A laboratory workbench is a specialized table used for conducting experiments, testing, and storing instruments. It serves as a core infrastructure in scientific research and industrial labs, with its design directly impacting efficiency, safety, and result reliability. This article systematically explains the importance of laboratory workbenches by covering their definition, functions, types, materials, design principles, and purchasing guidelines.
一. Definition and Core Functions
1. Basic Definition
A laboratory workbenchs (实验室工作台/工作桌) is a dedicated platform designed for experimental operations, typically equipped with:
Physical support for instruments
Utility connections (water, electricity, gas)
Storage space
Safety features
It serves as the foundation for sample handling, equipment operation, and data analysis.
2. Key Functions
Work Surface: Provides a flat, corrosion-resistant area for equipment and chemicals.
Integrated Utilities: Includes power outlets, gas valves, sinks, and ventilation.
Safety Features: Anti-explosion, fireproof, and anti-static designs.
Space Optimization: Improves lab layout and workflow efficiency.
二. Types and Applications
- By Experiment Type
| Type | Features | Common Uses |
| Chemical Lab Bench | Resists strong acids/alkalis; includes emergency eyewash/fume hoods. | Organic synthesis, analytics |
| Biosafety Lab Bench | Sealed design, HEPA filters, negative pressure. | Microbiology, virology (BSL-2+) |
| Physics Lab Bench | Vibration-proof, EMI-shielded, high load capacity (≥500kg/m²). | Optics, precision instruments |
| Cleanroom Bench | Anti-static coating (10⁶–10⁹Ω), dust-free. | Semiconductor testing |
2. By Structure
Fixed lab bench: Built into the lab; stable but inflexible.
Modular lab bench: Adjustable components for flexible setups.
Mobile lab bench: Wheeled with locks for shared labs.
三. Material Comparison
1. Lab workbenches Surface Materials
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Epoxy Resin | Chemical-resistant, easy to clean | Scratches easily, ≤120°C | General chemistry labs |
| Stainless Steel | Antibacterial, ≤500°C, durable | Expensive, shows fingerprints | Sterile environments |
| Trespa | Impact-resistant, pH 3-11 | Degrades with strong acids | Teaching labs |
| Ceramic | Heat-resistant (≥1000°C), insulating | Brittle, hard to install | High-temperature work |
2. Frame Materials
Steel frames (C/H-beam): Heavy-duty, rust/acid-proof coatings.
四. Design Principles
1. Ergonomics
Lab bench top height: 90±5cm (standing), 72±2cm (sitting).
Legroom: ≥30cm depth, ≥60cm height.
2. Safety
Rounded edges (≥3mm radius).
Electrical: IP54 rating, leakage protection.
Chemical benches: Spill containment (≥2cm rim).
3. Scalability
Standardized ports (e.g., 12mm gas connectors).
Extra 20% utility space for expansion.
五. Real-World Examples
1. Education Labs
Schools: Fixed steel laboratory bench, integrated reagent racks, sinks and power sockets, table surface partition labeled “reagent zone” “instrument zone”.
Universities: Modularized steel laboratory bench, supporting the free combination of microscope, centrifuge, temperature control equipment.
2. Industry Labs
Food Testing: Steel laboratory benches with UV lights (HACCP-compliant).
Environmental: Anti-static benches with VOC sensors.
3. Specialized Labs
Nuclear Research: Lead-shielded (≥10cm) with robotic arms.
Nanotech: Stainless steel lab bench to avoid metal contamination of sensitive samples.
六. The future development trend of the laboratory bench
1. Smart Labs
IoT sensors for real-time monitoring.
Voice/gesture controls to reduce contamination.
2. Eco-Friendly
Recycled materials (e.g., bio-resins).
Modular designs to cut waste.
3. Multifunctional
3D-printed custom attachments.
Adjustable tilting surfaces.
七. Lab Bench Buying Guide
1. Prioritize Needs
Safety > Functionality > Cost (e.g., biosafety labs need airtight seals).
High-use labs: Choose durable materials (e.g., ceramic).
2. Standards
China: GB 24820-2009.
International: SEFA (U.S.), DIN EN 13150 (EU).
3. Lab Layout
Measure space and plan bench placement.
4. Durability
Check corrosion/load ratings.
5. Ease of Maintenance
Smooth, non-porous surfaces for cleaning.
Lab workbench is more than just a table—it’s the stage for innovation. Choose based on your lab’s specific needs, balancing safety, functionality, and practicality.
