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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Maintaining a controlled environment is critical when manufacturing medical devices. Cleanrooms play a pivotal role in creating this environment, protecting delicate components from harmful contaminants and environmental factors that could compromise the quality of the devices being produced.
At Angstrom, we understand the unique challenges of manufacturing medical devices and specialize in designing cleanroom solutions that address those challenges head-on.
One key factor in achieving excellence in this field is humidity control. By maintaining precise humidity levels, cleanrooms preserve the integrity of medical devices and ensure that manufacturers meet the industry’s stringent quality and regulatory requirements.
Let’s explore the importance of humidity control in medical device manufacturing and how cleanroom solutions can help ensure manufacturing excellence.
The Crucial Role of Humidity Control in Cleanrooms for Medical Device Manufacturing
Humidity control is essential in maintaining the quality and safety of medical devices. Proper humidity levels help ensure materials and parts function as expected, preventing damage or degradation.
Why Humidity Control Matters:
In the medical device industry, even minor deviations in humidity can lead to significant consequences. Maintaining optimal humidity levels ensures that devices are reliable, durable, and safe, helping manufacturers avoid costly recalls while ensuring patient safety.
Key Risks of Improper Humidity Control:
Corrosion: Excess moisture can corrode metallic parts, compromising the device’s structure.
Microbial Growth: High humidity fosters microbial growth, leading to contamination risks.
Compromised Adhesive Properties: Improper humidity can weaken adhesives, resulting in defective devices.
Benefits of Precise Humidity Control:
Optimal Conditions for Materials: Precise control minimizes defects, ensuring materials remain stable and functional throughout production.
Reduced Risk of Defects: Consistent humidity prevents reactions that could compromise device integrity, reducing the likelihood of defects.
Improved Regulatory Compliance: Devices produced in humidity-controlled environments are more likely to pass stringent testing, minimizing the risk of recalls or failures.
3 Major Reasons Why Cleanrooms Are Essential for Medical Device Manufacturing
While humidity control is crucial, there are other significant reasons why cleanrooms are indispensable in medical device manufacturing. Cleanrooms provide an environment where contamination is minimized, ensuring the highest level of product quality and safety.
1. Contamination Control
Medical devices are susceptible to contaminants such as dust, microbes, and particulates. Cleanrooms maintain a controlled environment, preventing these elements from compromising device safety and functionality. Using advanced filtration and airflow systems in cleanrooms minimizes the risk of contamination during production, safeguarding device integrity.
2. Protection from Environmental Factors
External environmental factors like temperature, airflow, and particulate matter can significantly affect medical device manufacturing. Cleanrooms create a stable environment where sensitive components are protected from fluctuations that could cause material degradation, affecting the longevity and reliability of the device.
3. Regulatory Compliance
Medical device manufacturers must meet stringent regulatory standards, such as those set by the FDA and ISO. Cleanrooms help manufacturers comply with these regulations by controlling critical environmental factors like particle count, air quality, and cleanliness. Maintaining these standards is essential to avoid production delays, costly recalls, and compliance issues.
How Angstrom’s Medical Device Cleanroom Solutions Optimize Manufacturing
Here at Angstrom, we’re proud to be a leader in providing cleanroom solutions that meet the rigorous demands of medical device manufacturing. Our cleanrooms are designed to create optimal production environments that ensure compliance with industry standards while protecting product quality.
Custom Medical Device Cleanrooms for Manufacturers:
HardWall Cleanrooms: Offering maximum control over static, pressure, contamination, and humidity, hardwall cleanrooms are ideal for environments requiring strict compliance with ISO 14644 standards, such as medical equipment.
Modular Designs: We offer modular cleanrooms that can integrate with your existing structure or be entirely free-standing, depending on your facility’s needs.
Key Benefits of Angstrom’s Cleanrooms:
Contamination Prevention: Designed to meet ISO standards, our cleanrooms help protect against particulate contamination, safeguarding the integrity of your products.
Regulatory Compliance: Our cleanrooms meet stringent FDA and ISO standards, ensuring that your facility remains compliant and minimizes the risk of recalls or regulatory issues.
