Angstrom Technology understands the importance of effective cleanroom installations that alleviate potential issues and reduce timescales for our global clients.

With our extensive experience and expertise, we can proudly say that we install cleanrooms across the globe. As cleanroom experts, we have high expectations for build quality and can deliver a consistent standard across multiple sites worldwide. We aim to provide our customers with reliable and efficient installations that meet their needs.

At Angstrom Technology, we take cleanliness seriously during the build process. We operate in a manner that minimizes dust and waste, ensuring minimal disruption for our clients. We understand that a clean environment is crucial for various industries, and we prioritize maintaining the highest cleanliness standards throughout the installation process.

Our experienced site superintendents and installation technicians deliver clean and precise installations for our cleanroom projects worldwide. We approach each project focusing on our customers’ needs, tailoring our installation methods accordingly.

To provide cost-competitive and qualified installation services worldwide, we have established strategic partnerships with local labor forces across the globe. This approach allows us to leverage local expertise while ensuring that our knowledgeable site superintendents and staff provide supervision and maintain our high standards.

Our robust approach to project management and installation caters to our customer’s needs:

• Project Management: We provide comprehensive project management services, taking responsibility for installation, trade work coordination, and subcontractor management. With our expertise, we ensure a seamless and efficient installation process.
• Full Turnkey Solution: Our experienced site team handles all aspects of the build, ensuring minimal disruption to your team. We take care of every detail and hand over the keys when the installation is complete.

At Angstrom Technology, we have the capability to deliver exceptional cleanroom installations globally. With our installation flexibility, focus on cleanliness, and dedication to customer satisfaction. We are your trusted partner for cleanroom projects around the world.

SPEAK WITH THE EXPERTS AT ANGSTROM TECHNOLOGY

If your facility needs a new cleanroom, Angstrom Technology can design, build, and install one that meets your specifications. Using proven design strategies and quality build systems, you can trust that your work and employees will always be protected.

Request a cleanroom quote today, or contact our team for more information.

Today, we’re delving into the world of project management. Specifically, good project management! Its impact on the outcome of cleanroom projects cannot be overstated. So, let’s explore why good project management is so important!

Smooth Sailing for Project Delivery

Imagine a cleanroom installation where everything runs like a well-oiled machine. Deadlines are met, communication is seamless, and everyone’s happy. That’s the power of good project management! Angstrom Technology appoint a dedicated project manager for each cleanroom build. It’s their job to make sure that the delivery of your project is as smooth as possible. From start to finish, your project manager will be your go-to person, ensuring that the entire build comes together perfectly.

Your Personal Project Concierge

Ever had a question or a concern about a project but didn’t know who to turn to? Not with Angstrom Technology! Your project manager is like your personal concierge. They will be there to answer any queries you may have. Whether it’s about timelines, resources, or any other aspect of the project, just reach out, and your project manager will provide you with the support and information you need.

Prompt and Professional Communication

Communication is key, and we take it seriously. Angstrom Technology understand how important it is to always keep you in the loop. That’s why we will be responsive and maintain a professional manner in all our interactions. With every update, your project manager will ensure that you’re well-informed about the progress and any potential challenges that may arise. You can trust that we pay attention to every detail and keep you confident in our project’s success.

Overcoming Challenges with a Positive Attitude

In every cleanroom build project, obstacles are bound to come up. But here’s the thing, we see them as opportunities, not stumbling blocks. Challenges are meant to be conquered, and we’re here to tackle them head-on. By identifying and addressing potential issues in real time, your project manager will navigate through the hurdles to keep our project on track. So, no need to worry when unexpected roadblocks arise—we’ve got the solutions!

Information Platform for Transparency

Transparency is crucial in project management, and we’ve got you covered. Your project manager will provide you with an information platform that keeps you in the loop every step of the way. Monthly programs, two-week lookaheads, and weekly progress reports are just some of the tools I’ll use to ensure clear visibility of the project’s status. You’ll always know where we stand, and together, we’ll make informed decisions to achieve our goals.

Beyond Project Completion

Our commitment to you doesn’t end when the cleanroom project is delivered. We’re here for the long haul, ready to address any concerns, queries, or additional requirements you may have even after the handover. You can count on us to remain accessible and responsive, whether it’s through email or phone. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to support you even beyond the project’s completion.

