Using Trespa solid surface tops on laboratory benches
One of the more popular solid surface tops for use with lab benches is made by a company called Trespa. The TopLab Plus surface has become the countertop of choice for laboratories around the world. What makes this surface ideal for a laboratory setting is its stain and chemical resistant qualities. Laboratories need to be clean and hygienic, and countertops are particularly vulnerable to contamination, so it is necessary to find a surface that is both easy to clean and durable.
TopLab Plus surface panels meet laboratory requirements and are resistant to water, chemicals and wear. As long as the harsh chemicals are removed from the surface within 24 hours, they will not mark the countertop. The surface is non-porous, allowing the antimicrobial property to be incorporated into the material without the need for additives or coatings. This feature does not wear off during the life of the surface, so bacterial stains will always dry relatively quickly and mold, bacteria and other microorganisms will not grow on or penetrate the surface.
Flexibility is a quality that results from Trespa material serving a purpose in a multifunctional environment. This surface is durable enough for use in a mobile environment and provides added strength in a lecture room or laboratory. The impact resistance is what makes it more suitable for mobile use in equipment such as carts. The surface must retain its original appearance for years, limiting overall equipment costs.
Many customers are concerned about the environmental impact resulting from creating laboratory furniture. Environmental considerations were taken into account during the development of the TopLab Plus material. Softwood harvested from certified forests is made into a durable, moisture-resistant, low-maintenance and attractive material. This environmentally friendly process is used to produce all TopLab Plus panels.
As much as 70 percent of wood-based fibers and most raw materials are made from sustainable resources. The panel size has been optimized to reduce waste and the surface technology reduces maintenance and cleaning requirements. Fewer joints suit hygienic environments and there is no need to glue panels to a substructure. The company has taken other environmentally friendly measures, such as ensuring discharge and emissions are within acceptable limits, eliminating corrosive and toxic gases, and improving waste reduction. Optimal routes and efficient delivery ensure that even the transportation process is not wasteful.
In addition to resisting chemicals, stains, and moisture, this surface is also heat resistant. Continuous exposure to temperatures up to 284 degrees is feasible and exposure of 20 minutes or less to temperatures up to 356 degrees can also be accommodated without any negative effects. The surface can handle a high-temperature experimental environment, as well as one that accommodates equipment like computers.
Solid Trespa work surfaces can be designed to include slots, drain holes, sinks and other accessories determined by the purpose of the laboratory. Laboratory benches fitted with Trespa TopLab can even be modified after installation to accommodate changes in working practices. Trimming and reconditioning will not adversely affect the appearance or performance of the surface.