Using HEPA Filters for Laminar Flow Hoods in Mushroom Cultivation

Why Mushroom Cultivators Rely on HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are used by mushroom cultivators to create laminar flow hoods. Their fine filtration ability is utilised to create sterile environments to prevent contamination of cultures. Contaminants include dust, dirt, fungi, bacteria, and viruses that can travel in the air. Mushrooms are highly vulnerable to infection when they are first growing so cultivation requires a clean and sterile environment.

How HEPA Filters Trap Microscopic Contaminants

HEPA filters have multiple layers to provide a remarkably high level of filtration. An outer layer acts as a barrier against large particles, those that can be seen with the naked eye, including dust, hair and dirt. Inside the large filter is a collection of thin filters that act to prevent smaller particles from passing through. This thinner filter is made up of minute glass fibres that can catch the microscopic contaminants from the air. The combination of the larger and finer filter layers enable the HEPA to filter against both large and small particle sizes, thus creating a sterile environment.

Setting Up a Laminar Flow Hood

HEPA filters are placed at the front of the hood to filter the incoming air to greatly reduce the chance of incoming airborne contaminants and therefore to create a sterile environment. A fan is placed within another wall of the hood to draw air in and across the HEPA filter. A pre-filter, with less air resistance than the HEPA (e.g. our pleated panels, or Promedia Air Filter), is attached over the fan on the outside of the hood. A net/covering should be attached over the HEPA on the outside of the hood to protect the delicate filter, to lengthen efficiency.

Choosing the Right Filter: H13 vs. H14 Efficiency

The HEPA filters recommended for laminar flow hoods are of H13 and H14 efficiency.

H13 HEPA Filters: Prevent >99.95% of contaminants from flowing through and have a pressure drop of 90 Pa.
H14 HEPA Filters: Slightly more efficient, preventing >99.995% of contaminants and have a pressure drop of 100 Pa.

Custom HEPA Filters for Your Setup

We understand that not all setups are standard, which is why we offer HEPA filters in bespoke sizes tailored to perfectly fit your specific laminar flow hood requirements.

If you have any specific or technical inquiries, or would like to request a quote for custom dimensions, please don't hesitate to contact us!