Laboratory refrigerators are specifically designed to store volatile substances. Some of these substances remain stable at prescribed temperatures. Others require specialized storage. Make sure that you need to use an explosion proof refrigerator or freezer before purchasing one. Often, Flammable Proofing is all that is required.

Flammable substances have to be stored in specially designed refrigerators that keep them safe from possible ignition. Such liquids and samples will have to be stored in flammable storage refrigerators (or explosion-proof) units. This will depend on the extent of its volatility of the materials. You may also need to keep materials in a much colder environment. Flammable storage freezers will be required.

Flammable vs Explosion-Proof Refrigerators

There are some fundamental differences between flammable and explosion-proof refrigerators. Understanding these will help laboratory personnel make an informed decision when they set out to buy refrigerators.

Flammable refrigerators and freezers do not allow any flammable vapors to ignite from within. These would make an ideal choice for the storage of any flammable liquid.

Explosion-proof refrigerators, on the other hand, safeguard against ignition inside and outside the appliance. Elements such as completely sealed electrical components, corrosion resistance as well as thick cables increase the safety factor.

Consider This Before Purchasing a Lab Refrigerator

When you are debating on the purchase of a laboratory refrigerator, take into consideration the staff. Even the tiniest amount of a flammable substance, if stored wrong, could result in physical harm to them.

Regular refrigerators have electrical, in-built lights and even temp fluctuations that could result in ignition. A flammable or explosion-proof refrigerator, depending on need, might be required. For bigger laboratories, these plans have to be made much in advance because flammable refrigerators can easily be plugged in and used. Explosion-proof refrigerators will need their wiring built into the lab.

While generally not a good idea, you may use general purpose refrigerators in the lab. They are relatively cheaper and can store bio chemicals and bio molecules that are less affected by differences in temperature. However, a consumer refrigerator (like you might buy at a regular retail store) is not designed to handle the rigorous demands of refrigerated storage in the lab. Substances that are highly reactive, caustic, and acidic should never be stored in consumer refrigerators. When you need to store potentially harmful chemicals, inflammable and volatile substances, you cannot use consumer refrigerators.