Custom Clean Room Window Sizes for FFU-Based Renovation Projects

When a majority of engineers renovate an existing cleanroom for an FFU, the airflow pattern and the changes to the ceiling grid and filters is a priority, but the design aspect of the cleanroom window doesn't come to mind until the very end. Wall openings and physical room modifications can be quite an issue in retrofits, so the standard sizes may not be ideal for the new FFU system configuration. This is where a custom clean room window size may come in very handy for a retrofit FFU.

There is a Reason Why FFU Renovations Require a Custom Window Solution

Typical FFU Systems use a modular ceiling grid system where the FFUs have set placements and are not designed to always account for pre-existing wall and window placement. In a cleanroom renovation, any existing installed windows can end up either directly under the FFU supply plenum or directly interfering with an air return line. Simply using a standard size window may mean compromises have to be made to achieve a desired filter coverage, or there may be some 'dead' spots in your room or expensive structural modification to the wall.

Custom sized windows can take the place of standard size windows and help to fix both of these problems. Custom windows for FFU renovation could be specifically designed by placing an order for your window based on the available wall space, and the arrangement of the FFU system in your cleanroom. A window's width could be reduced to account for another row of FFUs along the length of a room, thus enabling greater air changes in the room. Or, a taller, thinner window can be used in between two different FFU units while maintaining the necessary laminar flow in between the two units. This keeps your cleanroom in place, and your critical processes viewable.

Key Design Considerations for Custom Cleanroom Windows in FFU Projects

When considering the design for custom windows in your FFU cleanroom, keep in mind these points:

First, smooth non-particle shedding surfaces are very important. All of your custom window frames should have an anodized aluminum profile with smooth flush corners. You will want your gaskets to be continuous to be able to hold the constant positive pressure differential that the FFUs in the room create without letting any air escape.

Second, temperature and pressure differential differences. In a retrofitted cleanroom, the HVAC load in your room may change. If your custom windows are double-glazed sealed units, your inner window pane should not have any condensation that can potentially cause a contamination or corrosion problem. The glass used in your cleanroom windows should always be safe-tempered or laminated, and perhaps low-iron glass in your inspection zones.

Third, installation during the FFU renovation. The installation method should compliment the overall FFU renovation process. Wash mount windows, which are essentially flush mount, are ideal in a cleanroom as they don't provide any crevices for dust to collect. However, in the event of a phased renovation, there are systems available for compression glazed windows that are designed to replace one window without impacting another.

How Custom Sizes Improve Cleanroom Performance and Workflow

Well-sized cleanroom windows don't just fit in the wall. They actively help the FFU system to become efficient. For example, the larger the observation window, the fewer people will need to enter the clean room which will lessen the particle generation resulting from gown movements. Large custom windows allow equipment displays or process steps to be viewed from the outside.

When making custom windows, they might feature a pass through with a hatch or sloped sills that allow for simple cleaning, but the emphasis is still on size options. With six factories operating under a single integrated management system,non-standard dimensionsarea routine affair. From the widest windows (800 mm x 1200 mm) to the narrowest vertical strip windows (450 mm x 2400 mm) between FFU zones, windows can be manufactured to exact specification, removing any on-site cutting and fitting.

Making Sure That They're Compliant and Reliable

All custom cleanroom windows must strict adhere to international standards.They should have smooth,non-porous surfaces that can withstand chemical cleaning solutions commonly used in pharmaceutical and laboratory environments. All custom units must be equipped with a compression seal system tested to the room pressure differential which is usually up to 250Pa.

If you are planning a major FFU renovation, avoid applying standard solutions to non-standard situations. The sizes of custom cleanroom windows are designed to provide the best fit for FFU placement. Special dimensions are available on dedicated production lines with an experienced staff.