The 4 Main Types of Cleanrooms: Features, Benefits, and Best Uses

The 4 Main Types of Cleanrooms: Features, Benefits, and Best Uses

From pharmaceutical research to electronics manufacturing, cleanrooms make it possible to meet strict quality and safety standards that ordinary spaces simply can’t achieve.

But not every cleanroom is the same. Choosing the right type of cleanroom for your application is essential to balancing compliance requirements, budget, and long-term flexibility.

Today, most facilities rely on one of four main types of cleanrooms: 

Hardwall, Softwall, Rigidwall, and Seamless cleanrooms. 

Each offers unique advantages depending on your industry and classification needs. Let’s dive in. 

The 4 Types of Cleanrooms

1. Hardwall Cleanrooms

hardwall cleanroom

Modular Hardwall cleanrooms are built using modular panels supported by a durable aluminum frame. These panels create solid, permanent walls that form a highly controlled environment.

Key benefits of a modular hardwall cleanroom:

  • Achieve the highest levels of environmental control, meeting ISO Class 5-8 requirements.
  • Dedicated controlled environment,  designed with a standalone HVAC system or utilizing host building environmental conditions. 
  • Support additional controls such as pressurization, static, and humidity management for sensitive applications.
  • Modular design enables reconfiguration, relocation, or expansion without compromising durability.

Best use cases of a hardwall cleanroom:
Hardwall cleanrooms are an excellent choice for industries that demand stringent compliance and absolute control, including:

2. Softwall Cleanrooms

softwall cleanroom

Softwall cleanrooms are constructed with an aluminum or steel frame and flexible vinyl curtain walls. This minimalist design makes them lightweight and adaptable to almost any facility layout.

Key benefits of a softwall cleanroom:

  • Affordable and lightweight, making them one of the most cost-effective cleanroom solutions.
  • Compact footprint allows for installation in tight spaces—or even within another cleanroom.
  • A variety of curtain materials are available, including standard clear vinyl, anti-static, ESD, amber, and black.  
  • Highly flexible and expandable, making it easy to scale up as operations grow.
  • Capable of meeting ISO Classes 5–8 with proper filtration and configuration.

Best use cases for a softwall cleanroom:
Softwall cleanrooms are a practical choice for industries that need a balance of performance and affordability, such as:

3. Rigidwall Cleanrooms

rigidwall cleanrooms

Rigidwall cleanrooms feature durable, transparent panels made from acrylic, static-dissipative PVC, or polycarbonate. These transparent walls provide strength comparable to Hardwall systems, with the added benefit of visibility.

Key benefits of a rigidwall cleanroom:

  • Sleek, attractive design with floor-to-ceiling transparency, allowing for easy monitoring.
  • Durable and easy to maintain, with panels that hold their integrity over time.
  • Suitable for ISO Class 5–8 environments.
  • Customizable in height and often pre-wired for lighting and equipment controls.

Best use cases for a rigidwall cleanroom:
Rigidwall cleanrooms are ideal when durability and aesthetics both matter, including:

4. Seamless Cleanrooms

seamless cleanroom

Seamless cleanrooms, or flush-surface cleanrooms, are constructed with continuous wall and ceiling systems. Their cold-welded seams create a smooth, continuous surface that eliminates gaps where particles could collect.

Key benefits of a seamless cleanroom:

  • Easy to sanitize and maintain, with flush surfaces that reduce contamination risks.
  • Suitable for USP 797/800 compounding, as well as cGMP pharmaceutical manufacturing, where the highest ISO and EU GMP standards apply.
  • Offer excellent control of contamination and environmental conditions.
  • Provide a permanent, long-term solution for high-risk applications.

Best use cases for a seamless cleanroom:
Seamless cleanrooms are the preferred choice for industries where sterility and regulatory compliance are critical, such as:

Choosing the Right Cleanroom for Your Application

Each cleanroom type offers unique advantages, so the right choice depends on your industry, compliance requirements, and budget.

Factors to consider:

  • Industry standards & compliance (ISO classifications, USP guidelines).
  • Budget & scalability needs.
  • Environmental controls (temperature, humidity, pressure, static).
  • Timeline (fast modular installs vs. permanent stick-built).

