Answers to Frequently Asked Questions...
Why do I need a cleanroom?
The electronics, high-tech, semiconductor, pharmaceutical, aerospace, medical and many other industries rely on cleanroom technology. As products such as cell phones and microchips get smaller, the chance for contamination during the manufacturing processes becomes higher. For these types of companies, clean, safe, contaminant-free products are essential to manufacturing and distributing a profitable product.
What is a cleanroom?
Can I redesign my cleanroom when my needs change?
Yes. Every company’s needs change overtime, and their cleanrooms can change right along with them. All our cleanrooms are ‘backward compatible’, meaning they can be expanded or decreased in size, components can be added or removed or any change can be made to your existing room.
What type of company should design, install and equip my cleanroom?
With all of the different requirements for cleanrooms, you need a company that can take care of all your needs. Angstrom Technology is an expert in all aspects of cleanroom design, installation and maintenance and are here to help you with anything you need for your cleanroom, before, during and after the installation. We even have all of the supplies you need to make your room operate efficiently.
Will I need an engineer or architect to design my room?
No. We’re not only cleanroom experts, we’re engineers! Our cleanroom specialists are experts in every part of cleanrooms, including design. We can design the entire room for you, or work with your staff to create the perfect room for your needs. Our cleanrooms are pre-fabricated, completely customizable and designed to your specs.
What kind of cleanroom do I need?
That depends on what you will use it for. With so many different options, we can design a cleanroom that fits your requirements now, and for years to come. Contact us today to discuss your options and find the perfect room.
Can I use my existing building structure?
Yes. Our hardwall and rigidwall cleanrooms can be installed in a variety of environments as a free-standing or architecturally supported structure. Contact our cleanroom specialists and we’ll visit you on-site to discuss your framework and recommend a cleanroom to work within your existing structure. Softwall cleanrooms are typically only designed as free-standing structures.
How is the quality of Angstrom’s cleanrooms?
Angstrom’s cleanrooms are pre-fabricated and thoroughly inspected before shipping. However, the completed cleanroom is only as good as the construction crew. If your crew installs the room, we’ll provide complete installation instructions. Or, have Angstrom’s professional installers build your room; we guarantee the quality of our workmanship and products for one full year year.
How much will my cleanroom cost?
Again, it depends on what you will use it for, and what class of cleanroom you need. As your requirements get stricter, the cost usually gets higher. For instance, a class 100 cleanroom will cost more than a class 10,000 cleanroom. Costs associated with filtration, temperature, humidity control and other factors increase or decrease the price. Because of all these variables, it is impossible to give an estimate for your project here on our website. Please fill out the ‘Cleanroom Quote Questionnaire’ and we’ll have a cost estimate for you as soon as possible.
How does the cost of a modular cleanroom compare with conventional construction?
When you compare features, installation and maintenance of a modular cleanroom to conventional construction, the modular room will always cost less. And consider that you can depreciate a modular room up to 5 times faster than a conventional room; there is no comparison.
How is faster depreciation of a modular cleanroom beneficial to my company?
With current tax laws, the bottom line is that conventional construction’s initial cost would need to be over 30% less to match the tax advantages of a modular cleanroom.
Can my cleanroom be relocated and reused?
Yes. All Angstrom cleanrooms are easily relocated, with components that knockdown and reinstall quickly. Your cleanroom is a long-term investment that moves when you do.
Do you lease cleanrooms?
Yes. Long and short term leases are available, as well as pre-owned equipment. Often, that’s just as cost effective as leasing.
How strong are the walls?
Hardwall cleanroom walls are made of fiberglass, aluminum, steel, plastic laminate, reinforced plastic or vinyl. Softwall and rigidwall cleanroom walls are made of reinforced plastic, plastic laminate or vinyl. Each type of wall has its own benefits and we’ll be happy to help you decide which will work best for you. All walls are impact resistant for long life and once installed with the strong frame, will hold up to your working conditions for years.
Does a cleanroom control sound?
Yes, it can. Depending on the type of room, and the type of walls, a cleanroom can control sound in even the loudest manufacturing conditions. If sound control is an issue to your company, let us know and we can design a room just for your needs.
How fast can I start using my cleanroom?
Angstrom’s rooms are typically installed within 2-4 weeks. Smaller rooms may take less time, and large rooms may require a little more time. But with an industry standard of 4-8 weeks for delivery, you get exactly what you need in a shorter amount of time with Angstrom Technology.
Will the construction disrupt my facility?
Any type of construction will disrupt your facility to some degree, however the more quickly you can install the cleanroom, the less disruptive construction will be. Since Angstrom’s cleanrooms install more quickly than others, and delivery is customized to your needs, you’ll have less disruptions and more productivity.
Will there be any mess from the assembly of the cleanroom?
ny type of cleanroom assembly will leave a mess, however Angstrom’s cleanrooms are simple to install, with minimal packaging, so you have less to clean up. If you don’t have time to worry about any of the clean-up, let us install the cleanroom for you. Our professional installation crew will take care of everything, right down to cleaning up every little piece of trash.
Are permits needed?
Small rooms within a plant or other existing building typically do not require a permit, but you should consult your local building codes department before you begin. Large rooms can require a permit and Angstrom’s cleanroom experts can help you determine if a permit may be needed, and help you work local building code authorities.
What are my options for air circulation?
There are many different options for air flow in your cleanroom. Some options require air plenums (empty space for air recirculation), and others use air from outside the room. One type is no better than another; your needs dictate which will work best. We’re happy to discuss your needs and recommend an air circulation system. For details on each type of air flow schematic, click here. (link to schematics page)
What is the process for designing and building a cleanroom?
We’re cleanroom specialists familiar with all aspects of designing, building and maintaining a cleanroom. We’ll guide you through every step of this process and deliver exactly the room you need, on-time and within budget.
- Send us a Cleanroom Quote Questionnaire (link to the form) or give us a call
- We’ll ask you questions to learn more about your needs
- We’ll prepare a proposal for you, including all cleanroom components, supplies and installation costs
- The proposal will then be refined to ensure it fits your specifications perfectly
- We create plans for the design and installation, including CAD drawings and fabrication plans
- We manage the procurement and delivery of all cleanroom components
- The cleanroom is installed by Angstrom’s crew, or complete installation instructions are provided to your crew. We can even consult with your crew to be sure they get it exactly right.
- Testing and certification for your room may be required, and we can help arrange that
- Your cleanroom is operational and ready for productivity!
What if I need to replace a major component of my cleanroom?
We can help you with that too! We offer all the components of a cleanroom and can help you replace them quickly and easily.
What is Federal Standard 209E?
It’s a government document that outlines the classes for air cleanliness. Although it’s not specific to cleanrooms, the industry has adopted it as its own standards.
You can also find more information about cleanrooms in the Online Glossary or Industry Links.