Each month, CleanRooms brings you innovative products of interest to you and your industry. As we reach the end of 2004, we've compiled this complete collection of the products we've featured over the past year. From apparel to wafer sorters, you'll find it here in “Products of the Year.”
Quiet efficiency
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A comprehensive line of AC and brushless DC (electronically commutated) fan filter units are available in 4×4-ft., 2×4-ft. and custom sizes. These FFUs are designed with acoustically quiet and high-efficiency fans and motors. Brushless DC units incorporate voltage and universal frequency AC power input designed to enable use of one model for both U.S. and overseas applications. Options include room-side replaceable filters, carbon filtration, acoustical insulation that meets UBC flame spread and smoke requirements, and a packaged control and monitoring system.
CLEANPAK International
Clackamas, OR
www.cleanpak.com
Low power-consumption FFU motors
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The MicroWatt motor options to the company's SAM Group of FFUs are available in 2-, 4- and 6-ft. as well as 4×4 units. The motors feature lower power consumption designed to result in lower operating costs. When used with the company's Airlink Control System, SAM units with Micro-Watt motors provide complete control from a remote panel or PC, whether linked individually or in groups.
Clean Rooms International Inc.
Grand Rapids, MI
www.cleanroomsint.com
Constant flow blower
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Lau Blower Units are engineered as integrated wheel/cone/bracket/motor controller packages. They feature the company's backward-curved centrifugal 12-inch wheel with a GE ECM 2.3 series motor that can be programmed to work in conjunction with the blower's performance curve. The blower assembly is designed to offer constant flow operation across a range of system restriction points, quiet operation, and 30 percent improvement in energy consumption over competitive systems.
Lau Industries
Lenexa, KS
www.lau-ind.com
Next-gen system
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The Next Generation FFU System is designed to offer up to 70 percent energy savings compared to a conventional FFU system, plus greater system control that allows for monitoring, remote access and alterations in airflow. The system is designed for new or retrofit environments in a variety of industries, including semiconductor design and manufacturing, food processing, and biomedical and pharmaceutical production. Using computational fluid dynamics, engineers have designed the Huntair AF 300—a new fan and inlet cone assembly with blades and angles matching the FFU's air-flow requirement.
Huntair Inc.
Corvalis, OR
www.huntair.com
For pharm processing
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The MAC 10 Rx FFU is designed specifically for pharmaceutical processing environments. It combines low sound and vibration with low watts and a low profile designed to minimize the presence of contaminants in critical areas. Designated RSRE for room-side-replaceable-everything, the unit features a room-side replaceable 1/3 horsepower ECM motor and gel-seal HEPA filter. Combined with a field-adjustable digital control unit, the brushless DC motor is designed to automatically compensate for filter loading, thereby maintaining constant airflow velocity.
Envirco Corp.
Albuquerque, NM
www.envirco.com
Motor efficiencies
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The GE ECM 2.3 series motors for FFU systems have a speed range of 300 to 1200 RPM. The motor's permanent magnet DC design lets it maintain its efficiency over a wide speed range—as high as 82 percent, or 20 percent more efficient than a standard induction motor at full load. In constant fan speed, the ECM 2.3 consumes 60 to 80 watts, compared to 400 watts for an induction motor.
GE Industrial Systems
Plainville, CT
www.geindustrial.com
FFU for ceiling or wall
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The F2000 is designed to be installed in a T-grid, gypsum ceiling or in a wall or horizontal installation for increasing air changes per hour in any room in need of upgrading. Constructed of stainless steel, the FFU can draw air from the top or ends. Variable speed control allows for a minimum of 60-150 FPM, with an average noise level of 63 db. The motor/blower design allows for 90 FPM average. Certified and tested before shipping, the F2000 is available in 2×2-ft. and 2×4-ft. as well as custom sizes.
Laminar Flow Inc.
Ivyland, PA
www.laminarflowinc.com
Noises off
Constructed with proprietary sound-inhibiting materials, the Eagle FFU is designed for performance while maintaining exceptionally low decibel readings (below 50) especially suited for cleanrooms with a higher percentage of filter coverage. The Eagle is available in 115 V or 277 V models, and in 2×4-ft. and custom sizes.
Facilities Inc.
Oregon City, OR
www.facilitiesinc.com
Jazz up your room
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The JazzFM fan filter module provides filtration for use in conventional and softwall cleanrooms. The module can be used to retrofit and upgrade an existing area or provide clean air at the point of use. The standard unit draws 1.1 amps for the 115 V version, or .55 amps for the 230 V model. Options include 12-inch duct collar, room-side replaceability, and ULPA filtration.
Ultrapure Technology Inc.
Suwanee, GA
www.ultrapuretechnology.com
Low-cost polyester
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The Novation line of private-label supplies includes a low-cost, high-quality 9×9-inch polyester wiper. The product is laser cut, laundered, double-bagged, and available in various quantities. The company's catalog also offers a diverse mix of wipers from other leading manufacturers.
Cintas Cleanroom Resources
Cincinnati, OH
www.CintasCleanroom.com
Sterile polyester/cellulose
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Comprised of durable hydroentangled polyester/cellulose, and sterilized using gamma irradiation, SterileSorb nonwoven wipers are designed for general purpose cleaning in sterile environments. The extra-absorbent fabric features low levels of particles and extractables. Wipers, available in 9×9-inch and 12×12-inch sizes, are packaged in peelable outer bags and linear tear inner bags. Embossed lot numbers on both bags ensure lot traceability.
