Air shower (room)

Cleanroom air shower

Air shower (room) is a specialized antechamber which serves as a gateway for personnel or objects to enter a cleanroom or other controlled environment. Air showers are designed to minimize the entry of particulate contamination into a clean space by using high-velocity jets of air to remove dust, microbial particles, and other contaminants from surfaces, clothing, or material surfaces. The primary function of an air shower is to protect the cleanroom environment from unwanted contamination by ensuring that individuals and items are properly cleaned before entry.

Function and Design

The design of an air shower focuses on the efficient removal of contaminants from people and objects before they enter a clean environment. This is achieved through the use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) or ultra-low penetration air (ULPA) filters, which trap particles as small as 0.3 micrometers with an efficiency of 99.97% or higher. The air shower cycle typically involves the activation of air jets upon entry, which blow filtered air at high speeds, dislodging particles from surfaces. The contaminated air is then recirculated through the filters, ensuring that only clean air is blown onto the subjects.

Types of Air Showers

Air showers can be categorized based on their configuration, usage, and the direction of airflow. Common types include:

• Personnel Air Showers: Designed for individuals entering or exiting clean areas. These showers can accommodate one or more persons at a time.
• Material Air Showers: Larger units designed for the decontamination of materials or equipment before they enter a cleanroom.
• Cargo Air Showers: Specifically designed for large items or pallets of goods, often featuring doors on both ends to facilitate the movement of goods.

Operation

The operation of an air shower is typically automated, initiated by the opening of doors or by sensors detecting entry. The duration of the air shower cycle can vary but is generally set to a length sufficient to remove an adequate level of contamination. Users are required to stand still during the cycle to ensure maximum exposure to the clean air jets.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation of air showers requires careful planning to integrate effectively with existing cleanroom operations. Considerations include the placement for optimal workflow, the size of the air shower relative to the number of users, and compatibility with the cleanroom's classification. Regular maintenance of air showers is crucial to ensure their effective operation. This includes the replacement of HEPA/ULPA filters, inspection and cleaning of pre-filters, and checks on the air jets and sensors.

Applications

Air showers are used in a variety of industries where cleanroom conditions are necessary, including semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, biotechnology, and in some hospital settings, particularly in operating rooms or research labs. They play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the cleanroom environment, thereby ensuring the quality and safety of the products manufactured or the procedures performed within these spaces.

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