CleanroomsUSA

Cleanroom Construction and Design Part 1

Cleanrooms are meticulously designed to maintain consistent airflow with uniform velocity to avoid turbulence. This is achieved through a ducting and fan system connected to high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Prevention

An essential consideration in cleanroom construction is the prevention of electrostatic discharge (ESD), which can damage or contaminate materials. Floors and surfaces are designed to prevent ESD by creating a non-turboelectric environment.

Air Quality and Ventilation Systems

Ventilation and air volume systems are crucial for maintaining air quality and pressurization in a cleanroom. The ventilation system constantly exchanges old air with fresh, filtered air, ensuring a clean and controlled environment.

Pressure and Airflow Management

Cleanrooms are typically maintained at a static pressure higher than atmospheric pressure to prevent the ingress of contaminants. However, when a cleanroom is used for hazardous materials, it must have negative air pressure to prevent contamination from escaping.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Consistent temperature and humidity are vital for stable conditions for materials and instruments. Humidity control is crucial as it can cause corrosion or condensation, damaging products and equipment. Controlling humidity also helps eliminate static electricity.

Modular Cleanrooms

Modular cleanrooms offer a cost-effective solution for small companies or those seeking a quick installation. They come in two varieties: hard-walled and soft-walled.

Hard-walled modular cleanrooms** have rigid construction with walls mounted between posts, increasing internal air pressure volume to minimize contaminants.
Soft-walled modular cleanrooms** have vinyl curtains and can span up to 24 feet between columns. They are simple to install and cost-effective.

All cleanrooms must meet ISO standards. Permanently constructed cleanrooms can achieve the highest ISO classification of 1, while modular cleanrooms, whether hard- or soft-walled, typically meet ISO standards ranging from 5 to 8, depending on construction.

Portable Cleanrooms

Portable cleanrooms, similar to soft-walled modular units, are movable, climate-controlled enclosures for research or fabrication. They can be easily assembled or disassembled on-site without assistance, meeting the growing demand for flexible cleanroom solutions.

These portable cleanrooms are ideal for operations requiring a basic level of environmental control, providing a practical solution for various sensitive tasks.

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