Managing Changing Cleanroom Operations

Cleanrooms are designed to insure the area meets the necessary requirements of the clean production process. But what happens when the product changes and a different manufacturing process must be put in place along with new cleanroom requirements? A similar dilemma can occur if production needs require that the clean manufacturing space double or triple because of product demand. Such needs can be addressed by modular cleanroom constructions that allow revision or expansion to meet the evolving prerequisites.

In relation to this subject Bryan Sanderford has written an interesting article for Controlled Environments magazine.

Here is an extract:

“Choosing the right door interlock system can involve both construction limitations and building code requirements. Some locations may not allow any doors to be locked to permit free egress at any time. While this unlocked scenario provides for personnel safety, door violations may become a common occurrence. This has been addressed with the use of red/green traffic lights mounted on either side of the doors to indicate when access is allowed. Adding a built-in sounder which annunciates an improper opening can minimize such actions.

Some cleanrooms require a pressurized air system to maintain the sterile environment. This may force doors to utilize a timed delay before the second door can be opened. This re-pressurization of the interlock could be a simple timer or may incorporate a monitored pressure switch. While the air is pressurized, traffic indicator lights might be employed to provide user feedback.”

The article can be read on-line here.

Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle