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Common Clean Room FAQ’s

30th Jun 2016

Have questions on clean room design or clean room supplies? At SOS Clean Room, we’ve got answers! Since 1990, we’ve been an industry leader in the distribution of clean room supplies for a variety of industries including medical, commercial and industrial. Browse common clean room questions below or contact our professionals today!

How Does A Clean Room Work?

A clean room provides a controlled and confined environment for a variety of industries and manufacturing companies. They are specifically designed to handle contamination-sensitive material that could be hazardous to people and the environment. By working in a controlled and sanitary space, there is less risk of accidental contamination.

What Is The Difference Between Hardwall & Softwall Clean Rooms?

The two most common types of clean rooms are hardwall and softwall. Hardwall clean rooms, as you can imagine, feature a rigid wall structure that is completely enclosed. These modular rooms can be completely disassembled and moved if needed, making them a convenient option for smaller manufacturing companies.

Softwall clean rooms tend to be ideal for quick construction and easy expansion. Also known as process isolators, this type of enclosure utilizes flexible vinyl curtains and is ideal for dust and sound control. They can also be used to divide sections of existing clean rooms for a more efficient flow.

How Do I Find Out Which Clean Room Classification My Business Needs?

Two of the most important questions to consider when constructing a clean room is: what is the smallest size particle that will need to be filtered out? And, what is the lowest acceptable particle count? While most industries have default classifications that can easily be found online, it’s important to select the most appropriate classification for you. With a little research in your designated field, a general classification guide can be a huge help in taking the first steps to building a clean room.

What Are Positive-Pressure Modular Clean Rooms?

Positive-pressure modular clean rooms are specifically designed to protect the environment within the clean room. These rooms will typically utilize ceiling mounted fans to force HEPA or ULPA filtered air into the room. These fans will create internal air pressure, aiding in the reduction of particulate encroachment around doors and small unsealed areas.

What Are Negative-Pressure Modular Clean Rooms?

Negative-pressure modular clean rooms are specially constructed to keep pollutants generated within the clean room from escaping to the outside environment. A common design of these clean rooms utilizes exhaust systems and HEPA filters to expel internal contaminated air by funneling it to a secure location. The exhaust system forms negative pressure that protects the external environment of the clean room from escaping contaminants.

What Is An Environmental Room?

Environmental rooms, also known as white rooms, are very similar to clean rooms. The requirements for an environmental room are not as stringent as clean rooms and can typically cost less to produce. These rooms are ideal for applications like packaging rooms because they must be built separately and maintain their own temperature and pressure.