How to set up a cleanroom

Setting up a cleanroomThis is achieved through a combination of measures:1) Airflow is controlled using ultra-low penetration air (ULPA) and/or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.2) The room is constructed using carefully selected materials that will not produce or retain environmental contaminants. This includes air-locked entrances and exits.3) All individuals using the room must be appropriately dressed using coveralls, hoods, gloves, boots and face-masks. Let’s look at some of the equipment needed during the set up.HEPA and ULPA filtersHEPA filters use a randomly constructed mat of fibres that filters out 99.97% of particles that are greater than 0.3 microns in diameter. ULPA filters remove 99.999% of particles greater than 0.12 microns in diameter. These filters are used to maintain near-constant air processing that pushes airborne particles down towards the floor where they are trapped by filters and sucked out of the room. HVAC systemsHVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. These systems are used to control the temperature and humidity of the cleanroom. Most rooms require constant cooling due the heat produced by the air filtration devices, the lighting and the working processes. The heat level must also be controlled to maintain a comfortable working temperature for staff members. Often wearing protective coveralls over their clothes, workers require a temperature range of 72-75F. Similarly, humidity control is required to avoid corrosion of materials, condensation on work areas and to maintain personnel comfort. A comfortable humidity range for workers is between 30 and 70%.Mats and flooringDust/particle-collecting mats and flooring is used as another method of contamination prevention in such rroms. These special peel-off surfaces are high-adhesive and provide another way to remove particles pushed towards the floor by air filtration systems. FurnitureCleanrooms are expensive so space is at a premium. Any furniture employed in a cleanroom should be stainless steel and designed to limit any interference with the air flow. This is usually achieved by having solid vertical faces but perforated horizontal surfaces to allow air to pass through more easily. Often items like stainless steel tables and trolleys are used. Stainless steel offers high hygiene standards that meeting clean room requirements.Protective clothingSpecially-designed apparel is used to prevent any contamination attributed to the human body. This can include gloves, over-shoes, boots, face-masks, goggles and coveralls. All of these precautions are brought into focus when we think about what cleanrooms are used for. They  can be setup for processes as varied as analysing rocks from the moon to installing microchips into missile systems that are used to deliver nuclear warheads. This is why they must adhere to the strictest industry standards.