Designing a Sandwich Panel Room: Key Considerations for Clean Rooms from Jack Harry's blog

When it comes to designing a clean room for sensitive manufacturing or research processes, one crucial aspect to consider is the type of wall panels used in the construction. Clean room wall panels play a critical role in contamination control and maintaining a sterile environment, making them an essential component of any clean room design.

Choice of Wall Panels

One popular choice for clean room wall panels is sandwich panels, which consist of two outer layers of rigid material enclosing a core material that provides insulation and structural support. When designing a clean room with sandwich panel room, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to ensure optimal performance and contamination control.

Material Selection

First and foremost, it's important to select the right materials for the sandwich panels. The outer layers should be made of non-porous, easy-to-clean materials such as stainless steel, fiberglass, or PVC. These materials are durable, resistant to moisture and chemicals, and can withstand regular cleaning and disinfection processes without deteriorating. The core material should provide thermal insulation and structural support while also being lightweight and non-shedding to prevent contamination.

Panel Thickness and Size

In addition to the materials used, the size and thickness of the sandwich panels should also be carefully considered. Thicker panels provide better insulation and structural integrity, but they can also be more challenging to install and maintain. It's important to strike a balance between thickness and ease of installation to ensure that the clean room walls are robust and durable while also being practical and cost-effective.

Joint Systems

Another important consideration when designing a clean room with sandwich panels is the type of joint system used to connect the panels. A tight, seamless joint system is essential for preventing air leakage and dust accumulation between panels, which can compromise the clean room's sterility. There are several joint systems available, including tongue-and-groove, overlapping edges, and flush joints, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. The joint system should be selected based on the clean room's specific requirements for air tightness, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal.

Layout and Configuration

Furthermore, the layout and configuration of the sandwich panels in the clean room should be carefully planned to minimize the number of joints and seams where contaminants can accumulate. The panels should be installed in a way that minimizes gaps and overlaps, creating a smooth, continuous surface that is easy to clean and disinfect. Additionally, any penetrations or openings in the panels, such as doors, windows, or utility channels, should be properly sealed and integrated into the wall system to prevent contamination ingress.

Conclusion

Overall, designing a clean room with sandwich panels requires careful consideration of materials, thickness, joint systems, and panel layout to ensure optimal contamination control and a sterile environment. By selecting the right materials and configuration for the sandwich panels, clean room designers can create a robust and reliable wall system that meets the stringent requirements of clean room environments.