How Does a Cleanroom Work?
A cleanroom is a highly controlled environment designed to minimize the presence of airborne particles, such as dust, microorganisms, and other contaminants. These rooms are used in various industries where high levels of cleanliness are critical, including semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical device production, and aerospace. Here's how a cleanroom works:
Air Filtration:The primary mechanism for maintaining cleanliness in a cleanroom is through a multi-stage air filtration system. Air enters the room through High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters or Ultra-Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters that can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency rate of 99.97% or higher. In some cases, pre-filters may also be used to remove larger particles before the air reaches the HEPA/ULPA filters.
Air Flow Control: Cleanrooms use laminar or turbulent airflow systems to control the movement of air within the space. Laminar flow creates a unidirectional flow from ceiling to floor, which helps sweep away any particles that might be generated within the room. Turbulent flow uses multiple diffusers to create a constant mixing of air to maintain uniform cleanliness throughout the room.
Positive Pressure: Many cleanrooms maintain a slightly positive pressure compared to surrounding areas to prevent unfiltered air from entering the clean area when doors are opened. This pressurization is achieved by continuously pumping filtered air into the room.
Room Design and Materials: The construction materials used in cleanrooms are typically smooth, non-porous, and easy to clean. The layout minimizes obstacles and corners where particles could accumulate. Additionally, equipment and processes are designed to generate minimal contamination.
Personnel Controls: Anyone entering the cleanroom must wear special protective clothing like bunny suits (full-body coveralls), gloves, hair covers, face masks or respirators, and shoe covers. They follow strict procedures for gowning and exiting to avoid bringing contaminants inside.
Regular Monitoring and Cleaning: Cleanrooms are regularly checked using particle counters to ensure they meet the required cleanliness standards. Surfaces are cleaned with specialized solvents and methods to reduce particle buildup.
Cleanroom functions through a combination of meticulous environmental controls, advanced air handling systems, stringent procedural protocols, and continuous monitoring to provide an ultra-clean environment necessary for sensitive manufacturing processes and scientific research.
Suzhou Pharma Machinery Co.,Ltd.
2024/02/27
Spencer