Real-time Environmental Monitoring: Angstrom’s cleanrooms have advanced monitoring systems to track vital environmental factors like humidity and particulate levels, helping maintain a consistent, controlled environment.
Regulatory Assurance: Our monitoring systems ensure that all environmental conditions meet regulatory requirements, allowing you to focus on production while maintaining compliance.
Business Success: With optimized cleanroom environments, we help businesses increase efficiency, reduce production downtime, and improve overall output quality, ultimately contributing to long-term success and growth.
Do You Want to Optimize Medical Device Manufacturing with Angstrom?
Maintaining precise environmental control, especially humidity, is essential for ensuring medical devices’ integrity, safety, and compliance during production. Angstrom Technology’s cleanroom solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of medical device manufacturers, providing a controlled environment that guarantees high-quality production and meets industry standards.
If you want to optimize your medical device manufacturing process, Angstrom is here to help. Contact us today to request a quote and learn how our cleanroom solutions can enhance your manufacturing outcomes and drive your business success.
If your company already has a cleanroom or is in the process of getting one, you likely understand the crucial role it plays in your operations. However, have you considered the type of cleanroom that best suits your needs?
There are two main types of cleanrooms: a traditionally constructed space and a modular cleanroom.
Modular cleanrooms have numerous benefits compared to traditional construction – let’s dive in further.
The 5 Main Benefits of Modular Cleanroom Systems
If your company is seeking a cleanroom with top-tier flexibility, efficiency, and effectiveness, modular cleanrooms are probably the best option. We’re here to tell you all about them.
1. Modular Cleanrooms Are Free-Standing
Free-standing, modular cleanrooms can be built without extensive construction or renovation (not to mention the costs and disruption those processes entail). Whether the best location is in the middle of a large open production floor or tucked back in a corner, these controlled environments can go anywhere. You don’t need to build walls or change existing ones, and electricity and plumbing are already engineered into the cleanroom as part of the modular design.
2. Modular Cleanrooms Can Be Built Within a Shorter Timeframe
Building cleanrooms from a pre-designed kit with all the building materials included and the design already complete is faster and much more efficient than starting from scratch. With modular cleanrooms, the design is finalized, the materials are pre-selected, and the construction process is simplified. This streamlined approach allows for quicker installation, reducing downtime and helping you get up and running faster.
3. Modular Cleanrooms Are Easier To Modify or Expand
Should your company’s cleanroom needs ever change, modifying a modular cleanroom is much easier than renovating or remodeling a traditionally constructed space. Modular cleanroom walls can be easily moved to accommodate a new cleanroom layout and expanded by adding additional wall pieces. You don’t need to start fresh with all new materials every time your cleanroom needs change – saving you money and avoiding downtime.
4. Modular Cleanrooms Can Be Built From a Range of Materials
Another key advantage of modular cleanrooms is the flexibility to choose from a wide range of materials that best meet your operational requirements. Whether you need high-grade stainless steel, aluminum, or another type of specialized panel, you can select materials that offer the durability, chemical resistance, or contamination control required for your specific environment. This customization ensures your cleanroom will withstand your industry’s demands, whether you’re in pharmaceuticals, biotech, or manufacturing.
5. Modular Cleanrooms Require Minimal Maintenance
Modular cleanrooms are designed for convenience and efficiency, requiring far less maintenance than traditionally constructed spaces. Their modular design allows individual panels to be easily disassembled and reassembled, making repairs or replacements simple without needing extensive reconstruction. Traditional cleanrooms may require more invasive and costly maintenance – modular cleanrooms offer a straightforward solution that minimizes downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.
Ready to Transform Your Cleanroom Space?
Here at Angstrom, we’re proud to be a leader in the modular cleanroom industry. We offer top-of-the-line, tailored solutions for projects of any size and classification. Whether you need a compact cleanroom or a large-scale controlled environment, we can design and build a modular system that meets your precise specifications.
Contact Angstrom today for expert guidance on your modular cleanroom needs and take the next step toward creating a flexible, efficient, and reliable cleanroom for your business.
