I. Definition and Overview

An Air Shower is a specialized enclosed chamber installed at the entry or exit of cleanrooms and controlled environments. It uses high-velocity filtered air to remove particulate contaminants from personnel, equipment, or materials before they enter or leave a controlled space. This process ensures compliance with international cleanroom standards such as ISO 14644-1: Cleanrooms and associated controlled environments and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) requirements. Key filtration technology includes HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) and ULPA (Ultra-Low Penetration Air) filters.

II. Working Principle

The air shower operates based on a closed-loop circulation system:

• Air Circulation: High-velocity jets (20–30 m/s) blow contaminants off the surface of garments and objects.
• Filtration System: Air is drawn through pre-filters and HEPA/ULPA filters (≥99.99% efficiency for 0.3 μm particles).
• Cross-Contamination Prevention: The interlocking door mechanism ensures only one door is open at a time, avoiding unfiltered air exchange.
• Automatic Control: Programmable microcontrollers regulate shower duration, airflow velocity, and lighting.

III. Main Functions and Roles

• Reduces cross-contamination risk in cleanrooms.
• Ensures compliance with ISO 14644-1 and GMP cleanroom standards.
• Protects sensitive processes such as pharmaceutical production, biotechnology, and semiconductor manufacturing.
• Improves production efficiency and product yield by maintaining clean environments.

IV. Structural Features and Materials

Air showers are constructed using robust, cleanroom-compatible materials:

• Stainless Steel (SS304/SS316): Corrosion-resistant, easy to clean.
• Powder-Coated Steel: Durable and economical.
• Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight, anti-corrosion.
• Tempered Glass: Transparent viewing panels for visibility and safety.

V. Classification and Technical Parameters

Air showers can be classified by application type (personnel air showers, material air showers, tunnel type) and design configuration (single-person, multi-person, two-side entry, three-side entry).

VI. Typical Application Industries

• Cleanroom Engineering
• Medical and Healthcare Facilities
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
• Biotechnology & Life Sciences
• Semiconductor and Electronics
• Environmental Technology and Research Laboratories
• Laboratory Engineering and Equipment Manufacturing

VII. Installation and Usage Considerations

• Install in compliance with ISO 14644-1 and GMP Annex 1 standards.
• Ensure air shower is properly sealed with interlocking doors.
• Regular calibration of air velocity and pressure differential sensors is required.
• Power supply should be grounded to avoid static interference.

VIII. Maintenance and Care

• Regularly clean and disinfect chamber surfaces.
• Replace pre-filters every 3–6 months and HEPA/ULPA filters every 12–18 months, depending on usage.
• Inspect electrical systems and interlocking doors quarterly.
• Calibrate control systems annually to ensure compliance with standards.