Contec
Spartanburg, SC
www.contecinc.com
Thermally-sealed wipers
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ThermaSeal 60 hot-cut polyester wipers are for all-purpose cleaning in critical environments. Thermally-sealed edges provide fiber control. Products are available in 9×9-inch and 4×4-inch sizes, and feature good absorbency, wiping efficiency and abrasion resistance. Recom-mended for ISO Class 3-5 cleanrooms where fiber control is essential, ThermaSeal wipers are produced and packaged in an ISO Class 4 cleanroom laundry. Double-knit construction allows for rigorous wiping with minimal release of particles and fibers.
ITW Texwipe
Upper Saddle River, NJ
www.itwtexwipe.com
Validated wipes
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Validated sterile wipes are gamma irradiated with Cobalt-60 to a sterility assurance level of 10-6 in accordance with procedures outlined in Standard AAMI/ISO 11137-Method 1. Each shipment is lot-traceable and accompanied by Certificates of Processing and Sterility. Linear-tear packaging is designed for easy use while wearing gloves.
Lymtech Scientific
Chicopee, MA
www.lymtech.com
Nonwoven additions
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Anticon by Milliken has added nonwoven wipers to its portfolio, including the Matrix and Captura brands. Matrix is designed to provide what the manufacturer calls “unparalleled” wiping performance, while the Captura family are billed as the most sorbent nonwovens available.
Anticon by Milliken
LaGrange, GA
www.milliken.com
Testing for quality assurance
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The line of cleanroom wipers from Berkshire is subjected to test properties that contamination-control professionals identify as most critical. Special tests are also conducted for absorbency, specific absorbency, and time to half-sorption. Purity testing includes extractables and metallic ions.
Berkshire Corporation
Great Barrington, MA
www.berkshire.com
Battery-operated counter
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The Solair 5100+ line of battery-operated laser particle counters offers a sensitivity of 0.5 µm and a flow rate of 1.0 cfm (28.3 LPM), with a wide dynamic range up to 25.0 µm. The series features a new large, color (5.7″) backlit touchscreen interface. Particle count data from six channels and from up to four environmental sensors can be stored—all downloadable to either computer or the counter's own built-in thermal printer. A lithium-ion battery is rechargeable.
Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions
Milpitas, CA
www.golighthouse.com
Portable airborne particle counter
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Portable APC airborne particle counters are used for the detection of particulate contamination in controlled environments, or anywhere particulate contamination is a concern. Features include 0.2-micrometer particle sensitivity, ability to measure six size ranges simultaneously, 1 cubic foot per minute flow rate, and three concentration modes.
Biotest Diagnostics Corp.
Denville, NJ
www.BiotestUSA.com
Facility monitoring software
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CIMScan facility monitoring software is designed for easy monitoring of particle counter instrumentation and key parameters in critical areas of a facility. The software provides a complete environmental monitoring solution and, according to the company, typically requires no training for configuration and use. Parameters monitored include particle counts, filter conditions, airflow rates, electrostatic discharge, temperature, relative humidity and differential pressure.
Hach Ultra Analytics
Grants Pass, OR
www.hachultra.com
Four-parameter particle counter
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The Kanomax Model 3886 (shown with optional probes) hand-held particle counter is, according to the manufacturer, the only instrument of its kind on the market that is capable of measuring four parameters: particles, air velocity, temperature, and relative humidity. The device measures five particle sizes (0.3, 0.5, 1, 3 and 5 µm), and is designed to hold 500 samples in data memory. The company says that its Model 3886 is especially suited for monitoring and verifying cleanrooms and test filters, and for tracking down particle sources.
Kanomax USA Inc.
New York, NY
www.kanomax-usa.com
Thermally-chilled counter
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Billed as the first monitor to use a thermally-chilled, solid-state diode laser to count 0.1 µm particles, the LASAIR II-110 aerosol particle monitor is designed to provide accuracy and reduced operating costs while offering a three-year laser warranty. The device stores 3,000 samples, provides a wide range of data collection and recipe features and, according to the manufacturer, the LASAIR II-110 is the only particle counter you can control from your desktop Web browser as it samples in the cleanroom and then downloads data in Excel.
Particle Measuring Systems
Boulder, CO
www.pmeasuring.com
Synthetic and triple-layer alternatives
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Cardinal Health's Esteem clean-process synthetic gloves are made of a polyisoprene synthetic rubber that has the look-and-feel of latex without natural rubber latex proteins and allergens. Esteem gloves are designed to offer the comfort and fit of latex plus greater strength and durability than neoprene gloves. The company's Protegrity gloves are triple-layered and powder-free. These gloves are especially designed for use in pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device applications.
Cardinal Health
McGraw Park, IL
www.cardinal.com
Latex-free disposable
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N-DEX, billed as the first latex-free, nitrile disposable glove, is designed to provide flexible, puncture-resistant hand protection in the cleanroom. Crafted for environments where safety and exacting standards of industrial hygiene are critical, N-DEX is made of a patented, low-modulus formulation to help reduce hand fatigue.
