The Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA is a four-foot benchtop laboratory balance enclosure designed to protect personnel during the weighing, transfer, and handling of hazardous powders and airborne particulates. Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this specialized containment workstation combines an integrated impeller, dual HEPA filtration, and recirculating airflow to provide a practical solution for pharmaceutical research, analytical chemistry, powder weighing, and other laboratory applications requiring localized particulate containment.
A distinguishing feature of the ETA483024ABA is its bag-in/bag-out HEPA filter replacement system, which helps reduce potential exposure to collected contaminants during filter servicing. The enclosure also incorporates a secondary HEPA filter between the primary filtration stage and the motorized impeller, providing an additional barrier during filter replacement.
With its nominal four-foot width, the Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA provides more working room than compact two- and three-foot balance enclosures while retaining a benchtop configuration. Its integrated airflow and filtration system also allows recirculating operation for suitable particulate-handling applications without requiring a separate building exhaust blower.
Key Features
Used and refurbished Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA balance enclosure
Four-foot-wide benchtop containment workstation
Designed for personnel protection during powder weighing and handling
Dual HEPA filtration design
Listed particulate removal efficiency of 99.99% at 0.3 microns
Integrated high-speed, energy-efficient impeller
Recirculating airflow configuration
Bag-in/bag-out HEPA filter replacement system
Secondary HEPA filter located between the primary filter and impeller
Easy-Lock front filter-access system
Tool-free filter securing mechanism
Spacious work area for laboratory balances and powder-handling accessories
No separate external blower required for standard recirculating operation
Used and reconditioned by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Overview of the Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA
The Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA is designed for laboratory procedures where powders or other fine particulates may become airborne during routine handling.
Activities such as transferring powdered reagents, weighing pharmaceutical ingredients, dispensing dry chemicals, and preparing analytical samples can release airborne particles into the laboratory environment.
A specialized balance containment enclosure helps reduce this exposure by maintaining inward airflow through the work opening and directing contaminated air toward a filtration system.
The ETA483024ABA incorporates an integrated impeller and dual HEPA filtration, allowing it to operate as a self-contained recirculating enclosure for suitable particulate applications.
Its four-foot width provides additional workspace for analytical balances, sample containers, weighing vessels, and other accessories commonly used in pharmaceutical and analytical laboratories.
Dual HEPA Filtration for Personnel Protection
The Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA uses a dual HEPA filtration system designed to capture fine airborne particles generated during laboratory procedures.
American Instrument Exchange lists particulate removal efficiency of 99.99% at 0.3 microns for this enclosure.
During operation, the integrated impeller draws air through the enclosure and its filtration system. Airborne particulates are captured by the HEPA media before filtered air is returned to the surrounding laboratory.
The dual-filter arrangement provides an additional containment barrier, particularly during maintenance and filter replacement.
This design is especially valuable for laboratories handling pharmaceutical powders, fine chemical reagents, and other materials where minimizing operator exposure is important.
HEPA filtration captures particles but does not remove most chemical vapors or gases. The ETA483024ABA should therefore not be treated as a general-purpose ductless chemical fume hood for volatile solvents.
Bag-In/Bag-Out HEPA Filter Replacement
One of the most important features of the ETA483024ABA is its bag-in/bag-out filtration system.
During normal operation, hazardous powders and other airborne particles may accumulate on the primary HEPA filter. Removing a contaminated filter without appropriate precautions can expose maintenance personnel to collected materials.
The bag-in/bag-out arrangement is designed to facilitate controlled removal and replacement of the filter while reducing the potential for contamination to escape into the laboratory.
This is particularly useful in pharmaceutical, chemical, and toxicology laboratories where collected particles may require special handling or disposal.
Filter changes should be performed by appropriately trained personnel using the manufacturer's procedures and the laboratory's established safety protocols.
Secondary HEPA Filter for Additional Containment
The ETA483024ABA incorporates a secondary HEPA filter positioned between the primary HEPA filter and the motorized impeller.
This additional filter is intended to capture particles that might migrate downstream during primary filter removal or replacement.
The secondary filtration stage helps provide an additional barrier between contaminated filter media and the air-moving components of the enclosure.
This configuration distinguishes the ETA483024ABA from simpler single-filter laboratory enclosures and may be particularly valuable where controlled filter servicing is an important part of the laboratory's safety program.
The installed filters should be evaluated for condition and integrity before the enclosure is used for hazardous procedures.
Easy-Lock Filter Access System
The Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA incorporates an Easy-Lock system accessible through the front panel.
According to the AIE listing, this mechanism secures the filter without requiring tools for the locking operation.
Convenient front access can simplify filter servicing and reduce the amount of enclosure disassembly required during maintenance.
When combined with the bag-in/bag-out design and secondary HEPA filter, the Easy-Lock system supports controlled filter handling and more convenient maintenance.
