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FFU vs HEPA Box: What Is the Difference

2026-03-11

Latest company case about FFU vs HEPA Box: What Is the Difference

A Concise Comparison Guide Based on Product Specifications

Introduction

In cleanroom design, Fan Filter Units (FFUs) and HEPA Boxes are two common types of terminal air supply devices. Based on actual product specifications, this article provides a concise comparison and clear tables to help you quickly understand the differences between the two and make an appropriate choice based on your project requirements.

1. What Is an FFU?

An FFU is a modular filtration unit with an integrated fan that can be installed directly into the cleanroom ceiling grid without the need for external ductwork.

GCC Series FFU Core Specifications

Model

Module Size (mm)

Air Volume (m³/h)

Average Air Velocity (m/s)

Power (W)

Filtration Efficiency

GCC-FFU-500

575*575*230

500

0.3–0.5

120

99.99% @ 0.3μm

GCC-FFU-600

615*615*230

600

0.3–0.5

120

99.99% @ 0.3μm

GCC-FFU-900

920*615*230

900

0.3–0.5

200

99.99% @ 0.3μm

GCC-FFU-1000

1175*575*230

1000

0.3–0.5

120

99.99% @ 0.3μm

GCC-FFU-1200

1225*615*230

1200

0.3–0.5

200

99.99% @ 0.3μm

GCC-FFU-2000

1175*1175*260

2000

0.3–0.5

230

99.99% @ 0.3μm

FFU Key Features

✅ Integrated fan, no external ductwork required

✅ Stepless speed control for precise airflow adjustment

✅ Low vibration and low noise operation

✅ Suitable for ISO Class 5-8 cleanrooms

✅ Centralized control for multiple FFUs

✅ Modular design for flexible installation

latest company case about FFU vs HEPA Box: What Is the Difference  0

2. What Is a HEPA Box?

HEPA Box is a terminal filtration device that does not contain an integrated fan and requires connection to a central AHU with ducted air supply.

Powder Coated HEPA Air Supply Outlet Core Specifications

Mini-Pleated HEPA Filter Specifications

Cabinet Size (mm)

Filter Size (mm)

Flange Size (mm)

Rated Airflow (m³/h)

534*534*380

484*484*96

320*200

1000

660*660*380

610*610*96

400*200

1500

915*610*380

915*610*96

500*200

2000

1220*610*380

1220*610*96

500*300

3000

HEPA Filter with Clapboard Specifications

Cabinet Size (mm)

Filter Size (mm)

Flange Size (mm)

Rated Airflow (m³/h)

534*534*380

484*484*220

320*200

1000

660*660*380

610*610*220

400*200

1500

915*610*500

915*610*220

500*200

2000

1220*610*500

1220*610*220

500*300

3000

HEPA Box Key Features

✅ No built-in fan, relies on central AHU for air supply

✅ Room-side replaceable filter

✅ Welded structure for excellent airtightness

✅ Adjustable butterfly damper for airflow balancing

✅ Suitable for pharmaceutical, semiconductor GMP cleanrooms

✅ Optional vertical or horizontal airflow patterns

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3. FFU vs HEPA Box: Core Differences Comparison

Comparison Item

FFU

HEPA Box

Built-in Fan

✅ Yes

❌ No

Central AHU Required

❌ No (optional for makeup air)

✅ Yes

Ductwork Required

❌ No

✅ Yes

Installation Method

Drop into ceiling grid

Install after duct connection

Cabinet Height

230-260mm (low profile)

380-500mm (taller)

Control Method

Individual or centralized control

Relies on AHU and damper control

Filter Replacement

Room-side replacement

Room-side replacement

Max Airflow per Unit

2000 m³/h

3000 m³/h

Applicable Classes

ISO 5-8

ISO 5-8

Typical Applications

Modular cleanrooms, clean booths

Large pharmaceutical, semiconductor cleanrooms

4. How to Choose?

Choose FFU When

Retrofit project with limited plenum space

Using modular cleanroom construction

Need independent zone control

Anticipating frequent layout changes

Cleanroom is small to medium in size

Choose HEPA Box When

New construction large cleanroom

Existing central AHU system available

Sufficient plenum height

Layout is long-term stable, no frequent changes

Energy efficiency is a priority (central fans are more efficient)

Hybrid Approach

Many projects adopt a FFU + Central AHU hybrid approach:

FFUs handle internal recirculation

Central AHU provides makeup air

Balances flexibility and energy efficiency

5. Summary

Dimension

FFU

HEPA Box

Flexibility

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐

Installation Ease

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐⭐

Space Requirement

Low plenum acceptable

Requires higher plenum

Initial Cost

Higher equipment cost, lower installation cost

Lower equipment cost, higher installation cost

Operating Cost

Higher energy (multiple fans)

Lower energy (central fans)

Maintenance Convenience

Independent maintenance, units don't affect each other

AHU failure affects all

Suitable Scenarios

Retrofit, modular, small-medium projects

New large construction, stable layout projects

There is no absolute right or wrong—only what is suitable for your project.