Best Manufacturing
Menlo, GA
www.bestglove.com
Class 100 sterile gloves
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A new line of sterile, hand-specific, 12-inch latex and nitrile gloves designed specifically for medical-technical applications is Class 100 rated. All-new packaging features poly wallet and HDPE outer packaging. Designed for easy “double-gloving,” with tapered, beaded cuff, the company's gloves are manufactured in a ISO 9001:2000-certified facility.
CT International
San Luis Obispo, CA
www.ctint.org
Powder-free nitrile
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Featuring micro-textured fingers for enhanced grip control, these nitrile gloves are powder-free and contain no natural rubber latex. Sizes are small through extra large and available in 9-inch and 12-inch lengths, all cleanroom-packaged and double-bagged.
Hutchins & Hutchins Inc.
Waynesboro, VA
www.yourcleanroomsupplier.com
Low-particle design
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The VTGNCRB12 cleanroom nitrile glove, according to its manufacturer, is designed with the lowest upper particle limit (less than 750 particles compared to typical tests of 350 particles or less). Other specifications can be found at the company's Web site.
Value-Tek
Phoenix, AZ
www.value-tek.com
Thicker yet flexible
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The Solo Ultra 8 mil 980 disposable glove is designed to provide added protection without compromising comfort or dexterity. The 100 percent nitrile, powder-free glove provides 8 mils of hand and product protection while offering extended (12-inch) length.
MAPA AdvanTech
Broadview Heights, OH
www.mapaglove.com
AK-unsupported natural gloves
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The AK-unsupported natural rubber gloves feature 100 percent natural rubber latex for dexterity and elasticity, but with powder-free manufacturing process designed to reduce particulate and extractable contamination. A diamond-embossed palm is designed for sure dry or wet grip. Testing includes IEST-RP-CC05.3 (modified) for particulate and extractables, and ASTM 739 for permeation. All gloves are cleanroom-packaged and double-bagged.
North Safety Products Canada
Toronto, Ontario
www.northsafety.ca
PVC, nitrile varieties
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The Renaissance 12-inch, 100 percent PVC is a 5-mil ambidextrous glove, designed as an alternative to low-cost PVC imported gloves. The White is a 12-inch, 100 percent nitrile for use in the cleanroom as well as for disk drive manufacturing.
Oak Technical
Stow, OH
www.OakGloves.com
Nitrile smorgasbord
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Techniglove Class 10 12-inch ambidextrous nitrile gloves are available in three colors to allow coding by size, product, and coded double-gloving. The company's X Glove is 9.5 inches and manufactured 8 mils thick to provide extra strength and protection. The fully-textured glove is designed for exceptional grip while offering added protection from abrasion, punctures and tears. In addition, the company's Technipak is billed as the only PVC dispenser box with 5-mil-thick nitrile gloves for use in contamination-control environments.
Techniglove International
Yorba Linda, CA
www.techniglove.com
Three-step mat
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For the industry-recommended “three steps” for 99 percent removal of foot contamination, the 3-Step Mat is a washable, static-dissipative, contamination-control mat that features the manufacturer's high-tack polymer surface. The mat features a cushioned, non-slip base, does not particulate, and is silicone- and DOP-free. Available in blue or gray, the 78-inch wide mat comes in various lengths.
Dycem Technologies
Warwick, RI
www.dycemusa.com
Anti-skid shoe cover
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Disposable contamination-control shoe covers are lightweight yet designed for durability and comfort. Made of nonwoven 100 percent spunbound polypropylene with stitched seams, the covers feature a 20-inch conductive ribbon on the sole, and sprayed latex anti-skid treads. According to the company, the product conforms to IES-RP-CC-003.2 Recommended Practice for Cleanroom Garments. The covers are stacked and rolled in polybags, 150 pair per case.
Hutchins & Hutchins
Waynesboro, VA
www.yourcleanroomsupplier.com
Anti-static fabric
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Ground Zero grounded garments are designed to protect against particulate contamination and uncontrolled static discharge. Lab coats and coveralls include electrically connected hoods and conductive footwear that are made of Class 100-compatible materials and construction. Panel-to-panel electrical continuity is confirmed in 10E7 range throughout the warranty period—100 washes or two years. Garments are available with patented dual independent paths to ground for interfacing to continuous monitoring systems.
TW Clean
Carlsbad, CA
www.twclean.com
Cleanroom chairs
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EA Series narrow-back ergonomic cleanroom chairs are for intense work requiring upper torso stability and mobility plus eye-hand coordination. The chairs are available with performance packages for ISO Class 3 through Class 6 cleanroom applications, static control environments, and ISO Class 3 through Class 6 combination cleanroom/static control settings. The backrest is only eight inches wide and is built to support the spine, provide lumbar support and give the chair user good range of motion without backrest restraint.
BioFit Engineered Products
Waterville, OH
www.biofit.com
Reusable woven polyester
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WK 3000 material is woven from 100 percent filament polyester yarn with carbon fibers laced into a stripe throughout the material. This durable fabric is designed to repel fluids, prevent particulation and dissipate static electricity. The manufacturer's entire line of Ultima reusable apparel is available with the WK 3000 material.
White Knight Engineered Products
Charlotte, NC
www.wkep.com
Shelf grounding
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The ESD Clip electrically connects a wire shelf to a shelf post to reduce electrostatic discharge risks caused by ungrounded shelving. The manufacturer claims the clip installs quickly without tools, and provides visual indication that the shelves are grounded.
