This is the most comprehensive and concise guide to selecting your lab furniture manufacturer. This is the only guide you will need before setting up your own laboratory furniture.
How to Identify Furniture Manufacturers?
Identify the Lab Furniture Manufacturer’s Specialization
- Ensure the manufacturer specifically produces lab furniture.
- Choose manufacturers with their own factories to avoid issues like communication gaps and quality concerns.
- Direct manufacturers can handle problems efficiently, as they oversee the entire production process.
Check the Manufacturer’s Track Record
- Review their years of experience in the industry.
Labkafe has 9+ years of experience in lab furniture manufacturing.
- Examine past projects to assess their expertise.
Labkafe has several past successful projects in prestigious institutes like IITs, NITs, ISRO and IISERs.
View Labkafe past projects in 3D Virtual Reality
Verify Certifications for Credibility
Leading lab furniture manufacturers must adhere to high-standard certifications, which signal quality and credibility:
- ISO (International Organization for Standardization): Ensures the manufacturer meets global standards for quality and safety.
- SEFA (Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association): Certifies manufacturers who meet specific standards for scientific lab furniture.
- BIFMA (Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association): Ensures compliance with standards for safety, durability, and sustainability of furniture.
- GREENGUARD Certification: Confirms products have low chemical emissions, contributing to healthier indoor environments.
- Startup India: Recognizes innovative and scalable startup enterprises in India.
- MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Government of India): Indicates registration with the government, offering credibility and business benefits.
Labkafe has all the above-mentioned credible certifications and accolades.
Contact here to discuss your lab furniture requirements with Labkafe Lab Experts!
Check Presence on Government Platforms
- A manufacturer’s presence on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) ensures transparent and hassle-free transactions under the supervision of the Government of India.
- For national institutes like IISc, IISER, IIT, and NIT, purchasing lab furniture through the GeM portal is mandatory, ensuring compliance and accountability.
Labkafe has established its presence on GeM as an OeM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).
Contact Labkafe Lab Experts for guidance on GeM purchases.
What are the Three Types of Laboratory Benches?
When it comes to lab benches, there are several types commonly used based on design and functionality:
- H-Frame Benches:
These benches feature a sturdy H-shaped frame, offering excellent strength and stability. They are ideal for heavy-duty laboratory tasks that require robust support. - C-Frame Benches:
These have a C-shaped design that provides more legroom and flexibility. They are perfect for laboratories that prioritize ergonomic design and ease of movement. - D-Frame Benches:
D-frame benches are designed for durability and versatility. Their structure allows easy customization and integration of various lab accessories.
What is Laboratory Furniture?
Lab furniture is essential for conducting experiments, performing lab work, and safely placing equipment. The design and materials of the furniture must align with the specific needs of the laboratory to ensure safety, efficiency, and durability.
Key considerations include:
- Material Suitability:
- For chemistry labs, worktops must be acid-resistant to withstand chemical spills. Granite or epoxy resin surfaces are ideal for such environments.
- In biology labs, surfaces should be easy to clean and resistant to microbial growth to maintain hygiene.
- Physics labs may require sturdy benches to support heavy apparatus and prevent vibrations during experiments.
- Durability and Safety:
- Furniture should be constructed from materials that can endure regular use and exposure to chemicals or equipment.
- Rounded edges and sturdy frames enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Functionality and Flexibility:
- Modular furniture allows for easy customization and reconfiguration based on changing lab needs.
- Adequate storage solutions, such as shelves and cabinets, help organize lab tools and materials efficiently.
- Compliance with Standards:
- Furniture must meet ISO industry safety and quality standards to ensure reliable and long-lasting performance.
What is the Size of a Standard Lab Table?
A lab table measuring 700mm x 1500mm is the most commonly used standard size. It offers ample space for multiple users to work together and can easily accommodate various equipment and materials, making it suitable for most laboratory applications.
What Does a Lab Furniture Manufacturer Do?
The Ideal Workflow of Lab Furniture Manufacturers is as follows:
- Initial Sales Consultation:
- A sales representative will connect with you to understand your specific requirements and preferences for the lab setup.
- Site Visit and Measurements:
- An operations specialist will visit your lab space to take accurate measurements.
- These measurements are then shared with the company’s 3D design team for layout planning.
- Design Process:
- The lab designers will first create a 2D layout, followed by a 3D layout based on the measurements you provide.