So, that’s the power of good project management! From providing a seamless service to being your personal support system, a professional project manager from Angstrom Technology will ensure your project’s success. With open communication, a positive mindset, and a commitment to your satisfaction, we’re ready to turn any cleanroom project into a triumph. Let’s embark on this journey together, and together, we’ll achieve greatness!

Remember, we’re just a call or an email away, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Here’s to a successful cleanroom build!

SPEAK WITH THE EXPERTS AT ANGSTROM TECHNOLOGY

If your facility needs a new cleanroom, Angstrom Technology can design, build, and install one that meets your specifications. Using proven design strategies and quality build systems, you can trust that your work and employees will always be protected.

Request a cleanroom quote today, or contact our team for more information.

At Angstrom Technology, modular cleanrooms are our bread and butter. We love their pre-engineered, high-quality components and their speedy installation processes — and our customers do too! 

If you’re considering a modular approach to your next cleanroom project, you might have a few questions about the installation process. We have answers!

What Is a Modular Cleanroom?

First, let’s recap exactly what a modular cleanroom is. 

A modular cleanroom consists of non-progressive, prefabricated components that are manufactured offsite and then assembled onsite. Modular cleanrooms can be installed within an existing facility as a freestanding structure or supported by the existing building’s structure if need be. 

What Are the Benefits of Modular Cleanrooms?

Modular cleanrooms offer the same benefits as traditionally constructed cleanrooms, and then some. They are: 

• Versatile. Non-progressive in nature, modular cleanrooms can be easily reconfigured, expanded, or relocated to meet the changing needs of your facility. 
• Convenient. Modular cleanrooms result in less construction mess and minimal interruption to your facility’s surrounding operations. 
• Environmentally friendly. Modular cleanrooms are not only made from recycled materials but they produce less construction waste and are also built for durable and versatile long-term use. 
• Affordable. Due to the nature of the prefabricated components, there is reduced labor costs which make modular cleanrooms more affordable than traditional ones. Cost varies based on the size and scope of your project, however. 
• Ready to install. Most pertinent to this article, prefabricated modular cleanroom components allow for quick and simple installation processes. 

The 7 Steps to Modular Cleanroom Installation

Arguably the biggest benefit of installing a modular is just that: the installation. The modular cleanroom installation process is fast and uniformed. Since components are pre-engineered and manufactured in a controlled environment offsite, they’re ready to install as soon as they’re delivered. In some cases, this can take just a few days!

Here’s an overview of what each step of the modular cleanroom installation process looks like, from design drafts to finishing touches:

1. Create Designs

A great cleanroom starts with a great design. To start the project off, a lot of time is spent in the design phase, ensuring that all aspects are feasible and highly detailed. This sets the scene for a successful, error-free manufacturing process. 

2. Manufacture Components Offsite

Next up is engineering and manufacturing. In a controlled facility offsite, various cleanroom components are manufactured according to the design specifications listed. Detailed, high-quality work here helps ensure that no problems arise during the installation process. 

3. Deliver Components to the Construction Site

Once manufacturing is completed, each component of the modular cleanroom is delivered to be assembled onsite. 

4. Build!

This is where the true modular cleanroom “installation” process begins. Expert installers work to assemble each component of the modular cleanroom until the final structure is complete. This stage can vary from a few days to several weeks, but will depend on the size of your project.

5. Connect Utilities & Services

In order to get the cleanroom running optimally, all ancillary services need to be connected and properly installed. This includes HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and more. Close and frequent coordination throughout the modular cleanroom installation process helps to ensure all systems are up and running smoothly.

6. Implement Additional Equipment

Once the modular cleanroom structure is standing, any additional equipment is incorporated. Many cleanroom industries and applications require specialized machines or technologies to complete everyday tasks. Aside from the usual air filtration systems, this could include anything from workstations to pass-through chambers to conveyor belts. 