Static Dynamics
Beaverton, OR
>www.Static-Dynamics.com
Full-pitch FOSB
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The front-opening shipping box (FOSB) is designed to protect 300-mm silicon wafers during shipping. It also protects wafers from particles, molecular contamination, shock and vibration—all of which can occur during the shipping process. The FOSB is designed to ensure accurate wafer placement and also enables what the company claims is reliable equipment interoperability.
Entegris
Chaska, MN
www.entegris.com
300-mm wafer sorter
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The Spartan Integrated Sorter, designed as a unified wafer management solution for 300-mm processes, moves wafers cleanly and quickly. According to the company, the Spartan delivers industry-leading cleanliness and the lowest particle levels when compared to competitive sorters. The all-in-one solution, according to the manufacturer, contrasts with traditional sorters that require integrating multiple off-the-shelf components. The Spartan features an optimized minienvironment with better than Class 1 cleanroom performance. It also incorporates dual, ultra-thin edge-grip wafer handling for “fast swap” wafer exchanges or movement of two wafers simultaneously.
Asyst Technologies
Fremont, CA
www.asyst.com
Wafer transfer cart
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Wafer cassette transport carts are designed to optimize maneuverability in restricted-space critical environments. Built for Class 1 to Class 10 cleanrooms, the carts are designed to offer cost savings and improved efficiencies over comparable carts that are heavier and bulkier. A specially-designed shelf, says the manufacturer, holds wafers securely and provides outstanding laminar flow. Shelf height is 40 inches from the floor, with an adjustable-height push handle included for improved ergonomics. Softie-style plate casters are included to provide vibration dampening without black rubber/tread associated with traditional pneumatic casters. A variety of configurations and sizes are available.
Eagle MHC
Clayton, DE
www.eaglegrp.com
Automated wafer carrier inspection system
Designed to characterize cassettes and FOUPs to enhance yield, the CV Series of automated wafer carrier inspection systems provide the most accurate and repeatable wafer position measurements, while a touch probe accurately measures non-visual FOUP features. The Series features inspection for most SEMI-standard dimensions, an intuitive Windows-based interface, adaptability to various process specifications, Class 10 cleanroom compatibility, and what the manufacturer claims are unmatched accuracy levels, including 0.0025-mm on direct measurement points and 0.0762-mm on rear wafer position (rigid wafer).
August Technology
Bloomington, MN
www.augusttech.com
Wafer-handling tweezers
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A line of wafer-handling tweezers features a specially sharpened blade that eases pick-up, while a special engaging stop is designed to prevent chipping of silicon and gallium wafers. The tweezers are made of a steel-extruded alloy with 40 percent cobalt for hardness and longevity. Styles include bent-handle, lip-type blade, hard-Teflon tip, wire-type maximum opening stop (MOS), and pin-type MOS. The non-corrosive, non-magnetic tools are available with 3, 4, 6 and 8 teeth (the latter designed especially for 300-mm wafers).
Terra Universal
Anaheim, CA
www.terrauniversal.com
Pharm packaging system
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This barrier system, commonly used in Class 100 cleanroom pharmaceutical packaging environments, is designed to provide a simple and cost-effective method of separating an aseptic process from the surrounding environment and personnel. According to the company, the system ensures that nothing impedes the flow of air from the cleanroom ceiling downward to the process. The smooth-surfaced interior and exterior allows for regular spray-and-wipe disinfecting. The equipment is suitable for use in FDA-approved biological production facilities.
Absolute Control Systems
Golden, CO
www.absolutecontrolsys.com
Custom-fit for critical areas
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Custom enclosures and barriers are designed and manufactured to fit the needs of the process line or critical work areas. Barriers are available with HEPA/ ULPA filtration, as well as carbon filters, alarm systems, and explosion-proof electrical systems. An assortment of construction materials is available.
Atmos-Tech Industries
Ocean, NJ
www.atmostech.com
Semiconductor minienvironment
The MiniMax system Equipment Front End Module (EFEM) is designed for use with semiconductor processing equipment and back-end systems. The minienvironment can be designed to meet virtually any system and application requirements, and is especially suited to team with the company's line of wafer and reticle-handling equipment. The software-controlled Class 1 minienvironment, according to the company, complies with SEMI and SEMATECH standards and guidelines. It features an automatic pressure control system that adjusts fan speed to maintain pressure set points, integrated controls and monitoring, FFU with VFD-controlled impeller and PTFE media filter, and integral lighting.
Genmark Automation
Milpitas, CA
www.genmarkautomation.com
Chamber on the go
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Billed as a roving cleanroom alternative, this portable dual-chamber mobile isolation chamber (MIC) features separate processing and product chambers, a Class 100 environment, minimal heat generation, and adjustable working height. It is designed for cost-effective, quiet, advanced aseptic processing.
Containment Technologies Group Inc.
Indianapolis, IN
www.mic4.com
Multiple operator isolator
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MicroSphere barrier isolators are design-ed to provide a Class 10 minienvironment, manufactured with unidirectional positive pressure for preparing sterile components, or with negative pressure for safe handling of chemotherapeutics or toxic drugs and powders. These anodized aluminum units are available in a variety of sizes, widths and depths to accommodate a single operator or multiple operators. According to the manufacturer, the MicroSphere's unidirectional flow provides the equivalent of a laminar flow hood inside the minienvironment.