Cleanroom Type Comparison Table

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide:

cleanroom type comparison table

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleanroom Types

Q. What are the four types of cleanrooms?

A. The four main cleanroom types are Hardwall, Softwall, Rigidwall, and Seamless cleanrooms. Depending on the application, each offers different levels of environmental control, cost, and flexibility.

Q. Which type of cleanroom is best for pharmaceuticals?

A. For sterile drug compounding, modular hardwall cleanrooms have been widely acceptable for USP 797 and 800. However, seamless wall panels are being more widely adopted because their smooth, continuous surfaces support compliance with these standards. 

This preference for seamless wall panel systems mirrors pharmaceutical research and manufacturing, since they can be designed to meet ISO and GMP requirements.

Q. What is the most affordable type of cleanroom?

A. Softwall cleanrooms are the most cost-effective option. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and flexible enough to expand as your operations grow.

Q. Are modular cleanrooms FDA and ISO compliant?

A. Modular cleanrooms, including Hardwall, Softwall, and Rigidwall designs, can be built to meet FDA and cGMP regulatory requirements and to achieve specific ISO classifications for particle control.

  • FDA/cGMP regulations govern the overall design, operation, and maintenance of cleanrooms to ensure product safety and quality.
  • ISO standards define the allowable levels of airborne particles and are one component of regulatory compliance, but not equivalent to it.

Q. Can cleanrooms be expanded in the future?

A. Absolutely. Hardwall, Rigidwall, and Softwall cleanrooms are especially easy to expand or reconfigure. Seamless cleanrooms are more permanent but can be planned with future expansion in mind.

Ready to Build the Right Cleanroom for Your Facility?

Choosing between Hardwall, Softwall, Rigidwall, and Seamless cleanrooms comes down to your industry standards, compliance needs, and long-term goals. Each type offers unique benefits, but no matter which you choose, the right design and installation partner makes all the difference.

At Angstrom Technology, our experts have decades of experience designing and building cleanrooms for various industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotech, aerospace, medical devices, and more. 

We’ll work with you to determine the best fit for your application and ensure your cleanroom meets even the most stringent requirements.

Ready to get started? Contact Angstrom Technology today to talk with our cleanroom experts.

The Value of Cleanrooms for Semiconductor Applications

The Value of Cleanrooms for Semiconductor Applications

What is the Role of Cleanrooms in Semiconductor Applications?

Semiconductors are essential to almost every electronic device we rely on in the modern world: computers, cell phones, vehicles, microwaves, washing machines, and so much more. 

When there are shortages of semiconductors due to a lack of material or slow production, that delay is felt up the supply chain by every consumer buying a new phone, renting a vehicle, or purchasing appliances for their home–you name it.

Fortunately, the CHIPS and Science Act passed in August 2022 will help end those shortages. It has provided over $50 billion in funding for semiconductor manufacturing in the States.

However, funding is only one factor that will help get new cars back on sales lots. Semiconductor chip manufacturers must have expertly designed, highly controlled cleanrooms for safe and efficient production.

What are Semiconductor Cleanrooms?

A cleanroom is an enclosed space where contaminant airborne particles are filtered out, and other environmental conditions are controlled to ensure the cleanest work area possible. In semiconductor manufacturing and assembly, cleanrooms provide the best environment for productive, efficient, and safe work. 

Semiconductor manufacturing is an incredibly intricate process. The materials involved are highly susceptible to damage from environmental factors like:

  • Airborne particles (even the smallest speck of dust can be detrimental)
  • Static
  • Temperature
  • Humidity
  • Air pressure
  • Equipment outgassing

Semiconductor manufacturing is a cleanroom application that requires one of the highest levels of environmental control. In most cases, semiconductor cleanrooms must comply with ISO Class 4-6 requirements. The packaging, assembly, and testing of circuits or chips can be performed in ISO class 7 or ISO class 8 cleanrooms.

The Role of Cleanrooms for Semiconductor Manufacturing 

A cleanroom is the only space a semiconductor can be safely handled before it’s installed in its intended device. If exposed to any threats listed above, semiconductor materials will be ruined, and you’ll suffer the consequences of product failures and production downtime. 