7. Complete Qualification & Validation Process (If Necessary)

Most cleanroom projects require some sort of certification, qualification, or validation. The type needed depends on what standards and classifications are required for the industry but could be one or more from this list: GMP, cGMP, ISO, ASTM, or USP. These approval processes are there to confirm the cleanroom is safe, effective, and efficient for the application it’s expected to host. 

Have more questions regarding modular cleanrooms? Check out our previous post, Modular Cleanroom FAQs. 

Want to Install a Modular Cleanroom? Trust Our Experts

If you’re looking to install a cleanroom as quickly and efficiently as possible, modular is the way to go — and Angstrom Technology is the place to go! From full-size turnkey cleanroom projects to customized expansions, our experts have the experience needed to design, build, and install a modular cleanroom that works for you. To get started, give us a call at (616) 866-2400 or request a quote online.

Looking for more information about the cleanroom installation process? You’re in the right place. Below, we’ve answered ten of our most frequently asked questions regarding cleanroom installation, so you can gain a better understanding of what the process involves. 

How Much Space Will My Cleanroom Need?

It depends. To determine the right size for your cleanroom, you’ll want to consider how much space you’ll need to adequately house your operations. Consider the appropriate amount of space for factors like equipment, workers, and walkways in which workers can move around. 

You’ll also want to keep vertical space in mind. In order to accommodate fan filter units which sit approximately 12-15” inches above the ceiling grid, and to make sure they can function correctly, you should allot for 24”-36” inches overhead clearance. This will ensure that there’s enough space for the filters to obtain air, and for your workers to carry out regular maintenance tasks. 

One other major factor to consider? Only use the space you absolutely need. If you install a cleanroom that’s bigger than what your application requires, you’ll just waste time and money. 

Are Modular Cleanrooms Easier to Install? 

Yes. Modular cleanrooms are built with prefabricated and pre-wired components that are precise and ready to install upon delivery. This generally makes the installation process much easier and quicker than that of traditionally built cleanrooms. 

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Cleanroom?

Cleanroom installation costs vary from project to project. In most situations, the cost depends on the following factors: 

• Size
• Type (SoftWall, HardWall, RigidWall)
• Classification
• Design complexity
• Additional features

However, there’s one way that you can drastically cut down your cleanroom installation costs, regardless of any of the factors listed above: build modular. Building with prefabricated, pre-wired components results in a much faster installation, reducing labor costs. 

Can I Install a Cleanroom in an Existing Space and/or Around Existing Equipment?

Yes and yes! It can be difficult to decide where to install your cleanroom, but the bright side of that is that you do have choices. Modular cleanrooms can be installed in most existing buildings as free-standing structures, or they can be tied into the existing building (this all depends on the footprint, obstructions within the facility, and structural integrity of the existing building). Modular cleanrooms are so versatile that they can even be installed around an existing piece of equipment within your facility if need be. 

Interested in seeing this in action? Check out our case study about the pharmaceutical packaging cleanroom we built around a large piece of existing equipment for Praxis, a West Michigan-based contract packaging company. 

Can I Use My Own HVAC System?

Yes, your cleanroom can be connected to your facility’s existing HVAC system — as long as it can handle the new load your cleanroom requires and guarantee it will meet the required temperature and humidity specifications without an issue. While integrating with your existing HVAC system is generally the most economical way to go, the majority of cleanrooms, no matter the ISO classification, will need more capacity and additional features than your existing system can handle. Therefore, it is best to have an independent, dedicated cleanroom HVAC system installed. 

Do I Have to Install My Cleanroom on My Own, Or Can Somebody Do It for Me?

You don’t need to install your own cleanroom. At Angstrom Technology, we employ a team of experienced cleanroom construction specialists that can come out, install your cleanroom for you, and ensure all the details are right. That way, you’ll suffer minimal disruption to your work day and operations while we get the job done for you. 

How Long Does the Cleanroom Installation Process Take?

Although the modular cleanroom installation process can vary based on the size and complexity of your design, it’s usually very quick. Prefabricated modular components are made for a high level of efficiency, reducing between 25-75% of labor time when compared to traditional cleanrooms. 

Once you’ve completed your cleanroom design and once all the prefabricated components have been delivered, the installation process usually only takes a few weeks, and some smaller cleanrooms can be installed in just days! 