IsoTech Design
St. Laurent, Quebec
www.isotechdesign.com
Laminar flow isolator
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This Laminar Flow Glovebox/Isolator (LFGI) is a USP 797-compliant cleanroom alternative. The all-stainless steel isolator incorporates laminar flow technology into a contained unit that can operate as either a positive-pressure isolator or negative-pressure glovebox (as per new NIOSH standards). Features include an adjustable stand, sliding work trays, and optional HEPA-filtered purge airlock.
Purified microEnvironments
Ormond Beach, FL
www.purified.com
Minienvironment enclosure
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Minienvironment Equipment Enclosures are designed to offer a particle-free, static-free environment for microelectronics equipment, balances, scales and other sensitive equipment. Inter-changeable access ports (available separately) include solid panels, glove ports, iris ports, access doors, microscope bellows, and custom interface modules. An optional HEPA filter/fan unit provides quiet operation and low vibration. Each enclosure includes dual front doors and a bottomless design for convenient placement over equipment. An optional spill tray is available if a bottom section is required.
Terra Universal,
Anaheim, CA
www.terrauniversal.com
Cleanroom chairs
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This AM-series heavy-duty ergonomic chair is designed to help cleanroom personnel remain productive throughout the day. The chair features a sculpted seat, a taller and wider backrest, and controls for easy adjustability. It features a waterfall front for improved circulation. The seat is upholstered with molded foam cushioning and has an internal seat-board bumper guard for added resistance to wear. The chair features chrome-plated metal parts and is available with performance packages for ISO Class 3 through Class 6 cleanroom applications.
BioFit Engineered Products
Waterville, OH
www.biofit.com
Ergonomic cart
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The ergonomic Z-Cart turns a laptop computer into a mobile computer workstation. Compact, stable and maneuverable, it can be adjusted to the user's height, promoting natural posture while standing or sitting. The cart comes with a locking work surface that secures the computer against theft, slippage and spills. The retractable, full-size keyboard tray includes a bi-directional sliding mouse tray to accommodate right- and left-handed users. Other standard features include a built-in mouse holder and a recoil lanyard that keeps a power cord off the floor.
JACO Inc.
Franklin, MA
www.j-mobility.com
Adjustable workbench
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The Align workbench can be adjusted to accommodate workers with the appropriate work surface height. It is designed for repair, testing and assembly of mechanical and electrical products and components, packaging, calibration and R&D development. The work surface aligns with the worker's optimal reach zone to reduce fatigue, stress and potential injury, and is designed to optimize production throughput. Height can be adjusted with a motorized lift, hand crank, or slide leg platform. The workbench supports up to 1,000 lbs., and is available in a variety of surfaces, including plastic laminate, chemical resistant and static dissipative.
Lista International Corp.
Holliston, MA
www.listaintl.com
Flexible lab furniture
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The Metro Starsys system line of mobile, modular lab furniture is designed to accommodate changing lab requirements. The line facilitates fast, agile lab configuration by putting the power to reconfigure in the hands of the lab professional. In minutes, according to the company, a lab technician can reconfigure the mobile workcenter to support new research protocol, changing technology requirements or increased throughput. This system features an aluminum and steel-framed substructure, with advanced polymers forming the outer skin. The design features easy-to-clean, chemical-resistant surfaces that will not chip, peel, dent or corrode over time.
InterMetro Industries
Wilkes-Barre, PA
www.metro.com
Cleanroom workstation
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The DownDraft workstation is useful for soldering or chemical processing that releases noxious fumes because its 1,200 CFM blower draws contaminants downward and away from the operator. A purification filter incorporating bonded activated charcoal adsorbs organic vapors to allow safe exhaust release, and a final HEPA filter helps meet cleanroom particle requirements. Benchtops are cleanroom-grade white laminate fused on all sides to prevent particle sloughing.
Terra Universal
Anaheim, CA
www.terrauniversal.com
Controlled-environment furniture
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This variety of controlled-environment furniture can outfit a cleanroom with workstations, chairs, desks, benches and shelving. All items are available in various construction materials, including stainless steel, laminate, cold-rolled steel and polypropylene. A variety of finishes, including polished, electro-polished, powder-coated and painted, are available.
Ultrapure Technology
Suwanee, GA
www.ultrapuretechnology.com
Etch system
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This porous Si Etch system incorporates zero-surface infringement on a substrate. The design uses pneumatic bladders for sealing the perimeter of the substrate during chemical processing, while increasing the surface area and yields. The etch system cabinet is constructed of FM 4910-compliant PVC-C and incorporates a dual-chamber etch cell with an integral chemical recirculation sparger located on the bottom of each chamber. After completing an etch cycle, the chemical is drained into a reclaim reservoir for reuse.
Rinsing is performed by high-volume fill and side-wall DI water spray nozzles that are capable of being adjusted to ensure complete rinsing of the etch chambers. The etch cell and wafer cathode assembly accommodate 100, 150, 200, and 300-mm single substrates, and pieces of each size wafer with the optional substrate holder. The etch solution is constantly recirculated, filtered and temperature-controlled to maintain cleanliness and etch repeatability.
Wafer Process Systems
San Jose, CA
www.waferprocess.com
Dust-containment cabinets
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The series 1532 inflow dust-containment cabinets are constructed of painted steel for compatibility with typical cleanroom environments, and are considered a solution for mailroom protection, hazardous materials and biological safety applications. With the blower located on top of the unit, the system draws air into a pair of wall-mounted filters to be filtered and discharged back into the workspace. The HEPA filter system consists of two parts—the absolute HEPA filter and a flexible duct to form a modular component.