Here’s how cleanrooms play a critical role in semiconductor applications to ensure high-quality manufacturing and production: 

Reliable Control

Cleanrooms are designed to establish strict environmental control and maintain efficiency at all times. With powerful filtration and HVAC systems working to replace contaminated air with clean, treated, and virtually particle-free air, you can trust the environment to remain stable while employees complete their sensitive work.

All materials used in cleanroom construction are specifically sourced to be non-particle shedding and non-outgassing. They’re chosen for durability and performance in any condition. They won’t degrade or corrode due to cleaning, impact, or regular use.

Consistent Product Quality

Silicon wafers are highly vulnerable; even a single dust particle can corrupt an entire chip or device. With cleanrooms, you can rely on steady temperature, relative humidity, and air quality levels, so product quality remains constant or even increases. 

Repeatable Results

A repeatable environment, as offered by cleanrooms, produces a better yield of high-quality products. Scaling production is a matter of replicating the conditions required to produce top-of-the-line semiconductors.

Safer Working Conditions

A cleanroom and its classification standards protect the products being manufactured from failure due to contamination. They also create a safer environment for workers to perform tasks in semiconductor cleanrooms, which can involve handling toxic materials and highly sensitive processes.

Cost Savings

Ultimately, fewer product failures and consistent quality pay off. Your company can benefit from significant savings by reducing the risk of losses and injury. Semiconductor cleanrooms are not cheap to implement and operate, but they can secure profitability in ways you can’t replicate with other control methods. A high-quality cleanroom can streamline semiconductor manufacturing. 

Get Expert Help Designing the Perfect Semiconductor Cleanroom

Contact Angstrom Technology’s cleanroom experts to learn more about semiconductor cleanrooms and how to design one that meets your specific needs. 

With decades of experience, we design, build, and install cleanrooms tailored to a wide variety of industries and classification standards. From concept to completion, our turnkey solutions ensure your cleanroom meets the highest performance standards.

Ready to bring your project to life? Get a free quote today and take the first step toward building a state-of-the-art cleanroom for your semiconductor manufacturing needs.

How Does the CHIPS and Science Act Impact Your Semiconductor or Manufacturing Facility?

How Does the CHIPS and Science Act Impact Your Semiconductor or Manufacturing Facility?

The CHIPS and Science Act represents a groundbreaking moment for the U.S. semiconductor industry. Signed into law in 2022, this legislation allocates billions of dollars to maintain America’s leadership in advanced technologies. For businesses in the semiconductor sector, it’s more than just funding—it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to innovate, expand, and position facilities for long-term success.

Do you know how the CHIPS Act impacts semiconductor manufacturing facilities that utilize cleanrooms? 

Here’s how you can leverage this opportunity to support your operations. Whether you plan to upgrade an existing facility or build a new cleanroom from the ground up, the time to act is now.

What is the CHIPS and Science Act?

The CHIPS and Science Act was introduced in 2022 to address gaps in the U.S. semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. The demand for semiconductors was skyrocketing, and global supply chain vulnerabilities were being exposed. As a solution, the Act provides $52.7 billion in federal funding to bolster domestic semiconductor research, development, and production. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the nation’s technological infrastructure, support innovation, and ensure long-term economic competitiveness.

What does the CHIPS Act provide: 

  • $39 billion for manufacturing incentives: This includes funding for facility construction, cleanroom upgrades, and equipment purchases to expand domestic manufacturing capabilities.
  • Tax credits for capital expenses: A 25% investment tax credit reduces the financial burden of establishing or upgrading semiconductor manufacturing facilities.
  • Guardrails for equitable growth: This will ensure funding is used responsibly, prioritizing projects that create jobs, foster innovation, and exclude facilities in countries of concern.

With its comprehensive funding and strategic initiatives, the CHIPS and Science Act is more than just legislation—it’s a catalyst for transformation, providing semiconductor manufacturers with the tools needed to lead the industry into the future.

How the CHIPS Act Creates Opportunities for Semiconductor Facilities

The CHIPS and Science Act creates long-term opportunities for semiconductor facilities to thrive in a competitive and evolving industry. 

What financial incentives does the CHIPS Act provide?

