
10 Aug What is a Softwall Cleanroom? Definition and Comparisons
Learning about the world of cleanrooms can be daunting if you’re just getting started. You’re tasked with finding the perfect cleanroom for your facility, but the options are overwhelming. There’s hardwall, modular, and softwall cleanrooms. How do you choose the right one? In this article, we’ll cover what softwall cleanrooms are, compare them with the other types of cleanrooms, share some of their applications, and more.
What is a Softwall Cleanroom?
A softwall cleanroom is a controlled environment that uses flexible vinyl curtains as walls (hence the term “softwall”). These curtains hang from a metal frame, together creating an enclosed area. Softwall spaces typically use HEPA/ULPA filters and fan filter units (FFUs) in the ceiling that help remove and keep out contaminants. The primary purpose of a softwall cleanroom, like any other cleanroom, is to control the size and number of airborne particles within the space.
Materials and Construction
Softwall cleanrooms can be customized in a variety of ways. The metal frame of softwall cleanrooms is typically steel or aluminum. The curtains, as we have mentioned already, are vinyl, and they can be treated to be either anti-static or static-dissipative, among other custom features. The frame can even be put on casters (wheels) to be moved around if necessary.
Comparison with Hardwall and Modular Cleanrooms
Understanding the differences between softwall, hardwall, and modular cleanrooms is important for choosing the right type for your application. In this section, we’ll show a few of the most important ways in which they differ.
Softwall Cleanrooms | Hardwall Cleanrooms | Modular Cleanrooms | |
---|---|---|---|
Wall Type | Flexible vinyl curtains. | Solid walls (e.g., glass, aluminum, stainless steel). | Can be either hardwall or softwall. |
Flexibility | Flexible, easy to reconfigure. | Less adaptable once installed, but very durable. | Highly flexible, easily assembled, disassembled, or reconfigured. |
Cost | Least expensive option. | More expensive due to strict requirements and materials. | Generally less expensive than hardwall. Varies widely based on complexity and materials. |
Maintenance | Requires more frequent maintenance due to wear and tear. | Requires less maintenance, strong and durable. | Maintenance depends on materials and design. |
ISO Classes | Typically used for less strict classes (ISO 7 or ISO 8). | Suitable for the strictest ISO classes, better at particle control. | Can meet various ISO classes depending on configuration. |
Air Recirculation | Usually no recirculating air. | Can include recirculating air systems. | Can be designed to include recirculating air if needed. |
Flexibility
Softwall cleanrooms are the most flexible, which allows for easy reconfiguration and expansion. (They can even be put on wheels, after all.) Hardwall cleanrooms, on the other hand, while stronger and more durable, may be less adaptable once installed. As we mentioned before, softwall cleanrooms and hardwall cleanrooms can both be modular, and modular cleanrooms add a greater degree of flexibility, especially if you may need to modify or expand the cleanroom at a later date. For those planning a new cleanroom, having a detailed checklist can help ensure that all design aspects are considered before construction.
Cost
Softwall cleanrooms are generally the least expensive option, both in terms of setup and ongoing maintenance. Part of the reason for this is that they are not as efficient as keeping particles out as other types of cleanrooms. As a result, they are usually used with less strict ISO classes, such as ISO 7 or ISO 8. It is also not usually possible to have recirculating air in a softwall space; the air usually makes one pass and then exits the room. Air recirculation can significantly add to cost.
As we’ve implied already, hardwall cleanrooms require a bigger investment, and they may be the better choice if you need to meet very strict requirements.
Modular cleanrooms can vary greatly in cost based on complexity and materials. They are generally more affordable than traditionally built hardwall cleanrooms, and they also provide an excellent return on investment, since they can be expanded, reconfigured, or moved with much greater ease.
Maintenance
Further, hardwall cleanrooms are perhaps the most strong and durable option. They require less frequent maintenance than softwall cleanrooms, which may need more upkeep because of wear and tear to vinyl curtains. Modular cleanroom maintenance, on the other hand, depends largely on their specific materials and design, which as we’ve mentioned can vary a lot.
Applications of Softwall Cleanrooms
Softwall cleanrooms are used in many industries that require controlled environments. Here are a few of the most common applications.
Pharmaceuticals
Softwall cleanrooms are important in processes such as sterile compounding, where drugs are vulnerable to contamination. In general, they may be used in mixing, filling, and packaging.
Electronics
They are also used in the electronics industry to prevent dust and other particle contamination. They may be used in the assembly of electronic devices and other processes that do not involve very sensitive components.
Biotechnology
Finally, in biotechnology research and development, softwall cleanrooms may be used to prevent contamination of samples and experiments.
What is a Softwall Cleanroom? The Bottom Line
Softwall cleanrooms are a great solution for businesses that need a controlled environment that is both flexible and low cost, especially for less strict applications. While they may not match the durability or air flow efficiency of hardwall cleanrooms, their ability to be customized and re-adapted makes them an excellent choice in many cases.
Still unsure of what type of cleanroom you need at your facility? Contact the experts at Allied Cleanrooms today to discuss options and get a free quote.