When Can I Start Using My Cleanroom After It’s Installed?

Once installation is complete, there are a few things you need to do before you can start operating within it. First of all, you should ensure that all of your equipment, machines, and materials are in it, in the right spaces and are operating as intended. Then, you need to get your cleanroom air balanced, cleaned, certified, and validated so that you can ensure it’s meeting the conditions required by your ISO classification. After those steps, you should be ready to start operations!

How Can I Keep My Cleanroom in Good Condition Once It’s Installed? 

The best way to keep your cleanroom in good condition post-installation is to keep up with regular cleanings and maintenance tasks. Not only do most cleanrooms require daily cleanings, but they also require frequent filter inspections and replacements. You can find a more detailed list of maintenance tasks here. 

Can I Expand My Cleanroom in the Future?

Yes. Modular cleanrooms are extremely versatile, so they can easily be downsized, expanded, and reconfigured whenever you need. No matter what the changing needs of your facility may be, a modular cleanroom can keep up with them and offer a long-lasting investment. 

Have more questions about installing a cleanroom in your space? Give the experts at Angstrom Technology a call! We’d be happy to walk through your specific requirements and help design and build the best cleanroom for you.

​Semiconductors are extremely sensitive materials. So without a controlled cleanroom to manufacture the chips in, you risk contamination that could lead to various production issues and product failures. 

If your facility manufactures semiconductor chips for computerized devices of any type, size, or application, you’ll need a semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom. Let’s take a look at what components and considerations go into designing one. 

Where to Start: Understanding the Requirements of a Semiconductor Cleanroom

Even the slightest bit of contamination or settling of particulate produce can ruin semiconductor production and performance, sometimes leading to disastrous consequences. Therefore, it’s important to understand the strict cleanliness standards that semiconductor cleanrooms must abide by. 

Semiconductor Cleanroom Classifications

Even the slightest bit of contamination or settling of airborne particles can compromise semiconductor manufacturing efforts — leading to costly product defects. So before you get started designing your semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom, you should gain a thorough understanding of the threats they’re faced with and the cleanliness standards they must abide by. 

Semiconductor Manufacturing Threats

When working in a semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom, operators face a number of challenges regarding detailed processes and contamination control. In fact, human workers themselves are often the main source of contamination during the semiconductor manufacturing process. Aside from particulate matter from their bodies and clothing, they can create unwanted electro-static discharge (ESD) that can ruin electronic circuits in the material. 

Other than that, there are a number of additional environmental threats that can disrupt the semiconductor manufacturing process: 

• Static
• Humidity
• Airborne particles
• Power glitches
• Pressure malfunctions
• Equipment outgassing
• Dropped equipment, tools, and parts

Yes — that’s a lot to keep in mind! But semiconductors are so fragile that even the tiniest speck of dust can destroy them.

Fortunately, a reliable, controlled cleanroom can do most of the work for you. When designed, built, and installed properly, your semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom can maintain the level of environmental control you need to optimize productivity and profitability. 

When You’re Ready: 4 Steps to Designing a Semiconductor Manufacturing Cleanroom

Now that you’re aware of the threats your semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom faces and the standards it needs to meet to prevent them, it’s time to start on design. Below we’ve outlined four considerations you’ll want to keep in mind during the design process. 

1. Start with Cleanroom Airflow & Air Filtration 

Airflow and air filtration are two of the most important aspects of great semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom design. They both determine how many airborne particles travel into your cleanroom and how they’re prevented from building up on equipment and materials. Let’s break them down one by one. 

Cleanroom Airflow

ISO 14644-4 describes recommended cleanroom airflow patterns at various classification levels. The most popular (and widely recommended) airflow pattern is unidirectional, or laminar. It involves air blown at a constant speed in a straight and unimpeded path. The air is pushed through a filter (usually in the cleanroom ceiling) and then directed down toward the floor. To reduce turbulence, some semiconductor cleanrooms have raised flooring that use perforated tiles that allow air to flow through holes where it can be retreated and filtered before entering the cleanroom again. 

Cleanroom Air Filtration

Cleanroom air filtration is all about how many airborne particles, and of which sizes, are permitted within a cleanroom. Regulations for this are documented in the ISO 14644-1 classification system. 