Clean Air Products
Minneapolis, MN
www.cleanairproducts.com
Stand-alone cabinets
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Series 9000 cabinets are designed with flexibility and space efficiency in mind, working as stand-alone units or as pedestal-based workbenches when combined with the company's workbenches. A variety of cabinet configurations and five different heights are available. Optional drawer partitions and dividers can be used to create custom drawer interiors. Cabinets have a 150-pound capacity and come with a central lock and two keys.
Arlink
Burlington, Ontario
www.arlink.com
Framework system
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The GATORJAW framework system makes it easy to build with industrial-strength aluminum rather than a T-slot. The fasteners are self-tightening—no nuts, drilling, tapping or welding. You can add attachments any place along all four sides of the extrusion to create enclosures, workstations, laminar flow units, carts, barriers and more.
Simplex Isolation Systems
Fontana, CA
www.simplexisolationsystem.com
Sterile alcohols
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The TexShield Sterile 70 percent Isopropyl Alcohol and Sterile 70 percent Isopropyl Alcohol with water for injection (WFI) are easy and safe to use, cost effective, and maintain their sterility assurance level throughout prolonged normal use. The bottles are recyclable and the contents can be completely dispensed. The TexShield alcohol products are all packaged using the SteriShield Delivery System (patent pending). Packaged in one-liter and five-liter containers, the sterile alcohols are useful for surface cleaning, cleaning gloved hands in sterile suites, and wiping down items for pass through into a controlled environment.
ITW Texwipe
Mahwah, NJ
www.itwtexwipe.com
Point-of-use cleaning solutions
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The One Solution Vesphene IIst system and One Solution LpH st system are complete, efficient, point-of-use cleaning solutions for critical environments. Each system includes a pre-measured, single-use formulation of Vesphene IIst or LpH st and one gallon of water for injection (WFI), double-bagged with linear tear strips for easy introduction into the cleanroom core. The systems are irradiated to a 10-6 sterility assurance level.
Steris Corporation
Mentor, OH
www.steris.com
Sterile alcohol solution
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The CiDehol ST 70 percent IPA solution is made to meet water for injection (WFI) specifications with regard to endotoxin levels. Endotoxin testing is performed on all lots of finished sterile alcohol products and results are listed on the company's lot-specific document shipped with each case. The sterile alcohol solutions are filtered to 0.22 µm, bottled and double-bagged in a Class 100 cleanroom, then gamma-irradiated and tested for sterility.
Decon Labs Inc.
Bryn Mawr, PA
www.deconlabs.com
Sterilizing solution
The SimpleMix system is a sealed multi-chamber, handheld container that, when activated, mixes a sterilizing solution with USP water for injection (WFI) quality water. The side chamber contains the sterile concentrate disinfectant or sporicide, and the larger chamber holds the sterile UPS WFI-quality water. The system is available in either the 16-ounce trigger sprayer or a gallon-sized container for larger uses. All SimpleMix products are manufactured in a Class 100 GMP filling operation, filtered at 0.2 micron, double-bag packed per bottle, gamma irradiated, and lot sterility tested per current USP compendium.
Veltek Associates Inc.
Malvern, PA
www.sterile.com
Coated lab coats and coveralls
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Coated Polypropy-lene Lab Coats and Coveralls are a value alternative to Tyvek and SMMS products. The product is 28 g/m2 of spunbond poly-propylene with an outside layer of 12 g/m2 of polyethylene. This provides for a total basis weight of 40 g/m2; offering a durable fabric with a liquid barrier while keeping operator comfort a priority. These products are manufactured and packaged in a cleanroom environment and are suitable for use in Class 1,000 (M4.5) and above.
Value-Tek
Phoenix, AZ
www.value-tek.com
SDS coveralls
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Static Decay System (SDS) for paintroom/cleanroom coveralls is a proprietary ESD system developed with a unique new seam design. Cover-alls with the SDS system are used throughout the paintroom facility. The coveralls conduct a charge from any point of the garment to your grounding system.
American Protective Clothing
Lorain, OH
apccleanroom@centurytel.net
Circle No. 262
C3 fabric
The Nano C3 is a new C3 fabric upgraded with improved ESD and Nano-Seal technology. Manufactured domestically, it uses the same proven filament polyester yarns that are in the current C3. The new fabric contains a new ESD yarn that yields improved surface resistivity results according to AATCC 76. The addition of the Nano-Seal technology changes the fabric at the molecular level to significantly reduce particulation. Aesthetics and breathability are not affected by the addition of the Nano-Seal technology.
Burlington Barrier Products
Greensboro, NC
www.burlingtonbarrier.com
Protective wear
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VR Protective Wear for use in contamination control and cleanroom environments is designed for handling chemicals and other hazardous materials. The protective wear includes aprons, sleeves, gowns, gloves, boots and shoecovers, and is made of a strong, lightweight and chemical-resistant 4-mil and 6-mil impervious polyolefin material. The garments have been clinically tested to offer superior resistance against chemicals such as nitric, sulfuric, hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. Engineered to provide affordable limited-use protection, VR has been developed to replace conventional protective garments made out of vinyl and other traditional materials. The company's products meet Class 100 cleanroom specifications.
PolyConversions Inc.