  • Tax Credits for Capital Expenses: Facilities can claim a 25% investment tax credit for expenses related to cleanroom construction, advanced equipment, and facility upgrades.
  • Grants and Subsidies: The Act provides $39 billion in manufacturing incentives, including direct grants and subsidies, making it easier for companies to expand their production capabilities and build state-of-the-art facilities.

Does the CHIPS Act promote workforce development? 

  • Investments in STEM Education: Funding is directed toward educational programs at all levels, from K-12 initiatives to advanced degree programs, ensuring a pipeline of talent for semiconductor manufacturing and research roles.
  • Creation of Skilled Jobs: The Act supports the creation of tens of thousands of well-paying jobs in construction and ongoing facility operations.

How is the CHIPS Act a catalyst for regional economic development?

  • Innovation Hubs Across the U.S.: The Act spurs the development of high-tech innovation hubs that create economic opportunities in underserved regions. It encourages partnerships between local governments, educational institutions, and private businesses.
  • Boosting Local Economies: Facility upgrades and new construction projects generate significant local economic activity and benefit small businesses by creating job opportunities beyond the semiconductor industry.

How to Leverage the CHIPS Act Funding to Future-Proof Your Cleanroom Facility

The CHIPS and Science Act allows semiconductor manufacturers to enhance their cleanroom facilities and stay ahead in the industry.

1. Identify Areas for Improvement in Cleanroom Capabilities 

Take stock of your facility and identify areas that would benefit from improvement and funding:

  • Evaluate whether your existing cleanrooms meet current production demands and ISO standards.
  • Identify potential upgrades, such as improving airflow, contamination control, or humidity regulation.
  • Pinpoint areas where automation or advanced materials could enhance efficiency and output.

2. Apply for Funding and Tax Incentives to Upgrade or Expand Facilities

The CHIPS Act provides substantial financial support for cleanroom enhancements to reduce the upfront costs of facility improvements:

  • Apply for grants or subsidies aimed at modernizing semiconductor manufacturing facilities.
  • Leverage the 25% investment tax credit to offset costs associated with new cleanroom construction, equipment purchases, or major renovations.

3. Collaborate with Experienced Partners Like Angstrom for Cleanroom Design and Installation

Building or upgrading a cleanroom requires specialized expertise. Collaborate with experts to minimize risks and ensure your cleanroom meets or exceeds standards:

  • Work with a trusted partner like Angstrom to design and install cleanrooms that meet the rigorous demands of semiconductor manufacturing.
  • Ensure compliance with ISO standards and industry-specific requirements.
  • Benefit from customized solutions tailored to your facility’s unique needs.

4. Invest in Advanced Technologies to Maintain Competitiveness

The semiconductor industry evolves rapidly, making technological innovation a necessity. Staying ahead of technological trends ensures your facility remains competitive in the global market:

  • Upgrade your cleanroom with cutting-edge technologies, such as automated monitoring systems, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and modular cleanroom designs.
  • Incorporate advanced materials and processes that improve yield rates and reduce contamination risks.

5. Align Facility Upgrades with Long-Term Production Goals

When planning improvements, think beyond immediate needs. Take a strategic approach to facility upgrades to make sure your cleanroom remains a valuable asset for years to come:

  • Consider how your facility upgrades can support the production of next-generation semiconductors.
  • Ensure scalability so your cleanroom can accommodate increased production capacity as demand grows.
  • Align investments with your organization’s long-term vision for innovation and market leadership.

Angstrom Is Here to Help You Leverage the CHIPS Act for Cleanroom Success

The CHIPS and Science Act is a transformative opportunity to strengthen your cleanroom facility. You can enhance your production capabilities and secure your place as a leader in the global market. 

With billions of dollars allocated to revitalizing domestic manufacturing, now is the time to act. Upgrade your cleanroom facilities to meet the demands of advanced semiconductor production. Leverage CHIPS Act funding, tax incentives, and grants to future-proof your operations and contribute to the resurgence of American manufacturing.

Ready to take the next step? 

Contact Angstrom today to learn how our expert team can help you design and build state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities. Let’s turn opportunity into reality—together.

 

5 Signs You Need a Cleanroom Service or Repair

5 Signs You Need a Cleanroom Service or Repair

Cleanrooms are designed to prevent contamination and protect sensitive products. But even with the best practices and equipment in place, cleanrooms are not immune to wear and tear. 

