Sliding Door Air Shower: Principles, Functions, and Applications
A Comprehensive Guide for Cleanroom Engineering, Laboratories, and Controlled Environments
I. Definition and Overview
A Sliding Door Air Shower is a specialized cleanroom entry system designed to remove particulate contaminants from personnel or materials entering controlled environments. It uses high-velocity, HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) or ULPA (Ultra-Low Penetration Air) filtered airflow to minimize contamination, ensuring a sterile and particle-free transition between areas.
Sliding door air showers are critical in facilities adhering to international standards such as ISO 14644-1: Cleanrooms and associated controlled environments and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice).
II. Working Principle
The sliding door air shower operates using a controlled airflow and filtration system:
- Air Circulation:
- Filtration System:
- Cross-Contamination Prevention:
- Automatic Control System:
III. Main Functions and Roles
- Removes particulate contaminants from personnel and materials before entering controlled environments.
- Reduces cross-contamination and protects sensitive processes.
- Ensures compliance with global cleanroom standards (ISO 14644, GMP, FDA).
- Enhances operational efficiency and safety in critical industries.
IV. Structural Features and Materials
Sliding door air showers are built from durable, corrosion-resistant materials:
- Stainless Steel (SS304/SS316):
- Powder-Coated Steel:
- Aluminum Alloy:
- Tempered Glass Panels:
- Automatic Sliding Doors:
V. Classification and Technical Parameters
Model | Airflow Velocity | Power | Filter Efficiency | Dimensions (W×D×H) | Door Type |
AS-1000 | 20–25 m/s | 1.2 kW | HEPA ≥99.99% @ 0.3μm | 1200×1200×2200 mm | Sliding |
AS-1500 | 20–25 m/s | 1.5 kW | ULPA ≥99.999% @ 0.12μm | 1500×1500×2200 mm | Sliding |
VI. Typical Application Industries
- Cleanroom Engineering & Construction
- Medical and Hospital Engineering
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Laboratory Equipment & Research Facilities
- Environmental Science & Green Technology
- Semiconductors, Electronics, and Precision Manufacturing
VII. Installation and Usage Considerations
- Install in ISO-classified environments in compliance with ISO 14644-1
- Follow GMP
- Ensure proper interlock functionality to prevent both doors from opening simultaneously.
- Train operators on correct entry and exit procedures for contamination control.
VIII. Maintenance and Care
- Regular Cleaning:
- Filter Replacement:
- Calibration:
- Inspection:
- Disinfection:
IX. Conclusion
Sliding door air showers are essential equipment for controlled environments, providing effective contamination control and ensuring compliance with international cleanroom standards. Their application in engineering, biotechnology, healthcare, and electronics industries safeguards products, processes, and personnel while improving operational efficiency and quality assurance.