Proper filter seating and seal integrity remain essential to effective containment.
Integrated Impeller and Recirculating Airflow
The ETA483024ABA includes a high-speed, energy-efficient impeller that generates airflow through the enclosure and HEPA filtration system.
This integrated air-moving system allows the enclosure to operate without a separately purchased external exhaust blower in its standard recirculating configuration.
During operation, air is drawn inward through the front opening, helping direct airborne particulates away from the operator and toward the filtration system.
After filtration, air is returned to the laboratory.
This arrangement can simplify installation in facilities where adding new building exhaust ductwork would be difficult or expensive.
However, recirculating operation must be appropriate for the materials being handled. Laboratories should evaluate the hazards, potential airborne concentrations, filter performance, and required containment level before selecting a recirculating enclosure.
Four-Foot Workspace for Balance Applications
The nominal four-foot width of the ETA483024ABA provides a useful balance between workspace capacity and benchtop installation.
The enclosure can accommodate many laboratory weighing and sample preparation workflows while providing room for sample containers, weighing vessels, spatulas, and other accessories.
This additional working space may be particularly beneficial when operators need to weigh multiple samples, transfer powders between containers, or organize several materials within a contained area.
Because analytical balances are sensitive to vibration and air movement, the enclosure should be installed on a stable, level work surface.
Laboratories should also evaluate balance compatibility and weighing performance under normal operating airflow before using the enclosure for highly sensitive measurements.
Common Applications
The Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA is designed for laboratory procedures involving powders and airborne particulates where personnel protection is required.
Potential applications include pharmaceutical ingredient weighing, dry reagent preparation, powdered chemical transfers, analytical sample preparation, toxicology research, environmental sample processing, formulation development, and laboratory quality control.
The enclosure may also be suitable for other particulate-generating procedures where a dedicated containment workstation is preferable to an open laboratory bench.
For highly potent pharmaceutical compounds or materials with stringent occupational exposure limits, the laboratory should verify that the complete enclosure meets the required containment performance for the specific application.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The ETA483024ABA is suitable for consideration in pharmaceutical research and development laboratories, analytical chemistry facilities, biotechnology laboratories, toxicology research facilities, environmental testing laboratories, industrial quality control departments, and university research laboratories.
Its four-foot configuration is particularly attractive for facilities that need more workspace than a compact balance enclosure but do not require a larger floor-standing containment system.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Flow Sciences
Model
ETA483024ABA
AIE Product Code
2904P HOOD
Product Type
HEPA-Filtered Balance Containment Enclosure
Nominal Width
4 feet
Configuration
Benchtop
Primary Application
Powder weighing and particulate containment
Airflow Type
Recirculating
Air-Moving System
Integrated high-speed impeller
Filtration
Dual HEPA
Listed Filtration Efficiency
99.99% at 0.3 microns
Filter Replacement
Bag-in/bag-out
Filter Access
Easy-Lock front access
Secondary HEPA Filter
Located between primary filter and impeller
External Exhaust Blower
Not required for standard recirculating operation
Exterior Dimensions
Confirm for individual unit
Interior Dimensions
Confirm for individual unit
Nominal Face Velocity
Verify from model-specific documentation
Electrical Requirements
Confirm from equipment nameplate
Work Surface
Verify installed configuration
Filter Condition
Confirm before hazardous use
Condition
Used and reconditioned
Warranty
90 days
Balance Enclosure vs. Conventional Chemical Fume Hood
A specialized balance enclosure and a conventional chemical fume hood are designed to address different laboratory hazards and operating requirements.
The Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA is intended primarily for particulate containment during powder weighing and related procedures.
Its HEPA filtration system captures airborne particles and allows recirculating operation for suitable applications.
A conventional chemical fume hood is generally designed to capture and exhaust hazardous chemical vapors, fumes, and gases through a building ventilation system.
Because HEPA filters do not remove most chemical vapors, the ETA483024ABA should not be used as a substitute for a conventional chemical fume hood when handling volatile solvents or other vapor-generating substances.
The appropriate enclosure should be selected based on the material being handled, the type of exposure hazard, and the required containment performance.
Comparing the ETA483024ABA with Smaller Flow Sciences Enclosures
The ETA483024ABA shares several design characteristics with smaller Flow Sciences containment enclosures, including integrated airflow, HEPA filtration, and controlled filter replacement.
Its primary advantage is its nominal four-foot workspace.
Compared with a three-foot enclosure such as the Flow Sciences FS11300, the ETA483024ABA provides additional room for laboratory balances, sample containers, and powder-handling accessories.
This can be valuable when performing repetitive sample preparation procedures or working with larger weighing vessels.
Laboratories should compare the actual interior dimensions, work-surface configuration, and airflow requirements of each model before selecting the enclosure best suited to their workflow.
