Choosing the Right Cleanroom Walls
Selecting the right cleanroom walls is a critical part of designing a cleanroom, as they contribute to contamination control, durability, and ease of cleaning. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing cleanroom walls.
Compliance with Cleanroom Standards
The cleanroom classification (ISO 1 to ISO 9) will determine the wall material and construction methods. For example, walls for ISO 1 to ISO 5 cleanrooms, which require stricter contamination control, will need to be made of materials that are non-shedding, smooth, and easy to clean to prevent particle buildup.
Material Type
- Stainless Steel – Durable, corrosion-resistant, and non-porous, stainless steel is ideal for environments requiring the highest level of cleanliness and frequent cleaning. They are used in high-grade cleanrooms (ISO 1 to ISO 5) such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotech, and medical device production, where sterility is critical.
- Aluminium – Being lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminium offers a balance of strength and flexibility, making it easy to install and reconfigure. It is best used for modular cleanrooms, research labs, or ISO 6 to ISO 8 cleanrooms that may need frequent layout changes or flexibility in design.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – A cost-effective, lightweight, and chemical-resistant plastic material that is easy to install and maintain. It is suitable for lower-class cleanrooms (ISO 8 to ISO 9), packaging, and electronics manufacturing environments where cleanliness is important, but sterility is not critical.
- Fiberglass Reinforced Panels (FRP) – Tough, impact-resistant panels with excellent moisture and chemical resistance, ideal for harsh or wet environments. Ideal for industrial cleanrooms, pharmaceutical production, or food processing environments that require frequent washing and exposure to chemicals.
Durability and Resistance
- Chemical Resistance – Some cleanrooms, particularly in pharmaceutical or chemical industries, require walls that can resist frequent exposure to strong disinfectants, chemicals, or solvents.
- Impact Resistance – In environments where there is heavy equipment or frequent movement of trolleys, walls should be resistant to impact and damage. Reinforced modular panels, stainless steel, or durable composite materials work well in such cases.
- Moisture and Corrosion Resistance – For cleanrooms with high humidity or those in which water-based cleaning is frequent, materials that resist corrosion and moisture, like stainless steel or PVC panels, should be prioritized.
- Fire Resistance – Fire safety regulations are critical in cleanroom environments, particularly in industries dealing with volatile chemicals or electronics. Walls made from fire-resistant materials such as steel or specialized fire-rated composite panels should be considered.
Seamless and Smooth Surfaces
Wall surfaces should be seamless, smooth, and free of cracks or gaps where dust and particles can accumulate. Choose walls with minimal joints and flush surfaces that can easily be wiped down. Modular wall panels that use hidden fasteners and seamless joint systems are ideal for this purpose.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Walls in cleanrooms must be easy to clean and sanitize regularly without degradation. Non-porous materials that don’t absorb contaminants, chemicals, or moisture are critical. Look for walls that can withstand repeated cleaning cycles without becoming scratched or damaged.
Cost
The cost of cleanroom wall systems can vary widely depending on the material and complexity. Modular panels are generally more cost-effective for construction and future scalability, while high-end materials like stainless steel may have a higher initial cost but offer greater longevity and durability.