Airborne particles are controlled with specialized air filtration systems, such as HEPA and ULPA filters. You can learn more about these systems and how they work on our air filtration page. 

2. Consider Cleanroom Furniture and Machinery Placement

Semiconductor manufacturing requires various types of furniture, machinery, and equipment. It’s a good idea to map out where these items will be placed in order to produce the most efficient airflow patterns. 

One of the best recommendations for semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom design is to place large furniture, machinery, and equipment along the outer walls. This helps decrease the chance of those big objects obstructing the main airflow. 

Many cleanrooms are also designed with wire racks and shelves instead of regular shelving. This eliminates a portion of flat surfaces that contaminants can build up on. 

3. Implement Anti-Static Protection

Electro-static discharge (ESD) can ruin semiconductors’ conductive properties. To prevent ESD, your semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom must take preventative measures. Cleanroom wall panels, flooring, furniture, and more should be manufactured with static dissipative materials. You may also include various ESD-free products like clothing, tools, and cleaning materials. 

4. Plan For Daily Operations

In order to keep production moving and meet consumer demands, your semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom will likely be used daily. It’s important to design the cleanroom in a way that fits your operational plan. Make sure to note the following:

• How your operators enter and exit the cleanroom
• What ESD tests, gowning regimens, airlock rooms, and air showers your operators need to pass through before entry
• How your operators move from task to task within the cleanroom
• How often your operators need to clean the cleanroom, and what that process looks like

This information will help ensure your cleanroom is designed to maximize efficiency and cleanliness — which leads to better production quality, safety, and profitability. 

Design a Semiconductor Manufacturing Cleanroom with Angstrom Technology

Need help getting started on your semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom design? Let the experts at Angstrom Technology help. Our design team can help you make the tough choices and ensure you get the robust solution that’s perfect for your application. 

Request a semiconductor manufacturing cleanroom quote today, or contact us for more information. 

Semiconductors are an essential part of almost every electronic device we rely on in the modern world: computers, cell phones, vehicles, microwaves, washing machines — the list goes on. When there are shortages due to a lack of material or slow production, that delay is felt up the supply chain by every consumer who’s buying a new phone, renting a vehicle, you name it.

In recent years, Americans have felt that pain. Fortunately, the CHIPS and Science Act that was passed in August 2022 will help put those shortages to an end — as it provided over $50 billion in funding for semiconductor manufacturing here in the States.

But that’s not the only factor that will help get new cars back on sales lots and lower the costs of a new iPhone. We must also ensure that semiconductor chip manufacturers are equipped with expertly designed, highly controlled cleanrooms for safe and efficient production.

The Value of Semiconductor Cleanrooms 

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

Semiconductor manufacturing is an incredibly intricate process as semiconductor materials 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

In fact, 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. However, not all processes need this level of control. The packaging, assembly, and testing of circuits or chips could be performed in ISO class 7 or ISO class 8 cleanrooms.

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

Reliable Control

Cleanrooms are designed to establish strict control over the environment and maintain that control at all times. With powerful filtration and HVAC systems working to replace the air with clean, treated, and virtually particle-free air, you can trust the environment to remain stable while employees are completing 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 conditions. They won’t degrade or corrode due to cleaning, impact, or regular use.

Consistent Product Quality

Silicon wafers are extremely vulnerable, where even a single particle of dust can corrupt an entire chip or device. When you can rely on steady temperature, relative humidity, and air quality levels, product quality can also remain steady, even increase. 

Repeatable Results

A repeatable environment produces a better yield of quality products. Scaling production is a matter of replicating the conditions required to produce excellent quality semiconductors.

Safer Working Conditions

A cleanroom and its classification standards protect the products being manufactured from failure due to contamination, but 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 pays off. With the risk of losses and injury reduced, your company can enjoy significant savings. 

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. 

To learn more about semiconductor cleanrooms and get help designing your own, contact the cleanroom experts at Angstrom Technology. We design, build, and install cleanrooms for a wide variety of industries to meet any classification standard. Our cleanrooms are the turnkey solution you’ve been looking for. Get a free quote for your project today.