- Most manufacturers charge INR 2000 for this design service. However, Labkafe, a leading lab furniture manufacturer, offers this service for FREE.
Visit this link to book your free design consultation
- Quotation and Confirmation:
- Once you receive the 3D layout, it will include a detailed quotation outlining the cost of constructing the lab.
- You can review and confirm if you wish to proceed with the construction based on the provided design and cost estimate.
- Manufacturing and Delivery:
- Upon confirmation, materials such as granite, steel tops, or other specified materials are dispatched from the factory.
- To ensure timely deliveries, it is advisable to choose manufacturers with their own factories.
- Labkafe operates its own manufacturing unit to ensure quality and on-time delivery.
Factory Address: Scientheta Innovation Pvt. Ltd.
Why Is Choosing the Right Lab Furniture Manufacturer Important?
Selecting the wrong lab furniture manufacturer can lead to numerous issues, including:
- Rust and Frequent Repairs:
- Without proper powder coating, furniture is prone to rust.
- Labkafe ensures high-quality powder coating and offers a 1-year guarantee against rust or damage.
- If any rusting or damage occurs within this period, Labkafe replaces it free of cost.
- High Design Charges:
- While many manufacturers charge high fees for design services, Labkafe offers this service for FREE.
Contact us today to book your free lab design consultation
- Poor Quality Materials:
- Inferior materials can lead to breakage, frequent repairs, and accidents.
- Poorly designed furniture, like overhead storage cabinets with sharp edges, can pose serious safety risks.
- High Investment Risk:
- Establishing a lab in India costs a minimum of INR 10 lakhs, including furniture and attachments.
- Choosing the wrong manufacturer can lead to losses and constant hassles.
Check Labkafe’s Impressive Projects at various premier institutes like IITs and NITs to see why they are a trusted name in lab furniture manufacturing:
Watch Labkafe in action @ IIT Dharwad
How to Choose the Lab Furniture Manufacturer That’s Right for You?
Your lab is as unique as you are, and no two labs are identical. Each lab has specific requirements that cannot be replaced by another’s standards. It’s crucial that your lab furniture manufacturer understands your exact needs.
At Labkafe, we have written agreements with our clients outlining every requirement and associated cost. This transparency ensures that no stone is left unturned—there are no hidden costs or loopholes.
Key considerations when selecting your lab furniture manufacturer:
- Customization: Ensure the manufacturer takes your specific needs seriously, such as acid-resistant worktops, precise gas and electricity lines, and other specialized requirements.
- Transparency: Written agreements should detail all aspects of your project, eliminating any surprises later on.
- Value Over Price:
- Once your requirements are clearly agreed upon, choose the bidder with the most reasonable and fair price.
- Avoid suppliers with cheap promises, as these can lead to costly issues down the line.
Choose wisely to ensure your lab’s safety, efficiency, and long-term value.
Key Takeaways for Selecting a Lab Furniture Manufacturer
- Specialization & Expertise:
- Choose a manufacturer that exclusively produces lab furniture and has its own factory to ensure quality control and efficient problem-solving.
- Verify years of experience and review past projects/testimonials from reputable institutes.
- Certifications & Credibility:
Ensure the manufacturer holds recognized certifications (ISO, SEFA, BIFMA, GREENGUARD, Startup India, MSME) to guarantee high standards of quality and safety. - Transparent Processes:
- Look for written agreements that clearly detail requirements and costs, avoiding hidden fees or loopholes.
- Verify their presence on government platforms like GeM for transparent, hassle-free transactions.
- Customization & Material Suitability:
- Confirm that the manufacturer can meet specific lab requirements such as acid-resistant worktops, and proper gas/electricity line integrations.
- Ensure materials and design are chosen to withstand the lab environment, preventing frequent repairs or accidents.
- Design & Manufacturing Workflow:
- Evaluate the manufacturer’s workflow: initial consultation, site measurements, 2D/3D design process (preferably offered for free), quotation, and on-time manufacturing/delivery.
- Long-Term Value:
- Prioritize quality and reliability over low-cost promises to protect your investment and ensure a safe, efficient lab environment.
Labkafe exemplifies these qualities by offering transparent agreements, a proven track record, and complimentary design services, making it a trusted choice for setting up high-standard laboratory environments.
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