Air Shower Pass Box: Working Principle, Functions, and Applications
A Comprehensive Guide to Structure, Features, Applications, and Maintenance
I. Definition and Overview
An Air Shower Pass Box (also known as Air Shower Transfer Hatch) is a specialized cleanroom equipment designed for the transfer of materials between areas of different cleanliness levels. It integrates an air shower system and a pass box to remove particulate contamination from goods before entering a clean zone. Key terminology:
· HEPA = High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter
· ULPA = Ultra-Low Penetration Air filter
· GMP = Good Manufacturing Practice
· ISO 14644 = International standard for cleanrooms and associated controlled environments
II. Working Principle
The Air Shower Pass Box operates by using high-velocity filtered air to remove dust, microorganisms, and particles from the surface of materials being transferred.
· Air Circulation: Internal air is recirculated through a filtration system to maintain high cleanliness.
· Filtration System: Equipped with HEPA or ULPA filters to achieve filtration efficiency of ≥99.99% for particles ≥0.3µm.
· Anti-Cross-Contamination: Electronic or mechanical interlocking prevents both doors from opening simultaneously.
· Automatic Control: Programmable logic controllers (PLC) manage air shower duration, airflow velocity, and door locks.
III. Main Functions
· Minimizes cross-contamination between cleanroom zones.
· Ensures compliance with GMP and ISO 14644 cleanroom standards.
· Maintains stable cleanroom conditions.
· Improves production efficiency by integrating material transfer and decontamination.
IV. Structural Features and Materials
Air Shower Pass Boxes are manufactured with robust materials to ensure durability and hygiene:
· Stainless Steel (SS304 or SS316L) – corrosion-resistant, smooth finish for easy cleaning.
· Powder-Coated Cold-Rolled Steel – economical and durable.
· Aluminum Alloy – lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
· Tempered Glass – for observation windows.
V. Classification and Technical Parameters
Common configurations include single-side air shower pass boxes, double-side pass boxes, and custom sizes for large equipment.
Model | Air Volume (m³/h) | Power (W) | Filter Grade | Internal Dimensions (mm) |
ASP-1000 | 1000 | 550 | G4 + H13 HEPA | 600 × 600 × 600 |
ASP-1500 | 1500 | 750 | G4 + H14 HEPA | 800 × 800 × 800 |
ASP-2000 | 2000 | 1100 | G4 + U15 ULPA | 1000 × 1000 × 1000 |
VI. Typical Application Industries
· Cleanroom Engineering
· Medical Engineering
· Construction Engineering
· Laboratory Engineering & Equipment
· Medical Devices & Equipment
· Environmental Protection Technology
· Biotechnology
VII. Installation and Usage Notes
· Install according to ISO 14644-1: Cleanrooms and associated controlled environments requirements.
· Ensure proper grounding for electrical safety.
· Maintain unobstructed airflow paths.
· Follow GMP protocols during operation.
VIII. Maintenance and Care
· Clean internal surfaces daily with approved disinfectants.
· Replace pre-filters every 3–6 months, HEPA/ULPA filters every 12–18 months.
· Calibrate sensors and control systems annually.
· Inspect interlocking systems regularly.