Installation and Airflow Verification
Proper installation is essential for effective personnel containment and reliable weighing performance.
The ETA483024ABA should be positioned on a stable supporting surface with adequate clearance for operation, cleaning, and filter servicing.
Because the enclosure incorporates an integrated impeller, a separate building exhaust blower is not required for its intended recirculating configuration.
The laboratory should confirm electrical compatibility, verify the condition and installation of the HEPA filters, and evaluate airflow performance before using the enclosure for hazardous materials.
Final airflow verification and appropriate HEPA filter integrity testing should be completed after installation.
For applications involving highly potent compounds, additional containment testing may be necessary to demonstrate that the complete workstation meets the laboratory's exposure-control requirements.
Refurbishment and Testing
This Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA is used and reconditioned by American Instrument Exchange.
Our technicians inspect the enclosure's structural condition, integrated impeller, filter housing, access components, and other applicable operating features. The unit is cleaned and prepared for shipment as part of the refurbishment process.
The dual HEPA filtration system and bag-in/bag-out filter replacement mechanism are important components of this model and should be evaluated before the enclosure is placed into hazardous service.
Final airflow verification, filter integrity testing, and any required containment qualification should be completed after installation.
Shipping and Laboratory Setup
The four-foot benchtop configuration provides a practical option for laboratories requiring a larger powder-handling workstation without installing a full-size chemical fume hood.
Before purchase, laboratories should confirm the enclosure's actual exterior dimensions, electrical requirements, supporting surface capacity, and available clearance for maintenance.
American Instrument Exchange can provide additional information and photographs of the individual unit to help customers evaluate its suitability for their laboratory.
Related Laboratory Equipment
American Instrument Exchange supplies a broad selection of refurbished analytical and precision balances for laboratory weighing applications, along with specialized containment enclosures for hazardous powder handling.
For laboratories requiring chemical vapor exhaust rather than particulate filtration, AIE also offers chemical fume hoods.
Additional containment equipment includes biosafety cabinets and clean benches, which serve different personnel, product, and environmental protection requirements.
Why Buy a Refurbished Flow Sciences Enclosure from American Instrument Exchange?
Purchasing a refurbished Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA can provide laboratories with a cost-effective alternative to new specialized powder containment equipment.
The four-foot workspace, integrated impeller, dual HEPA filtration, and bag-in/bag-out filter replacement system make this enclosure an attractive option for laboratories requiring particulate containment with convenient maintenance access.
American Instrument Exchange specializes in used and refurbished laboratory equipment, helping pharmaceutical, research, industrial, and educational laboratories obtain equipment at a lower cost than purchasing new.
This Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA designed for?
The ETA483024ABA is a four-foot balance containment enclosure designed to protect laboratory personnel during powder weighing, reagent transfers, and other procedures that may generate airborne particulates.
Does the ETA483024ABA include a blower?
The enclosure incorporates an integrated high-speed impeller as part of its recirculating airflow system. A separate external exhaust blower is not required for standard recirculating operation.
Does the enclosure use HEPA filtration?
Yes. The ETA483024ABA incorporates a dual HEPA filtration design with a listed particulate removal efficiency of 99.99% at 0.3 microns.
What is the purpose of the secondary HEPA filter?
The secondary HEPA filter is located between the primary filter and the motorized impeller. It is intended to capture particles that might migrate downstream during primary filter servicing or replacement.
What is the bag-in/bag-out system?
The bag-in/bag-out system is designed to allow trained personnel to remove and replace contaminated HEPA filters while reducing potential exposure to collected hazardous materials.
Does the ETA483024ABA require external ductwork?
Not for appropriate standard recirculating particulate applications. The integrated impeller draws air through the filtration system and returns HEPA-filtered air to the laboratory.
Can an analytical balance be used inside the enclosure?
Yes. The ETA483024ABA is identified as a balance enclosure and is intended for laboratory weighing applications. Balance dimensions, sensitivity, and weighing performance should be evaluated for the intended installation.
Can the enclosure be used for pharmaceutical powders?
Potentially, yes. The enclosure is designed for particulate containment and may be appropriate for pharmaceutical powder handling. Suitability for a specific compound depends on the required exposure-control performance and verified containment capability.
Can the ETA483024ABA be used for chemical vapors?
HEPA filtration captures airborne particles but does not remove most chemical vapors or gases. Procedures involving volatile solvents generally require an appropriately designed chemical fume hood or another suitable ventilation system.
What is the difference between the ETA483024ABA and the FS11300?
Both are Flow Sciences particulate containment enclosures with integrated airflow and dual HEPA filtration. The ETA483024ABA offers a nominal four-foot workspace, while the FS11300 is a more compact three-foot enclosure.
Does the enclosure require testing after installation?
Appropriate airflow verification and HEPA filter integrity testing should be completed before hazardous use. Additional containment qualification may be required depending on the laboratory's application.
