Using the T-handle
hex driver supplied, tighten the lower 2 screws for each of the 3 lateral supports.
Figure 16 Roof Frame Assembly – Step 16