Rantoul, IL
www.polyconversions.com
Garment program
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In-stock garments use industry-recognized fabrics and provide installation in two weeks or less with the company's automatic ordering level, which helps avoid long lead times. A wide variety of sizes and industry-accepted styles are stocked.
Prudential Cleanroom Services
Irvine, CA
www.pcs-clean.com
Vinyl coat aprons
Vinyl coat aprons come in a variety of thicknesses and designs to satisfy a broad range of splash and contamination control requirements. A generous range of sizes, lengths and closures ensures a secure, comfortable fit for all workers. A choice of 6- or 8-mil thicknesses, along with plain or sealed edges, full-closure backs and elastic cuffs is available. The aprons are available cleaned and individually polybagged in a Class 100 (ISO 5) environment. Aprons are part of a complete apparel system, which includes solvent- and acid-resistant gloves, thin-gauge low-lint and cut-resistant knitted liners, vinyl sleeves and a range of thin-mil gloves in latex, vinyl, nitrile and polychloroprene.
Ansell Healthcare
Red Bank, NJ
www.ansellpro.com/ce
Launderable coveralls
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Polyester launderable coveralls are precision sewn with cleanroom specifications and materials. Its features include CR-ESD knit cuffs, a poly-coil zipper under a snap storm fly and a mandarin collar. The coveralls also have an external snap found on the back for boot hold or storage as well as adjustable ankle cuffs with snaps. The coveralls, available in white and navy, have fabric options, which include Integrity 1800 and Burlington C-3.
Cintas Cleanroom Resources
Cincinnati, OH
www.CintasCleanroom.com
Cleanroom/paintroom fabrics
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New fabrics for both cleanroom and paintroom applications offer both particle filtration and comfort. Perimeter CR 100 is the company's workhorse fabric for cleanrooms Class 100 and up. If more filtration is needed, the company also offers Perimeter CR 10, a calendered fabric with better than 95 percent filtration of 0.3-micron particles. For paintspray or powder-coating operations, the company offers Perimeter SB, which offers protection of the product from person contamination and offers protection of the person from paint and powder.
Milliken & Co.
Spartanburg, SC
www.milliken.com
Reusable protective apparel
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The WKEP 3000 is woven from 100 percent filament polyester yarn with carbon fibers laced into a stripe throughout the material. The result is a durable fabric that repels fluids, prevents particulation and dissipates static electricity. The company's entire line of Ultima reusable apparel is available with the new WKEP 3000 material in white or navy. The WK Builder is a soft-to-the-touch micro-denier material used to make comfortable undergarment pant and top sets in navy or burgundy.
White Knight Engineered Products Inc.
Charlotte, NC
www.wkep.com
Cleanroom garment document
A white paper entitled The Dirty Dozen: 12 ways to cut the expense, time and stress of cleanroom garment programs addresses issues frequently encountered with cleanroom garment programs. This complementary information can be downloaded from the company's Web site. The company audits cleanroom garment systems and implements efficient, hassle-free gowning programs that are simple and straightforward to manage, for wearers to comply with, and for laundries to service.
CleanFit Systems
Portland, OR
www.cleanfitsystems.com
Coveralls
The company's coveralls are made of breathable, comfortable polypropylene fabric, which is suitable for any workplace. The attached hood and zipper increase the level of comfort and reduce the risk of exposure to contaminated toxic fluids and particles.
ConGuard
Sarasota, FL
www.conguard.com
Vertical-flow hardwall cleanrooms
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The series 558 vertical-flow hardwall modular cleanrooms are available in Class 100 to Class 10 and combine functionality and flexibility. Manufactured from heavy-duty 16 gauge cold-rolled steel with a white baked enamel or powder coat finish, each unit includes full-ceiling HEPA filter coverage with plenum sections that provide uniform filtered laminar air flow to clean areas, with filtered air going to 100 percent of the available ceiling surface. It uses sidewall blower cabinets to blow air into the upper filter plenums. Sidewall panels contain start/disconnect, wall receptacles, pre-filters and optional cooling coils. Units may be serviced from inside or outside the cleanroom.
Clean Air Products
Minneapolis, MN
www.cleanairproducts.com
Wall, ceiling accessories
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This expanded wall and ceiling system requires no additional machining of the aluminum profiles. Both the new wall and ceiling profiles feature closed 10-mm slots; and new spring-loaded clamping profiles are used for easy, economical attachment of surface elements and other accessories. A T-connector for the profile allows users to create closed frames that are simple to disassemble and reuse or reconfigure. Rooms can be designed to accommodate customer-specific requirements regarding fire protection class, noise protection and cleaning options. Studs on the ceiling profiles are provided for surface elements, lights, sprinklers, ventilation systems or fan filter units for cleanrooms. Smooth profile surfaces and internal (concealed) connection technology fulfill typical cleanroom criteria (ISO 2 purity class).
Bosch Rexroth
Buchanan, MI
www.boschrexroth-us.com
Aluminum frame system
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The VFCS-3 rigid wall clear acrylic cleanroom system has panels made from anodized aluminum frames with a latching system that makes it simple to attach panels and offers a quick, economical cleanroom set up. The Liberty MAX8000 fan filter module delivers 99.99 percent efficiency on particles of 0.3 micron and larger with a standard HEPA filter. The system can be fully operational in a few hours and supports Class 100, 1,000, 10,000 and 100,000. Available in 4x4x8 to 18x28x8, or in custom configurations.
