Ventilation technology in clean rooms

A cleanroom is an area where air quality is strictly controlled to prevent contamination from dust, particles, and microorganisms. The concentration of these contaminants is kept at a defined level that is necessary for the specific application. Cleanrooms are used in many industries, such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, semiconductors, and food processing.

There are different types of cleanrooms, which can be categorized according to different classifications. A common classification differentiates according to ISO classes:

• ISO 1 to ISO 5: These cleanrooms require the highest air purity and are used, for example, in the semiconductor industry and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• ISO 6 to ISO 9: These cleanrooms have less stringent air purity requirements and are used, for example, in medical technology and the food industry.
• ISO classes 8 and 9: These cleanrooms require the lowest air purity and are used, for example, in assembly and manufacturing.

A cleanroom ventilation system consists of several components that work together to control air quality. The most important components include:

• Air intake: Air is drawn in from the surrounding environment and pre-filtered to remove coarse contaminants.
• Filtration: The air is passed through various filter stages to remove dust, particles, and microorganisms.
• Fans: Fans generate airflow through the cleanroom and transport the purified air to the air outlets.
• Air outlets: The purified air is distributed evenly throughout the cleanroom via air outlets.
• Climate control: The temperature and humidity in the cleanroom are regulated to create optimal conditions for the specific application.
• Control system: The entire ventilation system is monitored and controlled by a control system to maintain constant air quality.

Filter technology plays a crucial role in maintaining air purity in cleanrooms. There are different types of filters that can remove various contaminants. Some of the most common filters include:

• Particulate filters: These filters remove dust and particles from the air.
• HEPA filters (High Efficiency Particulate Air): HEPA filters remove particles with a size of 0.3 microns and larger with an efficiency of 99.97%.
• ULPA filters (Ultra Low Penetration Air): ULPA filters remove particles with a size of 0.1 microns and larger with an efficiency of 99.999%.
• Gas filters: Gas filters remove gases and vapours from the air.