Description
Overview
Changing cages in a standard 8 in cabinet is awkward by design: the cage does not fit through the opening, so operators tilt it, break the air curtain and lose containment. The A2 Advanced opens to 12 in or 14 in, which is enough to pass a standard rodent cage through upright.
The second difference is the airflow monitoring. Cage changing generates a burst of bedding dust and ammonia at the moment the cage is opened, and the filter loads unevenly. Two sensors — downflow and inflow — let the cabinet alarm on the side that actually drifted, instead of a single combined reading that tells you something is wrong but not what.
It is specified by vivariums, contract research organisations and academic animal facilities, usually alongside a smaller A2 Standard for sample work.
Key features
- 12 in and 14 in sash openings. Standard rodent cages pass through upright, so the operator does not tilt the cage into the air curtain.
- Dual airflow sensors. Downflow and inflow are monitored separately. A loaded supply filter and a disturbed inflow alarm differently, which is what you need to know during cage changing.
- Bedding-tolerant pre-filter. A coarse pre-filter ahead of the supply ULPA filter catches bedding dust, extending the interval between filter changes in a dusty room.
- Coved stainless work zone with drain. Liquid waste and bedding debris collect in a radiused sump that wipes out in one pass.
Specifications
| Airflow class | Class II Type A2 — 30% exhausted, 70% recirculated |
|---|---|
| Downflow velocity | 0.33 ± 0.025 m/s |
| Inflow velocity | 0.53 ± 0.025 m/s at the tested sash height |
| Sash opening | 12 in / 305 mm standard; 14 in / 356 mm on the 6 ft model |
| Filter | ULPA U15, 99.9995% at 0.12 µm, supply and exhaust |
| Working widths | 4 ft / 1.2 m, 5 ft / 1.5 m, 6 ft / 1.8 m |
| External dimensions | 1300-1800 × 800 × 2250 mm (W × D × H) |
| Internal dimensions | 1150-1625 × 600 × 660 mm (W × D × H) |
| Power | 1800 VA maximum, 230V or 115V single phase |
| Noise | ≤65 dB(A) |
| Illumination | ≥1000 lx at the work surface |
| Certification | NSF/ANSI 49, CE, UKCA, EN 12469 |
Where you would install it
- Vivarium cage changing. Rodent cages pass through a 12-14 in opening without tilting into the air curtain.
- SPF and barrier facilities. Containment of bedding dust and allergens at the point of cage opening.
- Contract research. High-throughput cage change stations where filter loading is continuous.
Frequently asked questions
Will a 12 in opening hold containment?
Yes, at the tested sash height the inflow is still 0.53 m/s and the cabinet is certified at that opening. The alarm monitors the opening, so working above it is flagged.
Can the cabinet be used for cell culture too?
Yes. The A2 Advanced is still a Type A2 cabinet; the larger opening simply makes it less comfortable for seated bench work.
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