Liberty Industries Inc.
East Berlin, CT
www.liberty-ind.com
Steel-paneled cleanroom
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The company's modular cleanrooms, Precis-Air (HVAC) systems and key components such as hermetic doors, windows, covings and pressurization units are compliant and even exceed the latest regulatory industry standards and guidelines. The cleanrooms feature a sleek surface finish with steel panels engineered to withstand the weight of air treatment system and maintenance personnel. Services are built into each panel for easy connection and quick installation. Pre-engineered, pre-assembled, pre-started, factory tested and validation ready, the Precis-Air system is available in a closed or open architecture format. Two systems are available: one central system for all cleanrooms and one independent system that offers better environmental control to avoid cross-contamination.
Mecart Inc.
Québec, Canada
www.mecart.com
Enclosure system
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AirLock enclosure systems combine modularity and structural integrity to achieve a broad range of cleanroom configurations, design flexibility and environmental adaptability. They can be easily erected, relocated or reconfigured as the user's conditions dictate.
RPA
Corona, CA
www.rpaproducts.com
Sterile compounding
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The Microsphere is a microenvironment designed to meet USP requirements for sterile compounding. There is no cleanroom to build and no gowning required. It is ISO Class 4 and meets USP 797 and other regulations. The physical barrier between products and operators makes it safe to use. The microenvironment is easy to operate, install and maintain and can be custom-designed.
IsoTech Design
St. Laurent, Québec
www.isotechdesign.com
Modular enclosures
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AirLock modular enclosures latch together, making it easy to add, change or reconfigure as requirements evolve. Specialized wall materials—from soft vinyl (including non- outgassing and anti-static) to durable lightweight aluminum panels—are available. AirLock's modular design allows cleanrooms to be assembled, expanded, customized or disassembled quickly and easily with a few simple tools.
Simplex Isolation Systems Inc.
Fontana, CA
www.simplexisolationsystem.com
Explosion-proof cleanrooms
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These softwall and modular hardwall cleanrooms are built to Class 1, Division 1 specifications for use in the presence of potentially explosive or flammable dusts and fumes. Constructed of epoxy-painted steel and stainless steel, they are available in Class 10 to Class 100,000. Custom sizes and specifications can be built upon request.
Atmos-Tech Industries
Ocean, NJ
www.atmostech.com
Hardwall cleanroom systems
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The Legend cleanroom systems are adaptable hardwall cleanroom systems that offer immediate solutions that get you up and running right away, while still allowing expansion and modification whenever your needs change. The cleanroom systems are designed as Once Thru or Recirculation Types, or modular walls can be incorporated into the design of your host building.
Clean Rooms International Inc.
Grand Rapids, MI
www.cleanroomsint.com
Anodized hardwall cleanroom
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These hardwall cleanrooms feature anodized aluminum framework with clear acrylic panes. The doors are storefront type, with positive seal gaskets and sweeps. The JazzFM fan filter module is used to supply HEPA filtered air to the unit. Cleanroom light fixtures illuminate the environment. Each enclosure is fully assembled and tested in the company's plant prior to knockdown and crating. The products are available in virtually any size and with a large array of options such as integrated pass throughs and ULPA filtration to meet your cleanliness needs.
Ultrapure Technology Inc.
Suwanee, GA
www.ultrapuretechnology.com
Hardwall cleanrooms
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The company's Six-Step Solution allows customers to focus on maximizing functionality within the cleanroom, while minimizing costs. Specializing in designing/installing small to mid-sized cleanrooms and labs for both new projects and renovating existing rooms/facilities, the company is involved from the beginning to end of the project. LM Air Technology Inc.
Rahway, NJ
www.lmairtech.com
Pre-fabricated cleanrooms
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The company's 2-inch and 3-inch thick pre-fabricated modular cleanroom systems provide flexible hardwall solutions for most cleanroom configurations and classes. The framing system interlocks with 2- or 3-inch thick modular panels and also acts as an electrical/data raceway. The non-progressive modular system is made to be integrated with existing construction, new free-standing construction or the company's premium “storage-style” structural frame. Both systems are designed to be easily fitted with all other cleanroom elements and are easily expanded and modified.
American Cleanroom Systems
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
www.americancleanrooms.com
Modular wall panels
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Designers, builders and end user clientele can order pre-fabricated, modular wall panels with factory-installed items, including sealed, double-pane windows, low-level air return grills, flush-mounted duplex electrical receptacles, telecom/ data ports, fire alarm pull station boxes and a variety of optional features that will enable the user to customize a cleanroom for specific process requirements.
Clean Air Technology Inc.
Canton, MI
www.cleanairtechnology.com
Powder containment room
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This Powder Containment Room combines many benefits of a modular cleanroom and a biological safety cabinet, including a filtration system that maintains cleanliness levels to Class 100 (ISO 5). Its large size accommodates one or many people and allows easy access to bulky packaging or analytical instrumentation. A versatile CleanZone bio-protection system draws air away from personnel into HEPA or ULPA filters positioned directly behind a processing zone. Filtered air is forced into the room from a roof-mounted external manifold into ceiling filters above the work area. This localized circulation of filtered air protects personnel against harmful powders while providing a continuous wash of filtered air to the processing zone to ensure product integrity.
Terra Universal
Anaheim, CA
www.terrauniversal.com