Operating an aerospace cleanroom requires strict contamination control. Effective air filtration is crucial for removing harmful particles that can damage sensitive components and electronics. Replacing filters regularly is essential to maintain air quality.

This guide will walk you through when and how to replace filters in your aerospace cleanroom. Follow these best practices from YOUTH, a leading cleanroom filter manufacturer, to keep your clean space compliant and contamination-free.

Why Aerospace Cleanrooms Need Specialized Filtration

Aerospace cleanrooms have unique air quality requirements. Sensitive processes like spacecraft assembly and semiconductor fabrication demand exceptionally clean environments.

Particles, chemicals, or biological contaminants can ruin these sensitive components and electronics. Cleanroom filters provide a critical contamination barrier by supplying purified, filtered air.

The Components of an Aerospace Cleanroom Filtration System

Effective cleanroom air filtration involves a multi-stage system:

• Prefilters – Capture larger particles like skin cells and dust. Usually pleated panel filters.
• HEPA Filters – High efficiency particulate air filters. Remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger.
• ULPA Filters – Ultra low penetration air filters. Eliminate 99.999% of particles 0.12 microns or larger.
• Fan Filter Units – Force air through filters and circulate it. Mounted in the ceiling grid.

This combination provides the ultra purified air needed for an ISO 5-7 cleanroom.

Inspecting Filters – When to Replace

Regular inspection and replacement is crucial for cleanroom filters to function properly. Use this schedule from YOUTH as a guideline:

Prefilters

• Check monthly
• Replace 2-3 times per year

HEPA/ULPA Filters

• Inspect annually
• Replace every 5-7 years

Location impacts frequency – Replace more often if high outdoor pollution.

Accessing Filters in an Aerospace Cleanroom

Cleanroom filters install into the ceiling grid. But manufacturers like YOUTH make regular maintenance easy by:

• Mounting prefilters in accessible wall grilles near the floor.
• Providing portals in the ceiling to reach HEPA/ULPA filters.

This avoids regularly breaching the ceiling which would require re-certification.

Replacing Prefilters

Follow this process to replace your aerospace cleanroom’s prefilters:

1. Turn off the fan filter unit.
2. Open the wall grille and slide out the used pleated prefilter.
3. Inspect the grille and clean if necessary.
4. Slide in the new prefilter and close the grille.
5. Restart the fan filter unit.

Replacing HEPA/ULPA Filters

Replacing HEPA/ULPA filters in your ceiling grid involves:

1. Turn off the fan filter unit.
2. Open the portal and detach the used filter.
3. Inspect the fan filter unit housing and clean if needed.
4. Install the new HEPA/ULPA filter into the housing.
5. Close the portal and turn on the fan filter unit.

Trust Filter Replacement to Professionals

Maintaining cleanroom filters requires expertise. YOUTH’s professional service team can handle replacements and keep your filters performing optimally.

Routine maintenance from YOUTH provides:

• Skilled filter installation and replacement
• Regular inspections to identify issues
• Help maintaining a filter replacement schedule
• Ensuring your cleanroom meets stringent ISO standards

Keep Your Aerospace Cleanroom Compliant

Follow this cleanroom filter replacement guide from YOUTH to maintain air quality. Proper filtration is essential for controlling contamination in aerospace cleanrooms.

Replace prefilters 2-3 times per year and HEPA/ULPA filters every 5-7 years. Inspect regularly and contact YOUTH to schedule professional maintenance. Keeping your filters in excellent condition ensures compliance and uninterrupted operation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Aerospace Cleanroom Filters

What size filters are used in aerospace cleanrooms?

Aerospace cleanrooms typically use 24″ x 24″ x 2″ pleated panel prefilters and 24″ x 24″ x 12″ HEPA/ULPA filters in a ceiling grid layout. The actual size can vary based on room dimensions and air handling requirements.

How can I tell when my HEPA filter needs replacement?

Check your aerospace cleanroom’s HEPA filter annually and replace it if you see significant particles or discoloration. Replace HEPA filters at least every 5-7 years even if they appear clean. Their performance degrades over time.

Does turning off the fan filter unit save energy?

Turning off fan filter units when the cleanroom is unoccupied can save some energy. However, the room will take longer to return to the proper ISO class after startup. Leaving them on ensures constant air quality.

Should I hire an external company to replace my filters?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional cleanroom service company like YOUTH to handle periodic filter replacement and maintenance. They have the expertise to properly maintain your critical filtration system.

What is the recommended air change rate for an aerospace cleanroom?

Air change rate depends on the ISO class, but 60-90 changes per hour is typical for an aerospace cleanroom. Higher air change rates result in better contamination control. YOUTH can advise on ideal air change rates.