Routine maintenance addresses minor issues before they escalate, but problems can still arise unexpectedly. These issues can compromise the cleanroom’s integrity and hinder productivity without intervention.

5 Signs You Need Cleanroom Cleaning, Services, or Repair

Here are five key signs that indicate it may be time to schedule a cleanroom service or repair to keep your operations running smoothly.

1. Unusual Odors or Chemical Smells

Unpleasant odors or chemical smells in a cleanroom can indicate that the filtration system is not neutralizing or removing harmful substances. When these systems fail, it can result in the buildup of airborne contaminants or chemical byproducts that affect air quality. If left unaddressed, this can contaminate sensitive products and compromise safety and compliance.

It is crucial to address unusual odors promptly to prevent contamination from spreading and to avoid further damage to the cleanroom’s systems. 

2. Visible Contamination or Dust Accumulation

Dust, particles, and other foreign substances can be detrimental to cleanroom operations. If you notice contamination or dust accumulation, it can be a clear sign that the air filtration system is malfunctioning. Contamination can lead to defective products, delays, or even product recalls, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology

Monitor and clean cleanroom surfaces regularly to prevent the buildup of contaminants. If visible contamination becomes an issue, it may indicate a problem with the filtration system, and immediate attention is required.

3. Damaged or Malfunctioning Equipment

HVAC units, particle counters, and filtration systems regulate airflow, monitor particulate levels, and ensure air quality, which is crucial for meeting cleanliness standards and preventing contamination. 

For example, a malfunctioning HVAC unit can lead to improper temperature or humidity, or a faulty particle counter might fail to detect airborne contaminants. Even minor issues with these systems can impact the cleanroom’s performance and lead to a non-compliant environment.

It’s essential to inspect and maintain cleanroom equipment regularly to prevent malfunctions. If you notice any irregularities, address the issue immediately to avoid compromising the environment.

4. Inconsistent Airflow or Temperature Control

Inconsistent airflow or temperature control can lead to contaminant buildup or unregulated humidity. These variations can negatively impact sensitive processes such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, semiconductor production, or medical device assembly, where even slight fluctuations can lead to defects or product failure. 

If you notice that your cleanroom’s temperature or airflow is inconsistent, you must address the issue promptly to avoid any detrimental effects on production and to ensure compliance.

5. Increased Downtime or Decreased Productivity

When cleanroom equipment malfunctions or the controlled environment is compromised in any way, production delays, reduced output, and potentially a halt in operations can occur. If a cleanroom consistently experiences breakdowns, inefficiencies, or compliance issues, it may indicate an underlying system problem that requires professional assessment.

Addressing these issues early on with professional evaluation and service can help avoid long-term downtime and improve overall productivity. 

Stay Up to Standards With Angstrom’s Cleanroom Repair Services

Angstrom offers comprehensive cleanroom services to keep your cleanroom in optimal condition. By being proactive, you can avoid unplanned downtime, maintain compliance, and extend the lifespan of your cleanroom systems.

At Angstrom, we’re proud to offer an array of cleanroom services, including: 

Comprehensive Repair Solutions

Whether it’s equipment repairs, environmental control adjustments, or system checks, our team ensures your cleanroom’s components are functioning as they should. We’ll restore the controlled environment to its original state, ensuring everything meets the necessary standards.

Preventative Maintenance

Avoid breakdowns and costly repairs with Angstrom’s ongoing maintenance services. Regular inspections and preventative measures identify potential issues before they become major problems, minimizing downtime and extending the life of your equipment. 

Emergency Support

We’re ready to provide fast, reliable support for urgent repairs. Our team is equipped to handle emergencies so you can return to normal operations as soon as possible.

Get Your Cleanroom Back on Track with Angstrom’s Expert Services

If you’ve noticed any signs mentioned in this blog or want to ensure your cleanroom is running at its best, don’t hesitate to contact Angstrom. Our team of experts is ready to assist with everything from routine maintenance to emergency repairs so you stay compliant and productive. 

Contact us today to schedule a service or repair and keep your cleanroom performing at its highest level.

What Exactly Does cGMP Stand For?

What Exactly Does cGMP Stand For?

