Cleanroom pass boxes are essential tools for facilitating the movement of items in and out of controlled environments such as laboratories, hospitals, pharmaceutical facilities, and light-industrial settings. In this article, we’ll explore ten crucial aspects you should be aware of when considering cleanroom pass boxes for your facility.

Introduction to Cleanroom Pass Boxes

Cleanroom pass boxes, also known as transfer hatches or pass-through boxes, are designed to maintain the integrity of controlled environments by minimizing the risk of contamination during the transfer of items. They provide a secure and controlled passage for materials between two distinct areas, typically a cleanroom and an uncontrolled environment.

Types of Cleanroom Pass Boxes

Cleanroom pass boxes come in three main types, each catering to different needs:

Static Pass Boxes

Static pass boxes are ideal for situations where ventilation is not necessary within the pass box itself. They are often used for transferring non-sensitive, fast-moving products between two cleanrooms.

Semi-Active Pass Boxes

Semi-active pass boxes offer flexibility, making them suitable for new cleanroom construction. They feature HEPA filters that remove 99.97% of contaminants, making them valuable for achieving higher cleanroom certifications. These pass boxes can also be used between cleanrooms and non-validated areas.

Active Pass Boxes

Active pass boxes are the preferred choice for established cleanrooms. They come equipped with integrated equipment for complex air handling, making them suitable for maintaining controlled environments with precision.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Pass Box

Selecting the right cleanroom pass box is critical for ensuring efficient and secure material transfer. Consider the following factors:

Ventilation and Contamination Filtering

The type of pass box should align with your ventilation needs. Static, semi-active, and active pass boxes differ in their ventilation and contamination-filtering capabilities.

Ease of Cleaning

Pass boxes with flat surfaces are easier to clean, saving time and effort. Additionally, the material of the pass box cover should be compatible with cleaning agents.

Integration into Wall Systems

Ensure that the pass box can seamlessly integrate into your facility’s wall systems, whether they consist of sandwich panels or gypsum boards.

Air Tightness

Precise closing mechanisms are essential to maintain the integrity of cleanroom environments. Pass boxes with aluminum profiles and premium EPDM gaskets provide airtight seals.

Interlocking Mechanisms

Interlocking mechanisms enhance safety by allowing only one door to open at a time. Some pass boxes even offer electronic interlock pins for added security.

Durability and Material

Invest in pass boxes with durable construction, such as 50mm thick aluminum panels or shockproof AISI 304L stainless steel.

Design and Aesthetics

Anodized aluminum doors offer durability and aesthetic appeal. Unique pass box designs that prevent dust accumulation are a practical choice.

Air Pressure Drain

Request an air pressure drain to prevent overpressure and ensure safety within the pass box.

UV Light for Sterilization

Consider pass boxes with germicidal and antibacterial UV light to enhance protection against pathogens.

Supplier and Support

Choose a reputable supplier that offers excellent customer service, quick delivery of accessories, and worldwide shipping options.

Benefits of Using Cleanroom Pass Boxes

The use of cleanroom pass boxes provides several benefits, including:

• Enhanced contamination control
• Improved efficiency in material transfer
• Maintenance of cleanroom integrity
• Compliance with cleanroom certification standards

Applications of Cleanroom Pass Boxes

Cleanroom pass boxes find applications in various settings, including:

Laboratories

In research laboratories, pass boxes enable the safe transfer of samples and equipment without compromising cleanliness.

Hospitals

Hospitals use pass boxes to transport medical supplies and specimens between clean and non-clean areas, reducing the risk of infection.

Pharmaceutical Facilities

In pharmaceutical settings, pass boxes aid in the transfer of raw materials and finished products while maintaining strict hygiene standards.

Light-Industrial Environments

Cleanroom pass boxes are valuable in light-industrial environments for moving small parts and products with minimal contamination risk.

Maintenance and Cleaning of Pass Boxes

Proper maintenance and regular cleaning of pass boxes are essential to ensure their continued functionality and cleanliness.

How Pass Boxes Enhance Cleanroom Certification

The use of pass boxes, especially those with HEPA filters, can contribute to achieving higher cleanroom certification levels.

Safety Features of Pass Boxes

Pass boxes incorporate safety features such as interlocking mechanisms and emergency buttons to prevent accidents during material transfer.

Materials Used in Pass Box Construction

Materials like aluminum panels and stainless steel are commonly used in pass box construction for their durability and resistance to chemicals.

Final Thoughts on Cleanroom Pass Boxes

Cleanroom pass boxes play a pivotal role in maintaining controlled environments. Choosing the right pass box and adhering to proper maintenance practices are essential steps in ensuring the integrity of cleanrooms and controlled environments.

Q&A

1. What are cleanroom pass boxes used for? Cleanroom pass boxes are used to safely transfer items between controlled cleanroom environments and uncontrolled areas while minimizing the risk of contamination.
2. How do different types of pass boxes vary in their functionality? Static, semi-active, and active pass boxes differ in terms of ventilation, contamination filtering, and suitability for various cleanroom scenarios.
3. Why is air tightness important in pass boxes? Air tightness ensures that no contaminants from the surrounding environment enter the cleanroom during material transfer.
4. What are some common applications of cleanroom pass boxes? Cleanroom pass boxes are used in laboratories, hospitals, pharmaceutical facilities, and light-industrial environments for safe material transfer.
5. How can cleanroom pass boxes enhance cleanroom certification? Pass boxes, particularly those with HEPA filters, contribute to achieving higher cleanroom certification levels by reducing contamination risks during material transfer.