Learn More: Air Conditioning Alternatives

The ideal option would be to use an existing heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system because it provides the most effective and economical means to cool your modular cleanroom. The fan/filter units (FFUs) can draw air from the surrounding room, passing conditioned air directly into the cleanroom without the need for ducting or special exhaust systems. The existing ducting can also be connected directly to each FFU using a connection kit.

Consult with an HVAC contractor to determine if the existing system has the necessary spare capacity to adequately cool the cleanroom. The additional load on an existing HVAC system can be calculated by adding together the heat dissipated by the specified number of FFUs (@ approximately 1,000 BTU/hour/unit) and the heat generated by equipment and personnel inside the cleanroom.

Split A/C System

If the existing HVAC system cannot be used, the addition of a split HVAC system would be the next best option. A split system moves the heat-generating compressor outside of the facility, eliminating noise and heat build-up in the area outside of the cleanroom.

For these applications, Terra will work with a local HVAC contractor to provide a split-type system that meets your cooling requirements and local codes. Terra will provide the ducting and recirculation system that routes exhaust air to the compressor and delivers cool air to the ceiling FFUs in ample volume to maintain the desired air velocity inside the enclosure.

Environmental Stability System

For applications requiring strict temperature and humidity control (where the above options are not suitable), Terra can provide custom HVAC modules that operate similarly to an environmental test chamber, adjusting the supply air's temperature and humidity to maintain specific conditions within tight tolerances. This type of system is particularly useful when the environment immediately outside of the cleanroom experiences significant fluctuations in temperature or relative humidity.

Typical Applications: Pharmaceutical or Medical Device Manufacturing, GMP Facilities, Testing Laboratories, High Humidity Environments

For best performance, these modules should be paired with an insulated hardwall cleanroom.

Standard Cleanroom A/C Module

The modules below provide economical cooling in facilities without adequate HVAC. Based on the cleanroom size, desired temperature, and heat dissipated inside the cleanroom, Terra will configure the appropriate number of units.

In these applications, heat removed from the cleanroom is vented into the room outside. In the case of large cleanrooms and/or significant heat-generating equipment, this vented heat will raise the ambient temperature and place greater load on the A/C modules as well as any existing HVAC system. For best performance, heat generated by the module should be exhausted outside of the facility.