Does this refurbished Flow Sciences enclosure include a warranty?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange includes a 90-day warranty with the Flow Sciences ETA483024ABA.
Click Hereto see the Flow Sciences enclosure on the American Instrument Exchange YouTube channel.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Equipment
Ensure Accuracy, Safety, and Dependable Performance Across Applications
At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished laboratory equipment undergoes a rigorous, multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, operational safety, and long-term reliability. Whether the equipment is destined for research, diagnostics, quality control, or production environments, our thorough inspection and testing process is designed to meet the highest standards of laboratory excellence.
Why Testing Used Lab Equipment Is Essential
Before any refurbished laboratory equipment is returned to service, it must be carefully tested to verify:
• Functional integrity and operational performance
• Setpoint accuracy and repeatability (where applicable)
• User interface responsiveness and control features
Proper testing reduces the risk of equipment failure, measurement inaccuracies, or user hazards—helping to ensure consistent results in clinical, academic, biotech, and industrial labs.
Our standardized lab equipment testing procedures are tailored to each equipment type, ensuring every unit meets manufacturer specifications and industry benchmarks.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Equipment
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Examine equipment housing for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check ports, power cords, and exterior components for tampering or deterioration
• Verify that internal and external parts (racks, shelves, connectors, accessories) are present and undamaged
2. Functional Startup and Operational Testing
• Power on the equipment and verify startup diagnostics
• Confirm functionality of displays, buttons, switches, and control panels
• Run basic functions to confirm proper response and behavior under standard operating conditions
3. Testing and Performance Verification
• Test internal sensors or control systems using industry-standard tools
• Perform operational tests to validate accuracy and consistency
• Verify key performance specifications such as temperature control, timing, speed, or measurement outputs, depending on equipment type
4. Mechanical and Electrical System Testing
• Evaluate motors, pumps, fans, or other moving parts for smooth operation
• Inspect and test wiring, relays, fuses, and circuit boards for safety and reliability
• Test power delivery and grounding compliance
5. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure equipment is grounded and insulated to meet laboratory safety standards
• Test alarms, interlocks, emergency stops, or safety shutdown systems if applicable
6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Perform extended runtime testing
• Document operational logs, testing results, and any repairs or adjustments made
• Complete a final inspection, thorough cleaning, and packaging for delivery
Trusted Quality from American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in laboratory equipment refurbishment, American Instrument Exchange is committed to delivering certified, lab-ready instruments backed by expert testing. Our testing protocols ensure that each piece of equipment—regardless of type—is safe, accurate, and dependable from day one.
Whether you're equipping a startup lab or expanding a high-throughput facility, you can count on our refurbished laboratory equipment to perform with precision and reliability.
Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Equipment from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every piece of used laboratory equipment we offer undergoes a multi-step refurbishment process. Whether it's an analytical balance, centrifuge, freezer, oven, or any other essential lab instrument, our goal is to restore each unit to peak performance—ensuring accuracy, safety, and long-term reliability in scientific, clinical, industrial, and academic environments.
Why Choose Refurbished Lab Equipment from American Instrument Exchange?
• Thoroughly tested for performance, precision, and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every instrument and system refurbished at American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, industry-aligned process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Complete visual and structural inspection for cosmetic damage, wear, or corrosion
• Mechanical assessment of hinges, seals, fasteners, motors, and moving parts
• Missing components and damaged items are documented for repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe solutions
• Removal of biological, chemical, or particulate contamination
• Disassembly and cleaning of removable parts such as trays, shelves, and filters
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Replacement or repair of worn or broken mechanical parts
• Evaluation and servicing of control panels, sensors, switches, and displays
• Testing and repair of electrical wiring, fuses, circuit boards, and power supplies
4. Functional System Testing
• Assessment of all major functions specific to the equipment type (e.g., speed, temperature, force, weight, timing)
• Operation of control interfaces, programming menus, and digital displays
• Verification of stabilization time, responsiveness, and user input reliability
5. Testing and Performance Verification
• Testing of internal sensors, controllers, and measurement systems using certified tools
• Multi-point testing to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and performance consistency
• Confirmation of user-defined setpoints, timing sequences, or programmable cycles
6. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Testing of safety interlocks, alarms, and over-limit protection systems (as applicable)
• Electrical safety inspections, including grounding and insulation verification
7. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Full operational testing under simulated lab conditions
• Completion of performance benchmarks, testing results, and repair logs
• Final cleaning and visual inspection
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in the laboratory equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted leader in high-quality refurbished lab instruments. Our refurbishment protocols ensure that every piece of equipment we sell is lab-ready—offering the precision, performance, and durability your team can count on.
Whether you’re outfitting a new lab or expanding an existing operation, choose American Instrument Exchange for tested, warrantied, and cost-effective laboratory equipment.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