In life sciences, the term “cGMP” signifies more than just compliance – it’s the ongoing commitment to excellence and safety in biotechnology, medical device production, genetic research, and more. 

cGMP stands for “current Good Manufacturing Practices,” where the “current” emphasizes an ongoing obligation to incorporate the latest standards and technological advancements into operations.

Cleanrooms are essential tools for the life sciences industry, and adhering to cGMP standards is critical. 

Why cGMP Matters in Life Sciences

Following cGMP standards in life sciences is a fundamental requirement to ensure that all products are produced and controlled according to quality standards and to protect consumers. cGMP regulations are crucial for: 

  • Ensuring Medication Safety and Efficacy: From the correct dosages to contamination prevention, cGMP guidelines help avoid life-threatening errors in medication production.
  • Advancing Biotechnological Innovations: The guidelines assure that products like gene therapies and biological agents meet stringent safety tests before reaching patients.
  • Safeguarding Medical Devices: cGMP standards govern the tools used in life-saving operations and the manufacturing processes that ensure these tools are defect-free and reliable.

The Core Principles of cGMP Standards

Understanding the principles of cGMP is essential for anyone involved in creating or managing life sciences products. The regulations and standards constantly evolve to ensure high standards and maintain consumer safety, and even as the laws change, they always adhere to a core set of principles:

  • Expertly Trained Personnel | All employees must be trained and qualified to perform their duties effectively. Ongoing training must also be implemented to update staff on the latest cGMP standards and procedures. 
  • Stringent Quality Control | cGMP regulations require that facilities are designed to prevent cross-contamination and errors. This involves sophisticated systems for air quality, material flow, and personnel movement that minimize the risk of any breaches in sanitation or procedure.
  • Thorough Documentation and Record-Keeping | Accurate and detailed documentation is required for cGMP compliance. Records of every stage of the manufacturing process must be meticulously maintained to ensure traceability, accountability, and transparency. This includes sourcing raw materials to final product release.

The Evolving Nature of cGMP Compliance

cGMP represents the currently accepted minimum standards, but the cGMP landscape is dynamic and influenced by technological advancements and regulatory updates. Engaging with cGMP means staying ahead of industry standards and being prepared to implement changes swiftly to maintain compliance and product integrity. 

Therefore, companies should always go beyond these guidelines to assure high-quality products and consumers peace of mind. 

Aligning with Global Standards

It’s important to note that cGMP standards are not isolated within any country’s borders. They reflect a global consensus on best practices. 

For instance, the U.S. FDA and European EMA share many commonalities in their cGMP standards, ensuring that products can move across borders without compromising safety.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance with cGMP Standards

Failing to comply with cGMP can have serious consequences for companies, ranging from financial losses to severe reputational damage. Some of the most detrimental consequences of failing to adhere to cGMP standards include:

  • Product Recalls | Product recalls are one of the most immediate consequences of cGMP non-compliance. If a product is found to be defective or dangerous, regulatory agencies like the FDA may require it to be recalled from the market, resulting in financial losses and disrupted supply chains. 
  • Legal Penalties |  Companies that fail to meet cGMP standards can face legal penalties, including hefty fines and sanctions. In severe cases, legal action could lead to criminal charges. 
  • Loss of Consumer Trust | Non-compliance can affect consumer confidence in a company and its products. Substandard manufacturing practices may lead to declining sales, difficulty attracting new customers, and long-term damage to the brand.
  • Suspension or Revocation of Licenses | A company’s operating license can be suspended or revoked if it fails to comply with cGMP. This could result in a temporary or permanent shutdown of the manufacturing operations. 
  • Harm to Consumers | The most severe consequence of cGMP non-compliance is the potential harm to consumers. Defective or unsafe products can cause illness, injury, or even death. 

Trust Angstrom for Industry-Leading Cleanroom Solutions

At Angstrom, we understand the complexities and stringent requirements imposed by cGMP regulations. Our expertise in designing and implementing custom cleanrooms meets and exceeds these rigorous standards, ensuring that your life sciences manufacturing processes are compliant and set up for success.

Contact us today to learn how our tailored cleanroom solutions can support your cGMP compliance and enhance your manufacturing efficacy.

CONTACT A LIFE SCIENCE CLEANROOM EXPERT