The FSTC operates a state-of-the-art Commercial Kitchen Ventilation (CKV) Laboratory for conducting ventilation research. Flow visualization techniques are used to determine a hood/appliance system's capture and containment performance under numerous, varying conditions. The primary tool for visualization is a focusing Schlieren optical system. As shown in the photo below, the system captures visual evidence that is undetectible to the naked eye.



Research at the ventilation lab has resulted in numerous industry publications, including the development of three Commercial Kitchen Ventilation Design Guides, available for download here. The ventilation lab is currently being incorporated into the FSTC's primary testing facilities in San Ramon, CA.

- Demand Ventilation
- Kitchen Ventilation Design   Guides
- Outdoor Air Load Calculator
- Kitchen Ventilation   Publications