2025-06-26
An Air Shower Pass Box is a critical contamination control device used in cleanrooms, laboratories, pharmaceutical facilities, and pathology departments. By combining high-velocity air jets with HEPA filtration, it effectively removes surface particles from materials before transfer between controlled and non-controlled areas.
However, even the most advanced Air Shower Pass Box can only perform reliably when proper maintenance and care are consistently applied. This guide outlines practical maintenance procedures, inspection points, and best practices to ensure long-term performance, safety, and compliance with cleanroom standards.
Routine maintenance of an Air Shower Pass Box is essential for several reasons:
Maintaining airflow efficiency and particle removal performance
Preventing cross-contamination between cleanroom zones
Extending the service life of fans, filters, and control systems
Ensuring compliance with GMP, ISO, and hospital infection control requirements
Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced air velocity, filter blockage, increased noise, or even system failure.
Wipe internal and external surfaces daily using lint-free cloths.
Use approved disinfectants compatible with stainless steel (typically 304 or 316).
Avoid corrosive or abrasive cleaning agents that may damage the cabinet or seals.
Key focus areas:
Inner chamber walls
Nozzle outlets
Door handles and touch panels
Check door seals for cracks, deformation, or aging.
Ensure doors close tightly without gaps.
Verify that the interlocking system prevents simultaneous opening of both doors.
Faulty door interlocks can compromise pressure balance and cleanliness control.
Inspect air nozzles for blockage or dust accumulation.
Ensure airflow direction and angle remain consistent.
Clean nozzles gently using compressed air or soft brushes.
Listen for abnormal noise or vibration during operation.
Confirm stable fan startup and shutdown.
Check control panels, indicator lights, and emergency stop functions.
Any unusual sound or delay may indicate bearing wear or electrical issues requiring professional service.
Inspect pre-filters monthly.
Clean or replace when visibly contaminated or when pressure drop increases.
Proper pre-filter maintenance significantly extends HEPA filter lifespan.
Conduct periodic airflow velocity and pressure drop measurements.
Perform integrity testing (e.g., aerosol or PAO testing) as required by GMP or ISO standards.
Replace HEPA filters when efficiency drops or resistance exceeds design limits.
Note: HEPA filter replacement should always be performed by trained personnel to avoid contamination or damage.
To minimize wear and maximize efficiency:
Avoid overloading the pass box with oversized or heavy items.
Ensure materials are evenly positioned inside the chamber.
Do not force doors open during operation cycles.
Allow the full air shower cycle to complete before opening the exit door.
Proper operator training is as important as technical maintenance.
Maintaining detailed service records helps with audits and troubleshooting:
Cleaning logs
Filter inspection and replacement records
Performance test reports
Fault and repair history
Well-documented maintenance supports regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
An Air Shower Pass Box is a vital safeguard in contamination-controlled environments, but its effectiveness depends heavily on systematic maintenance and responsible operation. Through regular cleaning, timely filter management, functional inspections, and proper documentation, facilities can ensure optimal performance, long-term reliability, and a consistently high level of cleanliness control.
Investing in routine care is not just maintenance—it is a commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.